The Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest perfectly blends Bavarian tradition with mountain fun, offering authentic German food, beer, and lively oompah music. Enjoy family-friendly activities and exciting contests like stein-holding and log sawing, all in the festive spirit of Oktoberfest.
Don’t miss out on the fun, running from September 6 to November 8, 2025. Event times vary by date, so be sure to check out the schedule below.
Big Bear Oktoberfest is at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center, 42900 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake. It is on the corner of Division Drive and Big Bear Blvd.
Savor Authentic German Delights at Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest
Come hungry and ready to indulge in a true German feast at Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest!
Treat yourself to mouthwatering bratwurst, knockwurst, and kielbasa paired with hearty sides like sauerkraut and Bavarian dumplings. Warm up with a bowl of beer cheese soup, and don’t forget the giant pretzels!
For dessert, the German apple strudel topped with warm vanilla sauce is a must-try.
Of course, no Oktoberfest is complete without raising a stein of authentic German beer. Enjoy brews from Spaten, Franziskaner, Warsteiner, and Konig Ludwig as you toast to good times and great food. Prost!
Get your tickets and don’t miss this annual event.
Test Your Skills with Traditional Oktoberfest Contests
At Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest, the fun isn’t just in the beer and food—it’s in the contests too! Compete for prizes and bragging rights in traditional activities like stein-holding matches, log-sawing competitions, and the Queen Stein Carrying Contest.
For those who prefer a different challenge, there’s the safe slam beer-drinking race with non-alcoholic beer.
Kids can join in the excitement with the children’s pretzel toss and kiddy mug-holding contests. They also have activities like wall climbing, mechanical bull, giant inflatables, and more. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Enjoy Traditional German Music at Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest
Listen to authentic German music straight from Bavaria and Franconia!
Dance to the lively tunes of Die Sauerkrauts, Ladyhosen, Frankenrebeller Express, Die Gemütlichen Schuhplatter, and German Streetmusicians.
These talented musicians will have you singing along and dancing to classic um-pah-pah beats and energetic party tunes.
Southern California’s top German bands, Die Sauerkrauts and Ladyhosen, will also join the lineup, ensuring nonstop music and entertainment throughout the festival. Enjoy the sounds of Germany right in the heart of Big Bear Lake!
Check out the complete entertainment schedule so you can plan your Big Bear Oktoberfest and not miss your must-see polka band
Celebrate America’s Heroes at Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest
Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest is proud to honor America’s heroes with free general admission on select weekends. It’s a special way to show appreciation for those who serve and protect our communities.
US Military and Veterans, firefighters, law enforcement, and healthcare workers can enjoy the festivities at no cost on September 6, 7, 13, 14 and November 1, 2, 8. Immediate families also get discounted general admission tickets.
Don’t miss out as capacities are limited and reserving in advance is recommended. To get your access code for these free and discounted tickets, call 909-585-3000
Halloween Spooktacular
There’s also a costume contest and winners get prizes. The adult’s contest is on Saturday, November 1st and the kid’s contest is on Sunday, November 2nd.
Kids admission is free on November 2nd if they’re in a costume!
Event times for Big Bear Oktoberfest
This year’s Oktoberfest runs every weekend for nearly two months, from September 6 to November 8, 2025, giving you plenty of opportunities to join the celebration.
Whether you’re a local or visiting Big Bear Lake, this event is a must-attend as it has been nominated as one of the top 10 Oktoberfest celebrations in the US
This year, the event goes from September 6 to November 8, 2025
Hours are:
- Fridays (October Only): 5pm – 11pm
- September Saturdays: 1pm – 11pm
- October Saturdays: 1pm – 12am
- Sundays: 12pm – 6pm
Hurry, this event sells out every year so don’t wait. Grab your tickets now.
Oktoberfest Merchandise
Don’t forget to bring home a piece of the celebration! Big Bear Oktoberfest offers plenty of themed merch like classic beer steins, festive shirts, and hats.
Snag the shirt, tip the hat, and let the good times pour.
Pro Tips for Big Bear Oktoberfest
- Buy your tickets online before going. The entrance line for prepaid tickets is often shorter than the on-site ticket line. You’ll get in quicker and start enjoying the Oktoberfest festivities sooner.
- If the lines to get beer are long inside the venue, check the outside ones. The inside beer lines are often longer because they also serve food. There are a few beer stations outside and lines go faster.
- Roam around outside and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Oktoberfest fun extends outside with the live bands and games.
Keep the Big Bear Adventure Going
Make the most of your Big Bear Oktoberfest trip by exploring more family friendly things to do in Big Bear. Visit the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, grab coffee at Moonridge Coffee, or enjoy dinner at Hacienda Restaurant for a full mountain getaway.
