The 59th Annual Columbus Oktoberfest is just around the corner, and it’s shaping up to be one of the biggest fests yet. Kicking off Friday, September 5 and running through Sunday, September 7, this beloved tradition will once again take over the Ohio Expo Center and Ohio State Fairgrounds with all the German food, music, dancing, and beer you can handle.
Recently recognized by USA TODAY as one of the top 10 Oktoberfests in the nation, Schmidt’s Columbus Oktoberfest is a celebration of German heritage that draws tens of thousands of visitors from across the Midwest each year. “We’re thrilled to host the 59th Annual Columbus Oktoberfest to celebrate our German heritage and one of central Ohio’s most cherished traditions,” said Carla Epler, Chief Operating Officer of Schmidt’s and Executive Director of the festival.
Here’s what you can expect at this year’s fest:
From three stages of live music and polka dancing to more than 80 vendors in the Marktplatz Pavilion, there’s no shortage of ways to eat, shop, and celebrate. And for the first time, this year’s lineup also includes paint-and-sip sessions with a local artist.
Worried about the weather? Don’t be! The event takes place in three massive halls designed to mimic the legendary beer halls of Germany, with more than 100,000 square feet of covered space.
Here are some of the highlights for 2025:
Test Your Strength at the Gemütlichkeit Games
Presented by Koorsen, these events have become a crowd favorite since 2021. Watch contestants attempt the Steinheben (508-pound stone lift) and Steinstossen (180-pound stone throw) among other feats of strength.
Family Fun at Kinderplatz
Bring the kids to Kinderplatz for free bounce rides, crafts, face painting, and special activities with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
Get Moving at the Meiler Vier Run/Walk
Throw on your lederhosen (or your running shoes) and join the four-mile race around the fairgrounds, complete with plenty of festive costumes.
Compete in the German Games
From cream puff eating to Mass Kruegstemmen (beer stein holding) and even yodeling contests, there’s something for everyone. The stein-holding contest also serves as a qualifier for the U.S. Stein Holding Association’s State Championship Tournament.
Eat, Drink, and Be Merry
Schmidt’s Restaurant & Sausage Haus will be serving all the favorites—bratwursts, Bahama Mamas, frankfurters, fried bologna, sauerkraut, and jumbo cream puffs (don’t miss the caramel apple cream puff, a recent fan favorite).
Know Before You Go
The 59th Annual Columbus Oktoberfest will be held rain or shine:
- Friday, September 5: 5 p.m. – Midnight
- Saturday, September 6: Noon – Midnight
- Sunday, September 7: Noon – 8 p.m.
Admission is free, parking is $15, and the event is cashless (fest cards are available on site). Best of all, a portion of the proceeds supports local charities.
With more than 15 live bands, endless food and beer, and family fun all weekend long, this year’s Columbus Oktoberfest is set to be one for the books. Prost!
For more info, visit columbusoktoberfest.com.
