Raise a Glass at These Oktoberfest Celebrations in St. Louis

St. Louis is closer to Germany than you think. More than 165 years ago, German immigrants tapped into the natural landscape of St. Louis – flowing rivers, cool caves and all – to brew crisp, refreshing lagers.

Sparking a sudsy legacy, St. Louis became a beer town – and the ideal destination for boisterous Oktoberfest celebrations. From buzzing neighborhoods to iconic breweries, there’s a party – and a pint – for every kind of beer lover.

If you don’t want to designate a driver for these events, find a nearby place to stay for the night – or weekend!

City Nights: Oktoberfest

September 5

Strap on your lederhosen, lace up your dirndl and let City Museum knock your socks off – this seasonal edition of City Nights promises to be the most outrageous Oktoberfest celebration in St. Louis. With Übercool setting the mood, the 21 and older event invites imbibers to climb, slide, clamber and swing through the architectural playground in between sips. 4 Hands Brewing Co. will offer free samples of its hottest products, and there will be food, beer and cocktails available for purchase.

Oktoberfest at Grant’s Farm

September 5 to 7 and 12 to 14

Brats, brews and Bavarian grooves – Oktoberfest returns to Grant’s Farm this September, celebrating the attraction’s German heritage. Included with free general admission, the event will feature cold beer served in commemorative steins, alongside traditional German food, live German music, enthusiastic German dancing and access to the farm’s animals.

Saint Charles Oktoberfest

September 26 to 28

A toast to tradition! Touted as the ultimate celebration of German culture, Saint Charles Oktoberfest immerses attendees in a Bavarian wonderland brimming with traditional cuisine, varied beers and family-friendly activities. The legendary Obenheimer Express Band as well as the original Milwaukee Glockenspiel will perform throughout the weekend, along with other live entertainers. Over-the-top activities include a stein-hoisting competition and a wiener dog derby, making this an unmissable annual celebration.

Zootoberfest

October 4 to 5 and 10 to 12

On crisp fall days, head to the Saint Louis Zoo for a family-friendly Oktoberfest celebration. Enjoy the animals, exhibits and attractions alongside German-inflected food and drinks at the local landmark. There will also be special activities for kids such as arts and crafts.

Oktoberfest in Soulard

October 10 and 11

Home to the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and Biergarten, Soulard is the perfect location for Oktoberfest. The free, family-friendly event honors St. Louis’ German brewing traditions with multiple beer stands serving the best suds around town. Attendees can also enjoy traditional German food, a wine garden and live music.

Oktoberfest at Westport Plaza

October 17 and 18

Oktoberfest returns to Westport Plaza this October. With spirit straight out of Bavaria, the event will include upbeat music from Die Spitzbuam, The Wurst Bavarian Band and Übercool, complete with German dancers showing off their traditional moves. When you’re not clapping, stomping, dancing and singing, dig into German favorites such as bratwursts and pretzels, which pair best with a frothy brew. If you’re up for it, you can also test your drinking skills in one of the beer competitions. Whether you want to immerse yourself in the festivities or not, this is one party that you won’t want to miss!