Oktoberfest is upon us! This autumn festival in late September and early October held in Munich, Germany, is all about drinking beer. But Oktoberfest takes different forms in cities nationwide—and our craft beer-drinking town of Asheville is no different. Our region’s dozens of breweries throw incredible events, with seasonal Oktoberfest beers (think deeper, darker flavors), live music from local polka bands, and fantastic eats like bratwurst, pretzels, and spaetzle you won’t typically find throughout the year.
We’ve compiled a list of some of this year’s biggest events across Asheville and Western North Carolina. Take a look and plan your Asheville Oktoberfest getaway.
Shrektoberfest 2 at DSSOLVR
September 23, 2023 | 3-11 p.m.
Back again for its second year, Shrektoberfest is Asheville brewery DSSOVLR’s version of Oktoberfest with the addition of Shrek-themed festivities. From a costume contest to a dance party to special Shrektoberfest beer releases, this is one swampin’ party you won’t want to miss.
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Oktoberfest at Hillman Beer
September 30, 2023 | 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Dust off your dirndls and lederhosen for a fun day at Hillman Beer in the Biltmore Village area of Asheville. Grab a commemorative Hillman Beer stein by purchasing an Oktoberfest beer release while supplies last. Das Oompapas, an oompah band from Western North Carolina, will be playing from 3-6 p.m.
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Run the Oktoberfest Half Marathon & 5K
September 30, 2023 | 7:30 a.m.
Get ready for month-long Oktoberfest festivities with the Run the Oktoberfest Half Marathon & 5K! This run offers a picturesque race route that winds through the River Arts District, the historic Montford neighborhood, and West Asheville. After crossing the finish line, you can attend post-race festivities at the Hi-Wire Brewing Beer Garden with a complimentary beer.
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Asheville Oktoberfest
October 7, 2023 | 2-6 p.m.
The biggest Oktoberfest is this year’s Asheville Oktoberfest, held in Pack Square Park downtown. Featuring 20+ breweries and craft beverage makers, attendees can also participate in the Aloft Hotel Festival Games, eat from local food vendors, and listen to live local music. General admission and VIP tickets are now available!
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Oktoberfest at Oklawaha Brewing
October 7, 2023 | 1-11 p.m.
Local Hendersonville brewing Oklawaha Brewing is shutting down 1st Avenue for their Oktoberfest celebration this year! In collaboration with Continuum Art, this event will showcase art vendors up and down the street, beer tents, live bands, and games to get you in the festive spirit. Street closures begin at 11 a.m., art begins at 1 p.m., and beer tents open at 2 p.m.
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Celebration Release Party at Sierra Nevada Brewing
October 13, 2023 | 7 p.m.
Celebrate the release of Celebration IPA—a special beer from Sierra Nevada that’s as fresh as fallen snow. Hear performances from local bands Dangermuffin and Pink Beds while sipping festive beers from the newly tapped kegs.
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Burnpile Beer Festival at Forestry Camp
October 14, 2023 | 1-6 p.m.
Celebrate Oktoberfest a bit differently at Burial Brewing Co.’s annual Burnpile Beer Festival, which features a full-day concert from three musical acts alongside a tasting experience from a diverse lineup of more than 50 of the best breweries in the county.
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Oktoberfest at The Whale AVL
October 21, 2023 | 1-5 p.m.
Enjoy tasty beer, pretzels from The Brezel Bus starting at 2 p.m., fun, and games at this year’s Oktoberfest at The Whale in West Asheville.
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