Tulsa Oktoberfest Brings Tradition and New Experiences

Organizers promise German authenticity for patrons of all ages and interests.

Known for their modern take on traditional Bavarian music, Kasplattnrocker has been touring Europe for the better part of a decade.

Tulsa’s largest fall festival turns 35 this year. Set for October 17-20, Tulsa Oktoberfest is located at River West Festival Park on the west bank of the beautiful Arkansas River, and offers a long weekend of authentic German celebration, ­including live music, carnival; rides, games and of course, food and drinks, among numerous other attractions.

    Admission is $6 for adults and free for children 12 and under. The Autobahn pass is available online, ­allowing patrons to purchase admission and festival money ahead of time and bypass lines. On Family Friday, admission to the festival is free from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The carnival offers unlimited rides from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. with the purchase of a $15 wristband. Paid parking is available near the festival grounds at $5 and $10 or patrons can ride the free ­shuttles which run two routes through downtown and south Tulsa, near alternative parking areas.

    “Oktoberfest is a time-honored tradition for Tulsans and visitors alike,” says Festival Director Tonja Carrigg. “Oktoberfest offers entertainment, activities, and plenty of food and specialty beverages for everyone. It’s no surprise upwards of 60,000 people flock to Tulsa’s favorite Chicken Dance ­venue.”

    Live music is always a favorite and this year, several bands are traveling to Oktoberfest from Germany, including Kasplattnrocker, Penny’s Oktoberfest Projekt and Celle Fire Blaskapelle.

    Keeping with German tradition, numerous beer tents will feature a variety of great beer for all tastes. A total of 42 domestic and import beers will be available, including premium brands such as Warsteiner, Paulaner, Konig and Hofbrau. Beer tents include Der Biergarten, Der Bierkeller, Das Esszelt and Die Bierstube. Das Fassler Hall Stammtisch Zelt will feature brews from Tulsa’s Marshall’s Brewing Company, including a special recipe made exclusively for Tulsa’s Oktoberfest. Wine, mixed drinks and ­non-alcoholic beverages also will be served.

    A new commemorative beer stein will be offered for the first time this year. Called the Masskrug, this one-litre (33.8 fluid ounce) stein is designed to closely resemble the mug frequently used in Bavarian beer gardens and beer halls and is a staple of the Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany.

    In addition to drink options, Oktoberfest will offer more than a dozen ­different food vendors. Many local restaurants will be on site with a wide variety of menu choices for all tastes. Some highlights include Seigi’s sausage plate dinner, bratwurst pizza and Lanjaeger (German beef jerky). Ludger’s Weiner Schnitzel sandwich, apple strudel and Bavarian cheesecake will be available for purchase.

    The kids tent, Das Jugendzelt, will offer a variety of entertainment for children each day, including magic shows, circus skills ­presentations, live music, a science show and more.

    Authentic and German-inspired games are fun to play and watch. The Dachshund Dash is a race featuring “wiener dogs.” The McNellie’s Bier Barrel Race allows teams of six to ­compete for the fastest keg roll. The Masskrugstemmen, otherwise known as the Strong Stein, is an endurance competition where ­contestants hold full mugs of beer at arm’s length until there is a winner.

    The International Artisan Market is a comfortable area to shop and relax. While exploring the many booths, patrons can enjoy coffee and pastries sold by Foolish Things Coffee Company. 

For more information, contact

Tulsa Oktoberfest

www.tulsaoktoberfest.org