3 Ways to Celebrate Oktoberfest in Des Moines

While it may seem too soon for Oktoberfest, several celebrations around Des Moines are just around the corner. So grab your lederhosen and get out there to join the fun at the following events:

Des Moines’ 13th annual Oktoberfest kicks off at 3 p.m. on Friday, September 23 in the Historic Court District. Some of this year’s main attractions include a Hofbrau Rooftop Bier Garden, a Craft Beer Village featuring several Oktoberfest specials, authentic German food, and bands on the Leinenkugel’s main stage throughout the two-day event. You also won’t want to miss the Bier Maiden Contest and Stein Holding (Masskrugstemmen) Competition on the main stage, or the various rooftop contests, including Hammerschlagen and Beer Checkers.

Tickets are $7 for one-day admission, and $13 for a weekend pass, which you can purchase online or at any Des Moines area Hy-Vee.

2. Adventureland 2nd Annual Oktoberfest     
305 34th Ave NW, Altoona
3 miles from Springs at Jordan Creek

On Saturday, October 1 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Adventureland Park brings Oktoberfest to Iowa. Live music, German beers, food, rides, games and fun will be the focus of the day. Contests during the celebration will run the gamut from best Bavarian-themed costume and Angry Apple Bobbing to Stein Hoisting.

The event will feature five music stages, street performers throughout the ground and a hypnotist, Magical Master Ben Ulin, in Sheriff Sam's Saloon at 4 and 6 p.m. Food and beverage stands will feature German specialty foods, Iowa craft wines, and 70-plus craft beers.

3. West Des Moines Rotary Oktoberfest
Wine Styles of West Glen
5515 Mills Civic Parkway, West Des Moines
3 miles from Springs at Jordan Creek

Have fun and help the community by attending this service club’s Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 8 from 5 to 8 p.m. The celebration helps raise funds that aid local students through scholarships and features beer and wine provided by Twisted Vine, Johnson Brothers, Okoboji Brewing Company and Wine Styles. Be sure to catch several young, talented musicians during the event including Mississippi Jake, Courtney Krause and The Host Country.

There is plenty of fun to go around this fall in the Des Moines area. Will you be attending or participating in any of these events? Let us know in the comments below!