Oktoberfest Celebrations in the Finger Lakes
Oktoberfest is a world-famous beer festival that originated in Munich, Germany. Its origins date back to October 12, 1810, when Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I) of Bavaria married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The royal wedding celebration was held on the fields outside the city gates of Munich and included horse races, which were a popular entertainment in Bavaria at the time.
The event was so successful and well-received by the people of Munich that it was decided to repeat it the following year, with additional attractions and amusements. This annual celebration gradually evolved into what we now know as Oktoberfest. Over the years, the focus of the festival shifted from horse races to a more general celebration of Bavarian culture, featuring beer, food, music, and traditional Bavarian clothing.
Oktoberfest celebrations migrated to America in the 19th Century when German immigrants settled in communities across the country. Today, Oktoberfest celebrations can be enjoyed in the Finger Lakes between mid-September and early October, and they often feature live music, beer tastings, food vendors and activities in the spirit of the original Munich-based celebration. Following is a can’t miss list of Oktoberfest celebrations for visiting lovers of beer and German culture.
OktoberFest at Lincoln Hill Farm
Saturday, September 16th 1pm – 6pm
Party like you are wearing lederhosen in Munich (If you have lederhosen or a dirndl, we sure hope you wear them. Come out on Saturday, September 16th, from 1pm – 6pm and enjoy Oktoberfest on the Farm. Enjoy German-style with food, beer, music, a stein hoist contest, and some fun at Lincoln Hill Farms.
September 28, 29 & 30
Oktoberfest Dinner at Deer Run Winery
Friday, September 29th
A special four-course Oktoberfest meal to be served in our café.
Assorted beer and wine available for purchase. $55 per person includes gratuity and one glass of wine or beer per person
Oktoberfest at Bristol Mountain
Saturday and Sunday September 16 & 17
LIVE MUSIC | FOOD | DRINK | FUN
Friday, September 22, 2023 at 6 to 9 PM
At The Public Market
Oktoberfest 2023 at Brew & Brats at Arbor Hill
Weekend of October 14th & 15th
Saturday will include the Finger Lakes Alpine Band during the day, with a Walking June concert at night. We will have 2 stein holding competitions, along with specialty Oktoberfest beers, special menu items, & our ever-popular regular menu items! Come join the fun with us.
Sunday we will have the Finger Lakes Alpine Band again during the afternoon, food & beverages!
Free admission - we can't wait to see you!
October 15, 2023 @ 2 p.m. at New York Beer Project (Lockport Location)
Sure to delight all your senses, NYBP’s Oktoberfest is a party for the ages. So put on your lederhosen, start practicing “Ein Prosit!” and join us at this ultimate celebration of Good Beer, Good Food, and Good Times. PROST!
Webster, NY @Miracle Field of Greater Rochester!
Friday, September 15: 12pm-10:30pm & Saturday, September 16: 12pm-10:30pm
Live German Music; German Cuisine from Swan’s Market and Helmut’s Strudel of WNY. Beer and Wine by Cobblestone on Main. Tickets will be sold at the door for $5 from 12-3pm on Friday only and $10 at all other times. Children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. No pets are allowed.
Oktoberfest Celebration at Engine 14 Brewery
52 West Avenue Naples, NY
Time: 12 PM to 10 PM
Engine 14 presents an Oktoberfest celebration! Enjoy German inspired food from Keuka Trail Farm Market Mobile To Go starting at 12:00 pm, keg rolling & stein holding contests, beer pong tournament starting at 3:30, and music from Lucky Number from 6:00 - 9:00 pm.
Other Notable Beer-Focused Events:
Saturday, October 7
Greek Peak Mountain Resort welcomes back its snow enthusiasts to take advantage of the annual ski equipment swap and to celebrate 65 years of memories. Join us for a rockin’ fall festival, packed with vendors, crafters, and activities galore!
