As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures start to drop, prepare your steins, don your dirndls, and dust off your lederhosen because Oktoberfest season is in full swing in Vail and Summit County, Colorado! A time filled with lively celebrations, traditional Bavarian music, seasonal beers, and German cuisine, Oktoberfest is a festival beloved by locals and tourists alike. So, grab a brewski and join us as we walk you through all the festivities you need to know.
What is Oktoberfest?
Derived from a royal wedding, Oktoberfest originated in Munich, Germany, in 1810. It was a grand horse race celebration in celebration of the marriage between Crown Prince Ludwig (later King Ludwig I) and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The citizens enjoyed the festivity so much that they decided to repeat it annually, thus marking the beginning of the world's largest beer festival and an important aspect of German culture. Over time, the festival evolved, incorporating beer tents in the 1890s, which have since
become a signature element.
Today, Oktoberfest is celebrated worldwide, including in Vail and Summit County, as a nod to this rich Bavarian tradition.
Arapahoe Basin Oktoberfest in Summit County, CO: Get ready to experience the best high-altitude celebration of Oktoberfest on Saturday, September 23, through Sunday, September 24, at the Mountain Goat Plaza.
This year, our annual Oktoberfest is sprawling over a weekend and invites you to wear your best lederhosen and join in the fun. Our unique mountainous backdrop will be adorned with fall hues. You can unwind on the grassy lawn with friends, family, and your furry companions and enjoy FREE chairlift rides throughout the weekend! The event kicks off each day at 11:00 AM and goes till 4:00 PM. Celebrations include live music and dancing, along with a delicious spread of beer, brats, and pretzels. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, take advantage of our hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and a free 20-hole disc golf course. Admission includes an exclusive A-Basin Stein and a beer of your choice. For those who prefer a more flexible arrangement, separate beer and food options are available. Here's a sneak peek into the event schedule:
Saturday
- 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM: Free chairlift rides
- 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM: Food and beer service at the base area/Mountain Goat Plaza
- 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM: Live music by Those Austrian Guys and performances by the Dirndls Dance Troupe
Sunday
- 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM: Free chairlift rides
- 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM: Food and beer service at the base area/Mountain Goat Plaza
- 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM: Live music by The Polkanauts and performances by the Dirndls Dance Troupe
Join us and immerse yourself in the best authentic Oktoberfest experience right here in the mountains!
Other Summit County Oktoberfest Celebrations
If you're craving more, don't worry! Other towns and destinations within the area are also celebrating their versions of Oktoberfest.
- Keystone's Oktoberfest is September 2, 2023, at the River Run Village.
- Breckenridge's Oktoberfest is September 8-10, 2023, in the heart of scenic Breckenridge
Oktoberfest in Vail
Vail's Oktoberfest, scheduled for two-weekend stints on September 10-12 and 17-19
Fall in the Mountains of Colorado
While you're here for Oktoberfest, explore the breathtaking beauty of fall in Summit County, Colorado. As the leaves begin to change, the mountains and valleys explode in a vibrant display of orange and yellow. The crisp autumn air and stunning fall colors make for unforgettable hiking, biking, and sightseeing. Whether you take a scenic drive over Loveland Pass, hike the trails around Dillon Reservoir, or try our Aerial Adventure Park or Via Ferrata, experiencing fall in Summit County is a must. The picturesque landscape provides the perfect backdrop for a post-Oktoberfest adventure.
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If you're looking for a unique way to welcome in the autumn, Oktoberfest in Colorado is the place to be. It's the perfect way to immerse yourself in German culture, make new memories with friends and family, and enjoy the cooler temperatures. Whether attending our Arapahoe Basin Oktoberfest, Breckenridge's Festival, Keystone, or Vail's Festival, you'll have an unforgettable experience. With all the endless entertainment, food, and drinks, there is never a shortage of things to do or see. Make sure to don your best lederhosen or dirndl dress, and come join the fun!
Prost!
