Oktoberfest Celebrations

Maryland and Washington, DC residents have numerous options to celebrate Oktoberfest locally. German beer and bratwurst will draw nearly one million people with German heritage to the area to celebrate the anniversary of the marriage of young Crown Prince (later King) Ludwig I and Princess Therese of Sachsen-Hildburghausen.  The original celebration took place on a huge meadow outside of the city walls of Munich on October 17, 1810. This festival lasted several days and was celebrated by the entire city.  Here are some local venues participating in the long-lasting German tradition.

Frederick’s Oktoberfest
Frederick, MD – October 3-4, 2015

Oktoberfest bier, bratwurst, dancing, live music and children’s activities to benefit Frederick County charities and local organizations. Location: Frederick Fairgrounds, 797 E Patrick St Frederick, MD 21705

Rotary Oktoberfest of Carroll County
Westminster, MD – October 3-4, 2015

More than 1000 people are expected at the third annual fundraising event held by the four Rotary Clubs of Carroll County. Enjoy family friendly activities and authentic German food, beer and live music. Plenty of contests including the Lederhosen & Dirndl competition.  Football tent ensures you don’t miss the action over the weekend. General admission is $5, with those wearing authentic German attire and children ages 10 and under free. Food menu will include bratwurst, knockwurst, sauerkraut and more traditional foods. Location: Danele Shipley Memorial Arena, 706 Agriculture Center Dr, Westminster, MD 21157

Das Best Oktoberfest
Baltimore, MD – October 10, 2015

Kick off beer week with this all you can taste Baltimore Oktoberfest. 60,000 generally attend this annual event. VIP admission is from noon to 2 PM and regular admission is from 2 PM to 6 PM. Over 150 local, domestic and international beers, wines and schnapps. German food, including sausages, available for purchase ala carte. Miss Oktoberfest competition and the Best Beer Belly contest. Limited parking is available for $10 per car. Regular admission tickets are $39 in advance. This provides you admission to the event, souvenir tasting glass and beer sampling. Location: M&T Stadium Parking Lot, Baltimore, Maryland.

Oktoberfest at the Kentlands
Gaithersburg, MD – October 11, 2015

The 23rd annual Oktoberfest will happen between noon and 5 PM. It covers Kentlands Village Green, the grounds of Kentlands Mansion, Main Street and Market Square. Locations are connected by trolley. Includes Beer Garden, Wine Terrace, German food and live music with dancers. Family friendly activities like horse-drawn wagon rides, pumpkin painting and more. Location: Kentlands Village Green, 320 Kent Square Rd , Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878

Maryland State Fall Samboree Oktoberfest
Frederick, MD – October 23-25, 2015

Activities include a kick off theme parade, wine tour, parade of flags, Friday lunch, Saturday breakfast, games and crafts, and even bingo.  Location: 797 East Patrick Street, Frederick, MD 21705