If you’re a beer lover, chances are, one of your favorite things about fall is probably Oktoberfest – that annual time of year when we give a little nod to our friends in Germany and celebrate all things beer. Well, you’ll be happy to know that if you’re in North Carolina or just have plans to pass through the Tarheel State this fall, there are plenty of opportunities for you to celebrate Oktoberfest all over the state. From beer and bratwurst to music and lederhosen, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into old-world Germany at these festive celebrations.
Hickory Oktoberfest, Hickory
One of the most popular Oktoberfest celebrations in NC, Hickory Oktoberfest, takes place the second weekend of October in the town of Hickory. This three-day event is massive, with three stages of live entertainment, hundreds of vendors, traditional German food like bratwursts and Bavarian pastries, an arts and crafts show, games, rides, and, of course, plenty of brews to enjoy between two large beer gardens.
Sugar Mountain Resort Oktoberfest, Sugar Mountain
Combine your celebration with a little leaf-peeping by attending Oktoberfest at Sugar Mountain Ski Resort, located at over 4,000 feet above sea level in the Blue Ridge Mountains. You can take in the fall foliage, enjoy some authentic Bavarian cuisine, including pretzels, strudel, sauerkraut and brats, shop the wares of local craftsmen and artisans, enjoy live music from an “oompah” band, and, of course, drink a big ol’ stein of beer.
Triangle Oktoberfest, Cary
If you’re going to be in the Triangle area of North Carolina, you’re in luck because the largest Oktoberfest celebration in central NC is held in the town of Cary every year. Every part of the Triangle Oktoberfest is authentically German, from the Bavarian food and German beers to the polka music and friendly contests like Stein hoisting and the hammer striking competition. Dog lovers will also get a special kick out of the festival’s annual wiener dog race and parade.
Durham Oktoberfest, Durham
Durham Oktoberfest is an annual event that takes place at the Motorco Music Hall in downtown Durham, which is transformed inside into a German beer hall. The “German Kitchen Takeover” includes bratwursts, schnitzels, pretzels and more, while you can also enjoy liters of Paulaner Oktoberfestbier and dance to some authentic oompah party music from The Little German Band.
Oktoberfest Under the Bridge, Wilmington
This Oktoberfest celebration gets its unique name, Oktoberfest Under the Bridge, from its location at Waterline Brewing Company, which is situated right beneath the Cape Fear River bridge in Wilmington. Besides the expected beer tents, live music, schnitzel and bratwursts, you’ll also find some fun contests like Stein Holding and Best Dressed – so make sure to break out your best lederhosen for the event!
Asheville Oktoberfest, Asheville
Asheville Oktoberfest, held in Pack Square Park in downtown Asheville, is an eclectic combination of this mountain town’s unique vibe and old-world German traditions. In addition to tastings from more than 20 different local and regional breweries, you’ll also find lots of traditional German food like bratwurst, schnitzel, and pretzels, live polka music, and a variety of Oktoberfest games like pretzel tossing and a keg rolling contest.
