Updated Sept. 11, 2018
Raise a stein and celebrate Oktoberfest right here in Chicago! The autumn celebration of Oktoberfest, which originated with the Royal Wedding in Munich in 1810, is now observed all over the world. Ring in fall with traditional German music, cold beer, and samplings of Bavarian food at the city’s top locations. Prost!
Hofbräuhaus Chicago
5500 Park Place, Rosemont
Directly affiliated with Munich’s original Hofbräuhaus, this German microbrewery is celebrating Oktoberfest from Sept. 14 to Oct. 28. Guests will enjoy traditional Bavarian-German music and dancing, “Oktoberfestbier” brewed on site, and even keg-tapping ceremonies featuring celebrity guests. Plan a visit to experience delicious German dishes. For the full Oktoberfest experience, customers who visit on Friday and Saturday nights can participate in a stein-holding competition, also known as “Masskrugstemmen.” For more information and a list of daily menu specials, visit hbchicago.com.
Oaktoberfest
Downtown Oak Park (Marion Street and North Boulevard, south of Lake Street)
On Sept. 14 and 15, head to downtown Oak Park for the annual Oaktoberfest celebration. Admission is free, and guests will experience local and seasonal dishes, craft beer, and live music on both nights. Kids can also join the festivities on Saturday in the Kids’ Root Beer Garden, which will feature games and activities for the younger crowd. For the music lineup and more information, visit oaktoberfest.net.
St. Alphonsus Church
1429 W. Wellington Ave., Chicago
Founded by German immigrants in 1992, St. Alphonsus hosts an authentic Oktoberfest celebration and fundraiser every September. From Sept. 28-30, enjoy handmade bratwursts, craft beer, and live music. KinderFest will take place on Saturday and Sunday, and kids of all ages can participate in activities. Additionally, Craft Beer Night will be on both Friday and Saturday — participants will get to try 20 tastings from breweries around the country. For more information and a full schedule of events and performers, visit oktoberfestchicago.org or follow Oktoberfest Chicago on Facebook.
St. Benedict
2215 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago
Join St. Benedict in celebrating its 53rd annual Oktoberfest. The festival will be held Sept. 28-30, and guests will enjoy free admission. Set in the St. Benedict Courtyard, the event will feature live performers, authentic food, and, of course, beer. Bring the whole family and take part in carnival rides all weekend. For more information, visit stbensoktoberfest.com.
Chicago Botanic Garden
1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe
Join in the Garden’s Oktoberfest celebration at Autumn Brews on Oct. 11 and enjoy a seasonal tasting of select beers. Tickets purchased on or before Oct. 10 are $27 for members and $32 for non-members. The Garden encourages guests to buy tickets in advance, due to the event’s popularity. Guests will receive a wristband, tasting glass, and tasting sheet at check-in at the McGinley Pavilion. Purchase tickets online.
Want to take a vacation? Try…
Lake Geneva Oktoberfest
Downtown Lake Geneva
Entertainment, pony rides, a craft fair, free pumpkin giveaways, cider donuts, a beer tent, and more make the picturesque lake a great weekend getaway for Oktoberfest, Oct. 6-7. To make it extra special, check in at one of the local resorts like Grand Geneva for scenic views from your villa and spa treatments.
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