What to Know About Breckenridge Oktoberfest
Every September, the charming mountain town of Breckenridge, Colorado transforms into a Bavarian paradise for one of the state’s most beloved fall events — Breckenridge Oktoberfest.
Traditionally held the second weekend of September, this annual festival combines alpine beauty with German traditions, making it one of the most popular Colorado Oktoberfest events.
If you’ve ever dreamed of attending the famous Munich Oktoberfest but want something closer to home, Breckenridge delivers.
The event is packed with frothy pints of beer, authentic Bavarian cuisine, live music, and festive dancing.
The Rocky Mountains in the backdrop are an added bonus.
What you can expect at Breckenridge Oktoberfest
You can expect some good beer, delicious food, and a great time!
The event takes over the entire town—Main Street in downtown Breckenridge is lined with tents and food trucks serving food, drinks, as well as merchandise.
But the event extends beyond Main Street and onto the surrounding greenspace where visitors tend to lounge along the creek.
Here you will find a wide selection of both German and domestic beers at various locations around the festival grounds.
You’ll also find traditional German foods like giant Bavarian pretzels, smoked bratwursts, potato pancakes, and crispy schnitzel.
Breckenridge takes pride in creating an authentic Oktoberfest experience — with staff and visitors dressed in lederhosen and dirndls, lively polka bands, and plenty of opportunities to join in on the dancing.
Parking
I would recommend parking at the South Gondola Parking Lot.
It’s not directly in town, so you’ll have to walk a bit, but it’s a large space where you will likely find a spot.
You can try to find street parking in downtown Breckenridge or in one of the smaller lots if you get there early before the crowds.
If you don’t get there early, head straight to the South Gondola lot to avoid wasting time trying to search for a space.
Need to knows before you go
Expect Crowds: This is one of the biggest fall festivals in Breckenridge, attracting visitors from all over Colorado and beyond. If you want a more relaxed experience, arrive earlier in the day.
Admission: Entry is free, but beer, food, and merchandise are available for purchase with a credit card (no more tokens or wristbands).
Souvenirs: Consider buying the signature ceramic Breckenridge Oktoberfest stein, which comes with one free beer and makes for a great keepsake.
Things to do at Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest 5K race
Listen to live polka music
Stein holding competition
Shop downtown Breckenridge
Food & Drink
The food is absolutely amazing and is honestly the biggest draw for me.
If you love smoked sausages, sauerkraut, black forest cake, and other German foods, you do not want to miss out.
Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a hearty bite to pair with your beer, the food stalls alone are worth the trip.
If you’re a beer enthusiast, this event is for you. Expect to see everything from crisp pilsners and amber lagers to rich dunkel-style brews.
My Review
What I love about Oktoberfest is that you can make it whatever experience you want.
If you want to dress up in lederhosen and just go there for the beer you can totally do that.
If you’re looking for a more chill time, you can go for the food, picnic in the field, and just enjoy the music.
Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a lover of German culture, or simply someone looking for fun things to do in Breckenridge this fall, Oktoberfest should be at the top of your list.
I had a great time and can’t wait to go again!
Pro Tip: Pair your visit with a scenic hike or gondola ride earlier in the day to enjoy the fall foliage before diving into the beer garden festivities.
