Walnut Creek Oktoberfest Is Nigh

WALNUT CREEK, CA—It's nearing the end of September, which in Walnut Creek means only one thing: Oktoberfest is almost here.

Get ready to turn up the oom-pah, raise your steins, and enjoy two days of family-friendly Bavarian fun at Walnut Creek Downtown Association’s annual Oktoberfest, planned for Friday and Saturday, Sept. 27-28 in downtown Civic Park East.

From traditional foods such as pretzels and brats to fun activities for the whole family, Oktoberfest brings live music, dancing, a kids' zone and a Biergarten featuring local brews—all to the heart of Walnut Creek.

Highlights of Walnut Creek Oktoberfest

Chill Zone: It’s not just beer at Oktoberfest; premium wines and specialty cocktails will also be poured. Find the hidden speakeasy Chill Zone and enjoy lounge seating, music and libations from Visit Walnut Creek’s Cocktail Trail.

Live Music: Enjoy traditional Oktoberfest music from Polkageist West, including basic polka lessons on Friday beginning at 3:30 p.m. On Saturday, from noon to 3 p.m., San Francisco’s Deutscher Musik Verein will be on the main stage. Jam to other live performances with rock cover bands, including Mad Apple and Dream Tellers.

Kids Zone & Pet Lounge: NEW THIS YEAR—Kids have two days to explore the Kinder Platz Play Zone. The zone includes a giant slide, mini golf, train rides, a magician, and more! Furry friends are welcome at Oktoberfest and can hang out in an area just for them, complete with pet vendors, giveaways, and lots of treats.

Pet Costume Contest: Dress your pets in their best dirndl dress or lederhosen and enter to win the dog and owner costume contest from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Parking/Festival Hours: Event parking is $10 and available onsite at 1111 Civic Drive during festival hours, which run from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and from noon to 9 p.m. Saturday. Please note the parking entrance is on Arroyo Way. Attendees are encouraged to use BART and the Walnut Creek Free Trolley, which runs from the BART station to downtown.

Tickets/Information: There is no admission to enter the festival. Early Bird pre-purchase drink ticket bundles start at $10 for one drink or $32 for a bundle. Prices do go up at the door. Kid Zone wristbands are good for both days and can be pre-purchased for $15 or two for $25. Go to Walnutcreekdowntown.com for more information. Attendees are encouraged to secure their drink tickets in advance to save money and not miss out on being part of this unforgettable celebration of German culture, Walnut Creek-style. Prost!