Cheers! to the 37th Annual Carlsbad Oktoberfest & Family Fall Festival

Pumpkin spice lattes are back on the market, Halloween costumes are stocking the shelves, and all of the kids are back in school. Fall is knocking on our door, and for Carlsbad that means we’re gearing up for pumpkin patches, festivals, and trick-or-treating. Oktoberfest is one of the first events that ring in the start of fall. Each year, the Carlsbad Rotary puts on the biggest Oktoberfest festival in North County. This year is no different. On October 5th, Carlsbad Oktoberfest will be opening its doors for a day full of sausages, beer, German music, and fall festivities. The festival is held from 12 p.m. – 9 p.m. and is a family-friendly event that celebrates community, German history, and good clean fun.

German Cuisine and Classic Oktoberfest Fare

The Carlsbad Oktoberfest & Family Fall Festival has been ushering in the start of fall since 1982. For 32 years, the festival has opened its doors to beer enthusiasts and grown into what it is today. While you don’t have to be German to take part in the fun, German culture is the backbone behind the food, music, and celebration. Classic dishes of bratwurst and sausage paired with potato salad and sauerkraut will be available. If you prefer something lighter, chicken is also an option. Food vendors with fall snacks will have everything from pumpkin pie and strudel to pretzels and cotton candy. Adults can buy a traditional stein and wash it all down with an ice-cold German beer.

Live Music and More

During the beginning of the day, DJ Rob will be serving up traditional German music and games. Little ones can compete in the Best Dressed German Junge & Mädchen (girl and boy) contest on the Main Stage. The BlueBirds German band will take the stage at 4 p.m. and accompany the official welcome and the star spangled banner. The welcome will be followed by a yodeling contest. From there, The Last Call Rock Band and BlueBirds German band will take turns sharing the stage through the end of the night. The famed Chicken Dance will be on full display, encouraging little kids, big kids, and adults to join in the fun.

Fun Activities for All

In addition to the German food, German music, and bier, Carlsbad Oktoberfest also offers a variety of fall-themed activities for kids. There will be a pumpkin patch where children can choose a pumpkin and decorate it, as well as face painting, bouncy houses, and balloon artists. Children under 10 years old are admitted free, and kids who come in costume can participate in the costume contest to win a prize. Adults in costume can also take part in the Fetching Fräulein Costume Contest or Masculine Mann Costume Contest taking place at 4:30pm on the Main Stage.

Tickets for the event are available now. If you purchase your meal in advance, you will get free admission included in your purchase. $15 will get you a meal ticket and entry into the festival. Tickets for kids over 10 years old and adults who do not want a meal are only $5. This year, the Carlsbad Rotary is sponsoring the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation and Solutions for Change. The proceeds from Oktoberfest 2019 will go a long way in providing support to two of the city’s most influential nonprofits. Get your tickets today and get ready for the 37th Annual Carlsbad Oktoberfest!