Most people know that Oktoberfest, the Bavarian cultural festival, is famous for beer. Lots and lots of beer. Less well known is the fact that Oktoberfest is actually held in September, not October. The festival’s name isn’t a mistake — when it originated in 1810 it was indeed held in October. But over time, Oktoberfest moved forward into Bavaria’s warmer autumnal evenings and has stayed that way ever since.
Edmontonians will surely appreciate the calendar shuffle when the Ice District’s third annual Oktoberfest kicks off on September 18.
The festival features a 30,000-square-foot beer tent, and offers visitors a chance to experience a taste of Bavarian culture, including food, music and Oktoberfest steins that can be purchased for keeps. The selection of German cuisine includes classics like schnitzel, sausages and sauerkraut, along with pretzels and strudel for dessert. Live music will mix traditional Bavarian performances (think lederhosen and accordions) with contemporary artists, and vendors and games make the event suitable for the whole family. And of course — there’s beer.
A standout from last year’s offerings is Fahr Brewery, a traditional German brewer based right here in Alberta. The brewery was founded by German-born Jochen Fahr, a biomedical engineer who turned his love for homebrewing into a business that produces award-winning German-style beer. Fahr’s array of beers are a natural addition to this year’s festivities.
Oktoberfest — the one in Munich — is the largest beer festival in the world, and Edmonton has done its best to follow suit. Festival organizers say Edmonton’s Oktoberfest is the largest in Western Canada, thanks in part to the size of the venue. The event takes place in Fan Park, the outdoor space just east of Rogers Place that spans the width of the block. The site has increasingly become a go-to host for downtown events. In recent months it’s been home to everything from concerts to Oilers watch parties to Edmonton Pride, and it has events scheduled through October. The space is open for programming year round, including in the depths of winter. It turns out when it comes to cold weather celebrations, Edmonton has Bavaria beat.
Oktoberfest runs Sept. 18, 19, 25, 26, and Oct. 2, 3, 2026. Tickets are $36.50
