The fall has arrived and with it come plenty of opportunities to celebrate and enjoy some family fun. While there’s still time to take in some of New Jersey’s best fall festivals, we’ve also put together a list of some Oktoberfest events sure to have you celebrating and making memories.
Did you know the original Oktoberfest took place in Munich to celebrate the marriage of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig to the Saxon-Hildburghausen Princess Therese? Today Munich hosts the largest beer festival in the world. Traditionally Oktoberfest took place during the 16 days before October 1st, but you can find Oktoberfest events in New Jersey all month. Here are some places you can enjoy Oktoberfest locally.
Chester Lions Club Oktoberfest – September 23 – 24, 2017
This family friendly charity fundraiser is $6 per person (children under 12 are free) and includes pony rides, games, and live children’s music. All proceeds will be donated to charity.
Chubb Park, Route 24 West in Chester, NJ 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.
German-American Society of Trenton Oktoberfest – September 24, 2017
This 8th annual Oktoberfest event is Mercer County’s largest German event. $5 per person (children under 12 are free) includes a pig roast, vendors, crafts, and games. Featuring Samuel Adams beer as well as traditional German beer. A portion of the proceeds go to support local charity The Jeremy Fund.
FREE admission to anyone wearing traditional German attire!
215 Uncle Pete’s Rd, Hamilton, NJ 12 p.m. – 7p.m.
Ales ‘N Tails Oktoberfest – Saturday, October 14, 2017
The Essex County Turtleback Zoo hosts this fun spin on Oktoberfest for adults over 21. Traditional music will be provided by a live Oompah Band and beer from all over the world will be available. Local craft and food vendors will also be on site. $60 per person or $15 for designated drivers. Proceeds go to support the Essex County Parks Foundation.
560 Northfield Avenue, West Orange, NJ – 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Forest Lodge Oktoberfest – Saturday, October 14, 2017
For $7 per person (children under 10 are free) you can enjoy live music with the Doppleganger Band, amusement rides, and carnival booths for the kids. There will be a vendor fair as well as plenty of traditional German and American food available for purchase.
11 Reinman Rd, Warren, NJ – 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Laurita Oktoberfest – October 21 – 22, 2017
Join the Laurita Winery for vineyard tours, live entertainment, line dancing, children’s play area and activities, fire pits, and food trucks. Admission of $8 (everyone 20 and under is free) includes a souvenir wine glass. Enjoy the fireworks on Saturday night!
85 Archertown Rd, New Egypt, NJ – Saturday 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
We hope you have a fun and safe Oktoberfest regardless of which event you choose. If you’d like to enjoy this year’s Oktoberfest activities without wondering whether your contacts have dried out or you’ve enjoyed too many adult beverages, give OCLI a call to set up a consultation.