Prost! Celebrate German Culture and Heritage at This Year’s Oktoberfest

annual Chippewa Falls celebration features sauerkraut eating contest, stein holding competition, and keg rolling – and so much more!

V1 Staff, photos by Taylor Smith

Time to dust off those Lederhosen! The 17th annual Chippewa Falls Oktoberfest celebration is slated for Sept. 17-18 at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, highlighting traditional German music, food, and – of course! – beer.  This year will bring new kids’ activities and Glockenspiel acts, as well as some local favorite competitions, such as stein holding, sauerkraut eating, and keg rolling.

The weekend kicks off with the announcement of the Festmeister and Festmeisterin at the Leinenkugel’s Brewery grounds at noon on Friday, followed by the Golden Keg procession to the fairgrounds and the tapping of the Golden Keg. Enjoy more than 30 entertainers, vendors, authentic foods, and plenty of dancing!

You won’t want to miss the Sheepshead and Euchre card tournament, on-grounds parade, the Kid’s Kingdom, live entertainment, the Brass Barn Polka Band, face painting, local musicians, magician Kevin Hall, and so much more.

Snag a two-day wristband online at www.gochippewacounty.com/oktoberfest for $15 or a single-day admission for $10. A weekend package is also available for $35, as well as package deals for individuals, couples, and friends. (Also: Take a look at this year’s Oktoberfest steins!) Parking is $5. Check out their website for more info. And, until then: Gemutlichkeit! Prost to 2021!