The very first Oktoberfest was held on October 12, 1810, intended to celebrate the royal wedding of Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese in Munich, Germany. Then, it was converted into horse races and an Agriculture Show so it could continue annually, preceded by traditional dances to celebrate the royal family. Each year, more beer stands and carnival attractions made appearances. The horse races – once the most popular aspect – ended in the 1960s, but the festival lives on today in Oktoberfest events held across the globe.
And so, we come close to another October, and another opportunity to celebrate German heritage, community, and well-made beer. Pull out your lederhosen and get ready to lift a glass at this year’s Oktoberfest in Mid-Missouri celebrations:
Jefferson City’s Oktoberfest
September 28-29, 2018
Jefferson City’s 18th Annual Oktoberfest boasts a wide range of activities, from traditional German dancing to a new stein-holding competition, kids activities, live music, a dachshund costume contest and race. Hosted by the Old Munichburg Association, it’s a celebration you won’t want to miss!
Lee’s Summit Oktoberfest
September 28-29, 2018
Enjoy three different stages of entertainment as well as a carnival and a German biergarten at the Lee’s Summit Oktoberfest. There will also be several activities for kids like pumpkin carving and a number of contests including a homebrew beer competition. Lee’s Summit has hosted this Oktoberfest for over 20 years, so you know they know what they’re doing.
Saint Charles Oktoberfest
September 28-30, 2018
The Saint Charles Oktoberfest boasts a family-friendly event to celebrate the community. You can expect to see both local and German bands on the entertainment roster, a wide selection of German beers, and even grab VIP access if you choose. Don’t forget about the 1-mile rootbeer fun run! Admission is free, but you’ll need to grab a $2 wristband in order to purchase alcohol.
Hermann Oktoberfest
The Hermann Oktoberfest runs every weekend in October and is one of the most notable Oktoberfest celebrations in Missouri. From beer to brats and arts to crafts, there are a variety of events held throughout Hermann, so you’ll want to hit up the full list to make sure you don’t miss out!
Oktoberfest in Cole Camp
October 13, 2018
From street vendors to a gun show and – of course – German beer and food, the Oktoberfest in Cole Camp offers events for the whole family to enjoy. It’s one day only and packed with everything you could want in an Oktoberfest celebration. Enjoy a monarch butterfly release, birdhouse building, and an old steam engine display following an opening ceremony with German singers and dancers.
Enjoy the contests, entertainment, and activities at any one of these Oktoberfest in Mid-Missouri celebrations. If it’s too hard to choose, hit up more than one Mid-Missouri Oktoberfest – and remember, “prost” means “cheers” in German, so say it loud and say it proud.
