SeeCalifornia.com

September in California signals the launch of Oktoberfest. While many think the name of the event means it should take place in the month of October, there are some events throughout the state where it’s not a one-time, weekend affair. Among them are Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest (pictured,) which starts in September and is held on weekends through October. Drinking beer is certainly reason to cheer, but there’s so much more to Oktoberfest as you’ll find out at this rip-roaring event.

Big Bear isn’t the only city that enjoys the merriment of this annual event over a span of one or several months. Other destinations include Torrance’s Alpine Village Oktoberfest, Huntington Beach, and Anaheim’s Phoenix Club Oktoberfest.

How do you stretch out a beer fest over weeks, or maybe months?

• By offering contests such as sawing logs and beer stein carrying contest
• Chicken Dance!
• German bands
• German beers on tap
• Favorite foods such as sausages and sauerkraut
• Dirndl dressed maidens serving cocktails and “shots” of liqueur beverages
• Clothes for the occasion such as lederhosen
• Special days for children, seniors, free admission days, etc.

Huntington Beach’s Old World German Restaurant is among the few that have a dedicated Kinder Fest on Sundays for the children. That event features dachshund races, kids’ bounce houses, games and of course, the outdoor beer garden where parents or grandparents can watch the Kindern play, while sipping an ice cold brew.

We are busily updating the California Oktoberfest roster, but do take a peak at the cities that have offered special events in years past…and maybe you’ll find your special celebration.