While Oktoberfest kicks off mid-September in Munich, Californians don’t have to travel far to enjoy their fair share of brats, brews and polka. Warm up those stein-holding hands and check out these San Diego Oktoberfest celebrations.
Sept. 24: Encinitas Oktoberfest & Artisan Faire
Seeking a family- and pet-friendly fest? Head to Encinitas Oktoberfest & Artisan Faire on Sunday, Sept. 24, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. This free event will showcase local artisan products (nearly 200 vendors are expected), an authentic German beer garden with stage entertainment, an international food court and carnival rides. The event takes place on Mountain Vista Drive between Wandering and Rambling Roads; parking is available at Flora Vista Elementary School with shuttle service.
For more information: www.encinitasoktoberfest.com.
Sept. 29 to Oct. 1: La Mesa Oktoberfest Village
Since 1973, La Mesa Oktoberfest Village has offered a fun-filled all-ages festival brimming with beer gardens, German and international foods, kid’s activities, games, an artisan market, a keg-tapping ceremony and much more. From Sept. 29 to Oct. 1 (hours vary per day), the party is rounded out with live entertainment from the likes of Polka Party, Paging the 90s and tribute bands that pay homage to ABBA, Jimmy Buffet and The Beatles. A variety of nearby park-and-ride options are available to like San Diego Oktoberfest event.
Cost: Tickets start at $10 with a variety of VIP options available.
Tickets: events.com.
Sept. 29 to Oct. 1 and Oct. 6 to Oct. 8: El Cajon Oktoberfest
For two full weekends, German American Societies of San Diego hosts the El Cajon Oktoberfest. Fun for the whole family is on the agenda, with a huge selection of German foods and beers, fantastic live entertainment, a vendor fair, a kid’s zone and more. Plus, Guggenbach-Buam, a band straight from Baden-Württemberg, Germany, will take the stage.
Cost: Tickets start at $5, with a variety of packages available.
Tickets: events.germanclubsandiego.org.
Oct. 7: One Paseo Oktoberfest
During One Paseo’s annual Oktoberfest celebration, the 21-and-older crowd will gather Saturday, Oct. 7, from 2 to 6 p.m. Taking place on One Paseo’s lawn, behind Harland Brewing, the San Diego Oktoberfest party will feature craft beers and other libations, German-inspired bites from The Butchery, traditional lawn games, the crowning of Mr. and Mrs. Oktoberfest, live Hofbrauhaus music and much more.
Cost: $35, which includes 4-oz. pours.
Tickets: www.eventbrite.com.
Oct. 6 and Oct. 7: Ocean Beach Oktoberfest
Considered the wildest San Diego Oktoberfest celebration, the Ocean Beach event is set for Oct. 6 and Oct. 7 at the OB Pier Parking Lot. Party people (21 and older) are invited to sip and savor at the beer garden–brimming with classic German brews, wine and spirits–as well as enjoy live music, contests (like stein-holding and brat-eating!) and much more. Live acts include Afroman and Ballyhoo, among other top talents.
Cost: $10 for general admission (available at the gate); $49 for VIP (available online and includes entrance, a custom OB Oktoberfest mug filled with two beers, access to an exclusive VIP bar, upgraded restrooms and priority re-entry).
Tickets: www.eventbrite.com.