The best Oktoberfest celebrations in Chicago

Chicago's largest Oktoberfest celebration is returning to the heart of Fulton Market. Located just behind Restaurant Row at 171 N. Peoria St., this lively six-week German fest is pouring Hofbräu München beer imported directly from Germany. Guests can also expect Bavarian pretzels, brats, live German music, carnival games and more. 

Celebrate the arrival of fall in Lincoln Square at the Chicago German-American Oktoberfest, which sets up two gigantic tents in the neighborhood to serve liters of beer, stacks of pretzels and more German delicacies. The weekend also features a parade up Lincoln Avenue, live performances from four German bands and carnival games for the kids.

Revolution Brewing's annual Oktoberfest celebration takes shape just outside the brewery's Avondale taproom, where attendees are welcome to fill up on beer while enjoying German food, a lineup of live music, a stein-holding contest and more.

Taking place in and around Lakeview’s St. Alphonsus Church, this autumn event features the requisite selection of suds, brats, pretzels and two stages of Bavarian music along with sets from local cover bands like Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute. Activities include a stein-holding contest, polka dancing and a “Kinderfest” for the kiddos on Sunday. 

Brookfield Zoo's Carousel Plaza is transforming into a German-inspired celebration feature family-friendly fun with polka music, dancing, games, giveaways and more. The Oktoberfest event is included with admission and will offer a special seasonal menu with bratwurst, specialty beers, pretzels with cheese and more available for purchase.

The celebration at the DANK Haus German American Cultural Center in Lincoln Square might be the closest you'll get to the actual Oktoberfest without hopping on a plane. The festive evening will have authentic German food and beer, live music, games, a stein-holding competition, a ceremonial keg tapping and even a yodeling contest. Ticket sales support the non-profit organization's mission to preserve German culture, language and traditions in Chicago.

Dovetail Brewery and Begyle Brewing Company are teaming up once again for their annual fall bash in celebration of Oktoberfest. Taking place outside in the shared lot between the breweries, Oktoberfestiversary features special beer tappings (alongside favorites from Dovetail and Begyle), live music and delicious bites from food trucks, including Bad Johnny's, El Zorro Tacos and Soul & Smoke. A $5 suggested donation benefits local food pantry The Friendship Center.

Grab your dirndls and lederhosens and get ready to party at the second annual Old Town Oktoberfest. The three-day German-inspired fest will have brats, pretzels and German beer, plus live entertainment all weekend. Guests can also participate in stein-holding contests, and dance and sing the night away.