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A woman carries six large steins of beer.
Photograph: By Jonathan McPhail | Zum Schneider's Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest NYC 2023 guide

Pull on your lederhosen and celebrate Oktoberfest NYC 2023 with great brews, bratwurst, dancing and live music.

Rossilynne Skena Culgan
Written by
Rossilynne Skena Culgan
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The time has come to raise a beer stein and say “prost” to Oktoberfest in NYC! The Bavarian celebration’s events are among the best in town in September and October, featuring waves of beer and oodles of delicious food. So soak up the suds and a little fall foliage at our favorite beer gardens, compete in feats of strength and enjoy the festivities all season long.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to things to do in fall in NYC

What is Oktoberfest?

This traditional autumnal festival, which originated in Germany, is celebrated all over the United States by drinking copious amounts of beer, sporting lederhosen, munching on pretzels, polka dancing and merrymaking.

When is Oktoberfest?

Events run from September through the end of October 2023.

Why does Oktoberfest start in September?

The first Oktoberfest was held from October 12–17 in 1810 to honor the Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig’s marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. Supposedly, the celebration date was changed to the third week in September in the U.S. because of cold weather concerns.

Where is Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest celebrations take place in all five boroughs in New York City at various restaurants, bars and public spaces. Check out which ones are celebrating on our list of Oktoberfest events!

Oktoberfest NYC 2023