Oktoberfest in California 2026
Oktoberfest in California 2026
Bavarian Traditions Meet Golden State Spirit
With a heritage dating back to German immigrants in the early 1900s, California's Oktoberfest has grown from neighborhood gatherings to massive, world-class festivals. Today, the state boasts a German-American community of over 3.3 million people, ensuring that every bratwurst, beer, and "Prost!" is as authentic as it gets.
Event Calendar
- 📅 Big Bear Lake: Late Sept – Early Oct
- 📅 Phoenix Club (Anaheim): Sept & Oct Weekends
- 📅 Old World (Huntington Beach): Sept & Oct Weekends
- 📅 One Paseo (San Diego): Oct 7 (Saturday)
Key Locations
- 📍 Big Bear: 42900 Big Bear Blvd, CA
- 📍 Anaheim: 1340 S Sanderson Ave, CA
- 📍 Huntington Beach: 7561 Center Ave, CA
- 📍 San Francisco: Pier 45 / 2455 3rd St, CA
Major Celebrations
Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest
Founded in 1971, this high-altitude fest fuses Bavarian culture with the scenic San Bernardino Mountains. Expect classic knockwurst, bratwurst, and authentic Paulaner or Spaten brews served in heavy glass steins.
The Phoenix Club (Anaheim)
A cultural landmark in Orange County. Highlights include the legendary Dachshund Races, Stein-holding contests, and high-energy performances of the Chicken Dance and traditional Bavarian folk dancing.
El Cajon & San Diego
One of the closest experiences to Munich you'll find in Southern California. The German American Societies of San Diego offer oxtails on the spit, potato pancakes, and authentic European pastries in a massive outdoor "tent" patio.
Get Festival Ready
Did You Know?
California’s German population (3.3M) is larger than the total population of Chicago! This high density ensures local festivals maintain strict standards for beer and food quality.