Get your Dirndl and Lederhosen and find your stein, because Saint Charles Oktoberfest is right around the corner. At the end of September, Frontier Park transforms into a German village complete with food stalls, gift vendors, and non-stop entertainment. Bavarian flags line the park, alpine signs point the way to different attractions, and charming storybook wooden structures transport you straight to Germany at this popular Saint Charles event.
Oktoberfest began over 200 years ago in Munich, Germany as a celebration of a royal marriage. It has since evolved into a multi-week festival now held in September due to the chilly October weather. St. Charles has embraced this tradition since 1986, hosting Saint Charles Oktoberfest during the last weekend of September. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the highlights of one of the biggest St. Charles events of the year.
Friday
Kick off Oktoberfest St. Charles with a frosty pint of your favorite German beer and a delicious bite of schnitzel. Saint Charles Mayor, Dan Borgmeyer, ceremoniously taps the first keg at the opening ceremony at 6:30 PM in the Hofbrau Biergarten. He hammers into the keg with a thwack as he shouts, “o’zapft is!” – German for “it’s tapped!” – To signify the start of all the things to do at Oktoberfest. From then on, immerse yourself in the German spirit with live music throughout the park. Enjoy authentic German delicacies while watching energetic German dance performances. It’s a night of festivities you won’t want to miss.
Saturday
Saturday’s schedule is packed full of German food, beer, entertainment, and competitions. Channel your inner Joey Chestnut at the bratwurst eating competition at 4 PM. Later, test your endurance in the Raise the Stein contest and see if you can hold a liter of beer the longest. The term “winner” is used loosely here because the sooner you drop out; the sooner you get to drink your beer. Start training now!
Throughout the day, watch German dance performances, indulge in Adam Puchta wine tastings, and enjoy over 12 hours of live German and pop music.
Sunday
Sunday’s activities begin with the Wurst Race Ever, also known as the Saint Charles Oktoberfest 5k and 10k runs. Participants receive a commemorative medal and a themed shirt for their hard work. These races benefit the Disabled Athlete Sports Association (DACA). From 12-4 PM on nearby South Main Street is the 39th annual antique car show. Presented by the First Capitol Classics Auto Club, this show features only the sleekest rides from 27 years ago and beyond. Cheer on the speediest little Dachshunds in the Wiener Takes All wiener dog derby as they run their hearts out. That’s not all, it’s also Sunday Funday! Bring the entire family for a day full of fun, education, and entertainment.
VIP Access Tickets
2026 VIP ticket information coming soon. The 2025 VIP experience included exclusive access to the Schlafly VIP Lounge, private restrooms, a German Buffet spread presented by Kenrick’s, a Hydration Station, and VIP Parking (on a first come, first serve basis), an official 2025 SCO Ceramic Stein, 3 beverages (alcohol and zero-proof options), and a 2025 Meister Bracelet. Make the most of Saint Charles Oktoberfest with a VIP Meister Pass. Get your tickets when they drop, they sell out fast!
Start planning now, St. Charles Oktoberfest will be here before you know it.