16th Annual Twin Cities Oktoberfest

Twin Cities Oktoberfest is excited to celebrate the 16th anniversary of our event in 2026! You can find us in the heart of the Twin Cities at the Historic Progress Center on the Minnesota State Fairgrounds. Like years’ past, our event is 100% local – that includes all beer, food, music, merchandise and other entertainment. We are happy to have a few returning and NEW beer/cider sponsors – Utepils Brewing, Pryes Brewing Company, Dangerous Man Brewing, Haggard Barrel Brewing Co., and Minneapolis Cider Company. Our food offerings in 2026 include Gerhard’s Brats, traditional German pretzels from Aki’s Breadhaus, treats from Sara’s Tipsy Pies, candied bacon from Big Guy’s BBQ and Jesse’s Spatzle! For traditional Oktoberfest music, we have three terrific bands – Bavarian Musikmeisters, The Elk River German Band and The iPolka Band. We also welcome back the world renowned and the #1 North American German dancing troupe, SG Edelweiss, as well as a couple of fun cover bands, The Stand Ups and Reese Glover. We have additional music in our tent again this year, with Cornell Power Service, Gonzo’s Planet and Joe Hysell & The Mercenary Duo electrifying the stage. You can try your hand-eye coordination on Hammer and Nail or with Nice Axe. We hold multiple stein holding competitions over the 2-day event, which includes both Men’s and Ladies’ divisions, and ALL proceeds go to charity. Band Schedule (subject to change) Friday, October 9th Main stage 5 pm: Bavarian Musikmeisters 8:30 pm: Reese Glover SG Edelweiss performs during breaks Tent stage 6 pm: Cornell Power Service Saturday, October 10th Main stage Noon: The Elk River German Band 3:30 pm: The iPolka Band 7 pm: The Stand Ups SG Edelweiss performs during breaks Tent stage 1 pm: Joe Hysell & The Mercenary Duo 5 pm: Gonzo’s Planet