Oktoberfest is officially underway in Philadelphia! Known as the largest folk and beer festival in Munich, Germany, Oktoberfest has spawned spinoffs celebrating Bavarian culture, music, and food. Dress to impress in your lederhosen, and party on at these local festivals.
Chestnut Hill Brewing Company Oktoberfest
Now through Oct. 18
Why limit the party to just one day? Chestnut Hill Brewing Company is celebrating Oktoberfest for four weeks. Upcoming activities include Oktoberfest Bingo and a Hammerschlagen Tournament (good luck nailing that). Capture the moment at the brewery’s selfie station and take home a special CH Festbier with a custom label.
Evil Genius Oktoberfest
Sept. 26
Head over to Evil Genius in Fishtown for beers and brats. This year’s celebration will have a new format by moving into the beer garden, with tickets limited to 100 guests. Attendees can expect EDM Oompah music, a stein-holding contest, four exclusive German-style beers, and a best-dressed contest.
South Street Oktoberfest
Sept. 26
South Street’s Fall Fest will be jam-packed with a different party spanning each block, including Oktoberfest. Brauhaus Schmitz is shutting down the 700 block of South Street for the event. The free event includes live music and a dozen German draft beers. If you opt for the VIP package, you get access to an exclusive buffet, seven beer tokens, swag, and access to private bathrooms. Be sure to check out the other festivals happening along the corridor that day.
Roxtoberfest
Oct. 3
Rock out on Ridge Avenue for the annual Roxtoberfest. The event will have three main stages for live entertainment. Test your strength with the beer stein competition (the kiddos can participate in a root beer stein contest). Attendees can also participate in a pet costume contest, scarecrow walk, pumpkin carving, and history tours.
23rd Street Armory Oktoberfest
Oct. 9-10
If you miss the big party on South Street, Brauhaus Schmitz is offering you another chance. The beer hall is once again taking over the 23rd Street Armory for the biggest Oktoberfest event in the city. Tiered tickets are available for Friday night, Satur-DAY, and Saturday night. Local German clubs will lead the opening ceremonies.
Ivy Hall Oktoberfest
Oct. 10
Spend the night at Ivy Hall dining on pig roast, drinking imported German beer, and dancing to folk music. A caricature artist will capture your likeness on the big night. As for the youth, kid-friendly games will be available, with the chance to win prizes.
GTV Almrausch Oktoberfest
Nov. 7
Cannstatter Volkfest-Verein is hosting a night of music and dancing. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. The Philly German Brass Band and the GTV Almrausch, one of the oldest Schuhplattler Vereine clubs in North America that’s keeping folk traditions alive, will perform.
