2025 Oktoberfests in Michigan

It may seem counterintuitive, but most Oktoberfests are actually held in September, in keeping with German tradition. The original fest in Munich was a wedding celebration that took place over five days in October 1810, hence the name. It was so much fun that it became an annual tradition, which grew in size and length. Eventually they decided it made more sense to start the event in September when the days are longer and warmer. Many Michigan events follow that same logic, although others are still set in October. Below are the best Oktoberfests in Michigan for 2025.

September 18-21 Oktoberfest in Frankenmuth

If you only make it to one, then make it the grandaddy of them all. Settled by Germans, and taking on the look and feel of the old country, this tiny hamlet is better known as Michigan’s Little Bavaria. So much so that, in 1996, Lord Mayor Christian Ude of Germany officially sanctioned the Frankenmuth Oktoberfest celebration, making it the only city outside of Munich to receive such an honor. German bands, dancers, and fare are abundant. If you go on Saturday, be sure to check out the Wiener-dog races in the Harvey Kern Community Pavilion at noon. Fifty to a hundred dachshunds are positioned on one side of the pavilion floor and let loose in the hopes that they’ll race to the other side. Will they?

September 19-20 Oktoberfest in Saline

Head to S. Arbor Street to find the Bier Garten in the heart of Downtown Saline. Admission is $10 for those 21 and over, and free for youngsters. The party really gets flowing at 6:30pm on Friday with the Tapping of the Golden Keg Opening Ceremony. Expect a great lineup of local and German brews, along with scrumptious food available for purchase. A variety of activities are planned for all ages each day. Friday evening, Your Generation will keep the party rocking, while Saturday night is headlined by Parallel Fifth. All proceeds from ticket sales will support programs and events designed to bring communities together for the revitalization of Downtown Saline.

September 20 Blackrocks Oktoberfest in Marquette

If beer is your primary motivation for hitting an Oktoberfest, then this is a great option, since it takes place at one of the U.P.’s finest. Blackrocks Brewery is hosting this Bavarian blowout. To really get in the spirit, don’t forget to don you lederhosen and dirndls. This event runs from Noon-11pm and features live German music, commemorative steins, a stein-holding competition, Hammerslagen (hammer-slamming), and lots of delicious eats.

September 26-27 Oktoberfest Grand Rapids

Hosted by the Edelweiss Club, a German-American nonprofit, which is designed to celebrate German culture, this fest is fun for the whole family. Kids can participate in wacky games like Koffer Packen (packing a suitcase), Schokoladenessen (chocolate eating), and Topfschlagen (o0t hitting-prize hunting). Adults can show off their keg toss and rolling skills, as well as stein holding endurance. German Bands and Alphorn players will be on hand, along with a load of dachshunds eager to race. Brats, wieners, schnitzel, strudel, and plenty of other food will be available, along with tasty brews.

September 25-27 Rochester Mills Oktoberfest in Rochester

Rochester Mills Beer Co. kicks off its Bavarian revelry on a Thursday night with the ceremonial tapping of the beer keg at 6pm, followed by Enzian aus Detroit playing some authentic German tunes. The fun continues over the weekend with more authentic music, a full German food menu, and stein-holding competitions competitions. If your stomach can handle it, you can even compete in a sauerkraut-eating contest!

September 27 Oktoberfest in Iron Mountain

This authentic Bavarian Oktoberfest has been a U.P. staple for over a decade. The festivities include outdoor yard games, lively music, and of course, the ever-popular stein holding competition. Savor delicious German food from Millie’s Market, Meat Sweats BBQ, and Harmony Hearth Bakery. In addition to traditional Oktoberfest games, there will be a Children’s Area with face painting and jumps, festive drinks, lively polka, and plenty of Bavarian cheer.

October 3-5 – Skitoberfest at Boyne Mountain

A mountain is certainly an appropriate place to enjoy a Bavarian-style celebration. This one has some unique qualities like stein hoisting, keg throwing, spouse-carrying competitions, pond pedaling, and even burning old skis in a bonfire. (That last one is actually an annual ritual.) Try your hand at some new activities like axe-throwing and pie-eating. The Pray for Snow Bonfire is an excellent end to a crisp fall day at Boyne. There will be a Bier Hall filled with craft brews, delicious eats, and live music. Oh, and don’t leave this one without taking in the fall colors from the Skybridge!

October 11 Oktoberfest in Douglas

Often overshadowed by its neighbor, Saugatuck, Douglas is a wonderful place to spend a day. Why not go for their fall party? Set in the aptly named Beery Field. You can also look forward to traditional dances from Dance Asylum, a keg toss, and music by the 25-piece Ein Prosit Band. DJ John E will be on site as well, to kick the party up a notch. Enjoy a frosty adult beverage from Saugatuck Brewing Company, or savor a glass from Modales Wines. Admission is only $5 and serves as a fundraiser for Community Pride MI.

Many breweries around the state will host their own parties on-site in keeping with the German theme. You can also always gather friends and create your own version. Oktoberfest beers are available from Bell’s and Frankenmuth Brewery, and Atwater has its Blocktober on the market now.

Don some lederhosen or a dirndl, hit the road (or your own backyard), and enjoy one or two of the best Oktoberfests in Michigan. Prost!