From Beer to Bratwurst – California’s Oktoberfest Has It All!
Welcome to California Oktoberfest
California celebrates Oktoberfest annually with over 100 events ranging from 1 day festivals to weeklong and month-long seasons. Oktoberfest in California offers many ways to celebrate Bavarian culture. The Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest is the largest in Southern California. Visitors can enjoy traditional German food, beer, and contests. Other Oktoberfest events in California include Fairplex Oktoberfest, Wurstküche Venice’s festival, and Old World Huntington Beach Oktoberfest. Each festival provides a chance to experience German traditions in different parts of the state.
Save the Dates
September to November, 2026 across various locations in California.
Oktoberfest Events in California
These are the Oktoberfest events happening throughout California, where locals and visitors can enjoy German traditions, lively festivities, and great food.
1- Oktoberfest at Fairplex
Dates: October 2–24, 2026 (Tentative)
Location: Fairplex, McKinley Ave.
Timings: 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
The Fairplex hosts Oktoberfest every Friday and Saturday in October. It is home to the Los Angeles County Fair. This 21-plus event features Bavarian music, beer, and chicken dancing. You can enjoy bratwurst, knockwurst, and sweet corn. You can drink German beer. The event includes DJs, oompah bands, and the Das Kär Show. The show features over 40 Volkswagen Beetles and other German-made cars.
2- Oktoberfest at Wurstküche Venice
Dates: September 25 to October 10, 2026
Location: Wurstküche Venice
Timings: 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
This Venice gastropub hosts a Bavarian celebration over three weekends. The event starts on September 28. It features live music, lederhosen, yodeling, and food. You can try a rattlesnake and rabbit hot link topped with onions and peppers. You can also enjoy German and Belgian beers on draft. The $50 entry ticket includes a Wurstküche beer mug. The first fill-up is included.
3- Old World Huntington Beach Oktoberfest
Dates: September 6 to November 8, 2026
Location: Old World Village
Timings: 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Old World Oktoberfest in Orange County runs every Wednesday to Sunday. It features “Shot Girls,” dancers, and live oompah and German bands. The event kicks off with the famous wiener dog races. The races continue throughout the event. Friday and Saturday nights are for the 21-plus crowd with a cover charge. Families can enjoy the event on Saturday afternoons and other nights. Entry is free on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
4- San Gabriel Dumpling & Beer Fest
Dates: October 2, 2026
Location: San Gabriel Mission Playhouse
Timings: 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
A unique take on Oktoberfest is the San Gabriel Dumpling & Beer Fest. It uses dumplings instead of pretzels. The San Gabriel Mission Playhouse serves as the venue. From 6 to 10 p.m., it comes with a beer tasting wristband that grants unlimited access to craft beer. A selection of dumplings from food trucks are available to go with your drinks. Children’s art and craft stations are also available at the event.
5- Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest:
Dates: Weekends from September 19 to November 25, 2026
Location: Big Bear Lake Convention Center
Timings:
- Saturdays: 1:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
- Sundays: 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
The annual Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest is a top festival in Southern California. This event focuses on family, friendship, and togetherness. Visitors can enjoy German food and traditional German beer while celebrating in the beautiful surroundings of Big Bear Lake.
California Oktoberfest Ticket Information
There are different ticket options in California Oktoberfest. The ticket prices usually range from $10 to $50. It mainly depends on the event and day. You can even purchase tickets both online or at the event.
FAQs
What is the dress code for California Oktoberfest?
There is no need to follow any dress code strictly. It would be a great idea to wear a traditional German tracht.
Is there a first aid booth at California Oktoberfest?
Many Oktoberfest events in California are equipped with First Aid booths to ensure the safety and well being of attendees.
Where is the best place to go to Oktoberfest in California?
There are many Oktoberfest celebrations held in California but one of the best top 10 Oktoberfest celebrations goes to Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest.