From Munich to the Show-Me State, Oktoberfest has traveled far, making a name for itself in Missouri. What began as a celebration for the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen turned into an annual Bavarian event with culture, music, food and – needless to say – beer.
History of Oktoberfest in Missouri
So how did this celebration make its way to Missouri? In the 1820s, German immigrants began settling in the Missouri River Valley. The area’s unique soil, climate and rolling hills made it ideal for viticulture. Because of this, settlers established vineyards and made their homes in communities that would later become Hermann, Augusta, Rhineland and others. While they started new lives in a new land, their German roots remained deeply ingrained, and traditions like Oktoberfest endured.
Celebrating Oktoberfest in Missouri
While most celebrations are associated with the Show-Me State’s traditionally German wine country, the festival has made its way across the state. Saint Charles, Kansas City, Jefferson City and Springfield are just some of the cities joining the celebration, so there are plenty of opportunities to partake in the revelry.
Oktoberfest in Hermann, Missouri
Every year, the picturesque town of Hermann honors its German heritage during the month of October. Combining tradition and local culture, Oktoberfest takes place each weekend and includes a full lineup of mouthwatering food, lively entertainment, shopping and a Biergarten (which hosts the popular “Stein Hoisting” competition!). Food stands offer a taste for all palates, from traditional bratwursts and sausage to delicious modern dishes. The town’s local breweries serve a diverse number of craft brews, and local wineries showcase Missouri-made wine. Enjoy live music from the Biergarten; and make sure to visit the Historic Festhalle, where you’ll hear the melodic melodies of Slovenian and Czech music. This festive, authentic experience is one you don’t want to miss.
St. Charles Oktoberfest
Attend the St. Charles Oktoberfest, a free-entry, family-friendly festival taking place at Frontier Park. The event typically takes place the last weekend of September. Highlights include traditional German dishes – bratwurst, pretzels, schnitzel and strudel – alongside a mix of imported German and local craft beers. Activities include: polka bands and folk dancing; “Raise the Stein,” “Brat Eating,” and “Wiener Takes All” contests; an antique car show; and more. Also, there’s a dedicated children’s section. Balloon artists, face paintings, a bounce house and pumpkin painting will keep the kids just as amused as the adults!
More Oktoberfest Events
- Kansas City Oktoberfest (early October): This larger-than-life celebration draws more than 16,000 merrymakers. Featuring authentic German-style beer, Bavarian and American fare, games and family-friendly activities, this event has transformed the Kansas City area into “Munich of the Midwest.”
- Jefferson City Oktoberfest (late September): The state’s capital city highlights its heritage in Old Munichburg. Peruse food and craft vendors; dance to live music; relax and visit the Muenchberg Beer and Wine Garden; cheer on your favorite dog during the “Dachshund Derby”; and so much more!
- Cole Camp Oktoberfest (late September): This small community festival offers big-time fun! Shop local vendors and savor German brats, German potato salad, kraut, among other tasty dishes (and needless to say, beer!). Music will be performed by the Die Deutschmeister Musik Makers as well as the local choir.
- Ozark Oktoberfest (mid-September): The town square in Ozark (about 30 minutes south of Springfield) will features crafters; artisans; and vintage, boutique, and business vendors. Appetizing hotdogs, brats and pretzels will be available for purchase as well as a variety of alcoholic beverages.
- House Springs Oktoberfest (mid-September): The St. Louis German Cultural Society hosts Oktoberfest at Donau Park in House Springs (approximately 40 minutes southwest of St. Louis) with a weekend of folk dancing, a Bier Night and German food.
- Soulard Oktoberfest (early October): This high-energy, family-friendly festival brings the spirit of Bavaria to the heart of the Midwest, complete with authentic German beer, traditional food, live music, and festive fun for all ages.
Celebrating Missouri’s German heritage through Oktoberfests is only one way to spend fall in Missouri. From spooky celebrations to music-filled weekends, Missouri’s fall festivals have something for everyone.