The much-loved Oktoberfest tradition returns to the Vail Valley this year!
Lionshead September 8-10, 2023
Vail Village September 15-17, 2023
Grab your lederhosen and some friends because it’s that time of year again: Oktoberfest! Visitors and locals alike delight in the myriad of activities available in the hearts of Vail and Lionshead Villages.
Oktoberfest brings music straight to the crowd via the Bavarian and Rocktoberfest Stages. Performances feature Helmut Fricker and the Rhinelanders Band, Kory Montgomery Band, Average German Band and more! Helmut Fricker is a crowd favorite and local legend. His upbeat tunes draw crowds of energetic dancers to the stage and the atmosphere can’t be beat!
Attendees can spend time taking in the music, drinking beer from a stein and eating Bavarian delights from multiple food vendors. Or, they can participate in (or watch!) competitions including the Polidori Bratwurst Eating Contest, Keg Bowling and Stein Lifting Competition. Those with kiddos will love the Kidtoberfest area and dancing to the upbeat family-friendly bands!
Vail Oktoberfest is a fun and lighthearted event that everyone can enjoy. Depending on the weather, it often overlaps the beginning of leap peeping season in Colorado. We recommend leaving time for a hike, bike ride or drive to take in the beautiful scenery full of aspen trees beginning to turn to gold.
This event is free to enter! Food and drink can be purchased inside the gates. Prost packages are available.
To see the full schedule, click below.
September is a beautiful time to visit the Vail Valley. The days are still warm and the evenings crisp. Plus, accommodation rates are discounted greatly compared to peak season ski prices. If you need a place to stay during the festivities, Vail Butler can help!