St. Paul Oktoberfest

Event hours
Friday, September 13 | 4 to 10 PM
Saturday, September 14 | 10 AM to 10 PM

St. Paul Oktoberfest is held annually on the beautiful grounds of the Germanic-American Institute. Just like the Munich original, we celebrate in September when the weather is better! As the GAI’s largest fundraiser, proceeds from the event help raise the necessary funds to support our cultural and language education programming all year long. With non-stop entertainment and fun for the whole family, it’s a two-day celebration of German food, beer, and culture!

Admission is free. Adults 21 and over may buy a $10 wristbands for beer and wine purchase with valid ID. No pets allowed, but service animals are always welcome.

Entertainment
The GAI welcomes the Bavarian Musikmeisters, PiepTone, The Narren, Polka Police, Jimi the Polka Pirate, Rivers Ballet, Turkish Dancers, and Edelweiss Dancers.
Full entertainment schedule

Vendors
Food: Aki’s Pretzels, Burbach’s Potato Pancakes, Gerhard’s Brats, German Brat Haus, Ruhland’s Strudel
Educational: Twin Cities German Immersion School, State Farm
Merchandise: Amber Tree Jewelry, Heim-made, Herrnhuter Sterne

PARKING
FREE parking at St. Paul College surface lots B, C, and E and in the parking ramp, just a few blocks north on N. Farrington Street, along with street parking in the Summit neighborhood.

Volunteer at St. Paul Oktoberfest

THANK YOU TO OUR PRESENTING SPONSORS

THANK YOU TO OUR ST. PAUL OKTOBERFEST SPONSORS

Oktoberfest FAQs

What are the dates and times of your event? Friday, September 13 from 4-10 PM, and Saturday, September 14 from 10 AM-10 PM.

Where is the event located? On the grounds of the Germanic-American Institute, 301 Summit Avenue, Saint Paul MN 55102.

Will the Haus be open? The GAI Haus is closed to the public during St. Paul Oktoberfest. Guided tours will be offered on Friday at 5 pm and on Saturday at 11 am, 2 pm and 5 pm.

Are you charging admission in 2024? The event is free to attend and enjoy. However, if you want to purchase and consume alcohol, you will need to purchase a $10 wristband and provide proof of age with a valid ID.

Where do the proceeds of the wristband purchase go? Oktoberfest is the Germanic-American Institute’s largest fundraiser of the year. Proceeds from the wristbands and event help the GAI raise the necessary funds to support its cultural and language education programming all year long.

Is my wristband good for either day? Wristbands are good for one day only (Friday or Saturday). If you plan to attend both days, you can purchase our pre-sale package, which includes a wristband good for both days.

Can I bring my own mug? Yes, glass mugs will be accepted and are strongly encouraged. And you will receive $1 off every beer purchase! (Please, no ceramic mugs.)

Are pets allowed? Pets are not allowed at St. Paul Oktoberfest. Service animals are always welcome.

Is there parking available? Yes, there is FREE parking at St. Paul College surface lots B, C, and E and in the parking ramp, just a few blocks north on N. Farrington Street, along with street parking in the Summit neighborhood. You may bike as well, there will be bike racks available on the grounds to lock up your bike.

Is there handicap parking available? Due to the food truck setup along Summit Avenue, there will not be handicap parking available along Summit. There will be drop-off spots available.

Any additional questions? Feel free to email us at office@gaimn.org.