If you’re a fan of German culture—or just looking for a fun, festive experience—there’s no shortage of German festivals across the United States. From coast to coast, these events bring a taste of Germany to American soil, complete with delicious food, lively music, and time-honored traditions. Whether you’re celebrating Oktoberfest, a folk festival, or a Christmas market, these events offer something for everyone!
Here you’ll find bratwurst sizzling on the grill, oompah bands playing lively tunes, and plenty of opportunities to raise a stein of beer with friends. But these festivals aren’t just about food and drink. They are also a chance to immerse yourself in German heritage, dance to traditional music, and enjoy a welcoming community atmosphere.
So grab your lederhosen or dirndl, and get ready to explore some of the best German festivals right here in the U.S.!
Lancaster Liederkranz Oktoberfest — Pennsylvania
At the Lancaster Liederkranz Oktoberfest, you’ll find an authentic slice of Germany in the heart of Pennsylvania‘s Lancaster County. Hosted by the Lancaster Liederkranz, a German cultural club, this event brings every September traditional music, food, and drinks to life. Enjoy bratwurst, schnitzel, and pretzels while sipping on a cold beer in the biergarten.
There’s plenty of entertainment, too, with German folk bands and dancers taking center stage and creating a lively atmosphere for all ages. Kids can enjoy these games and activities too, while adults compete in stein-holding contests or try their hand at traditional German dancing. So make sure to come hungry and ready to have fun!
German Fest — Milwaukee, Wisconsin
The German Fest in Milwaukee, held every July, is a must-visit if you’re a fan of German culture. Located along the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline, this three-day festival is packed with music, dancing, and food that will transport you straight to Germany. You’ll find everything from bratwurst and schnitzel to strudel and pretzels, with plenty of German beer to wash it down.
Traditional German bands play throughout the event, and you can watch folk dancers, take part in parades, or even join in a dachshund race! There’s also a dedicated kids’ area, so the whole family can enjoy the fun. The festival also features cultural displays and vendors offering authentic German crafts.
Wurstfest — New Braunfels, Texas
At Wurstfest in New Braunfels, Texas, you’ll experience one of the country’s best celebrations of German culture and sausage. This 10-day festival in November is all about having fun while indulging in delicious German and Texas-style sausages, pretzels, and plenty of beer. Located along the scenic Comal River, it features live polka bands, traditional German dances, and carnival rides for all ages.
You can explore cultural exhibits, shop for German crafts, and try your hand at fun competitions like stein-holding. Whether you’re there to sample the food, enjoy the music, or take in the festive atmosphere, Wurstfest offers a fantastic way to experience a mix of German heritage and Texas hospitality.
St. Louis Strassenfest — Missouri
At the St. Louis Strassenfest you’ll experience a great summer celebration of German heritage right in the heart of Missouri. This lively festival offers a perfect mix of traditional German food, music, and entertainment. You can feast on bratwurst, schnitzel, and pretzels while enjoying a cold beer in the beer garden. Live German bands and folk dancers keep the energy high, and there’s even a parade showcasing German cultural pride. Strassenfest also features craft vendors, games, and activities for the whole family, including a Kinderzone for the little ones. Come for the food, stay for the dancing, and make some great memories!
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati — Cincinnati, Ohio
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati in Cincinnati, Ohio, is one of the biggest Oktoberfest celebrations in the U.S. Held every September, this weekend-long event transforms downtown Cincinnati into a vibrant German village. You’ll find all the classic German foods—bratwurst, sauerkraut, schnitzel, and pretzels—alongside an impressive selection of beers.
The festival features live German bands, folk dancing, and fun contests like the famous “Running of the Wieners,” in which dachshunds race in hot dog costumes! There’s also the world’s largest chicken dance, which draws crowds year after year. With thousands of people coming together to celebrate, Oktoberfest Zinzinnati offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Fargo German Folk Festival — North Dakota
At the Fargo German Folk Festival in North Dakota, you’ll get a rich taste of German culture in the heart of the Midwest. Held every summer, this festival focuses on folk traditions, making it a bit different from the larger Oktoberfest-style events. Here you’ll be sure to partake in traditional German music, folk dancing, and storytelling that showcase the heritage of the region’s German immigrants. There’s plenty of delicious German food to try, from bratwurst to homemade pastries, along with cold German beer. The festival also offers craft demonstrations and cultural exhibits, giving you a deeper look into German customs and traditions. With activities for both kids and adults, the Fargo German Folk Festival is a family-friendly event that brings a welcoming community feel.
You Might Also Enjoy: Break Out Your Lederhosen! Head to Munich for Oktoberfest
Buffalo German Festival — New York
At the Buffalo German Festival, you’ll experience a lively celebration of German culture in the heart of western New York. Held every summer, this festival brings together traditional food, music, and dancing, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere for all ages. You can enjoy bratwurst, schnitzel, sauerkraut, and other German favorites while sipping on a cold beer or two. The festival features live performances from oompah bands, folk dancers, and plenty of opportunities to join in on the fun. There’s also a market area where you can shop for German crafts and souvenirs. With activities for both kids and adults, including games and contests, the Buffalo German Festival is a great way to celebrate the rich German heritage in the region.
FAQs:
Q: Do I need to buy tickets in advance for these festivals?
A: It’s a good idea to buy tickets in advance, especially for popular festivals like Oktoberfest Zinzinnati. Many events offer discounted early bird tickets, and some may sell out. Check the festival’s website for ticket information.
Q: Are these festivals family-friendly?
A: Yes! Most German festivals in the U.S. are family-friendly and offer activities for kids, such as games, rides, and crafts. Look for specific areas like Kinderparks at some events.
Q: What’s the best way to dress for a German festival?
A: While casual attire is fine, many people enjoy dressing in traditional German clothing like lederhosen or dirndls. It adds to the fun atmosphere, but it’s not required. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking and dancing.
Q: Are pets allowed at these festivals?
A: Policies vary by festival. Some events, like dachshund races at Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, may be pet-friendly, while others do not allow pets. It’s best to check the specific festival’s rules ahead of time.
Q: Do the festivals accept credit cards?
A: Most festivals accept credit cards for entry tickets and at food and drink vendors, but some may have cash-only spots. It’s a good idea to bring some cash, just in case.
Q: Is parking available at the festivals?
A: Parking availability depends on the location. Many festivals offer on-site or nearby parking, though fees may apply. Some larger festivals in city centers might suggest public transportation due to limited parking. Check the event’s website for details.
Have we missed any other German festival you love to attend in the US? Let us know in our comments section below!
