Oktoberfest returning to Encinitas

Steins of frothy beer, sizzling bratwurst, Bavarian oompah bands and even dogs in lederhosen—it’s all happening at the Encinitas Oktoberfest on Sunday, September 28 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. This beloved community tradition and premier Oktoberfest in San Diego County is back for its 29th year, bigger and better than ever, and it’s completely free to attend.

For the second year, festivalgoers can cheer on furry friends in the Moonlight Veterinary Center Dog Costume Contest, where pups parade in their best German-themed outfits for prizes. The action doesn’t stop there: two lively beer gardens will be pouring everything from authentic German brews to local craft favorites, including Societe Brewing, Burgeon Beer Co., RationAle Brewing, Fox Point Brewing – and new this year is Tap Truck, dispensing beer from a 1921 Buick. Bivouac Cider will be pouring in the Craft Tent, and food tents will tempt you with sizzling sausages, schnitzel, pretzels, and traditional fare from Tarantino’s Gourmet Sausage and Taste of Poland.

Live Bavarian music, dance troupes, and a ceremonial parade at noon set the festive tone, while over 125 local artisan vendors transform Mountain Vista Drive into a lively marketplace where you can support local businesses and eat, drink and be merry while shopping for unique crafts, jewelry and handmade goods. Bright Kids is sponsoring the kids play zone with inflatable slides, an obstacle course, games and a rock-climbing wall —ensuring fun for the whole family.

And of course, what’s Oktoberfest without competitions? Guests can join the Stein Holding Contest for adults and kids, and win prizes from local attractions.

“Encinitas Oktoberfest brings the best of Bavaria to the California coast and is the perfect way to kick off the fall season,” said Encinitas Chamber of Commerce and Visit Encinitas CEO Sherry Yardley. “Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor, this event offers a unique blend of tradition, community, and entertainment that you won’t want to miss.”

The festival spans 1/3 of a mile along Mountain Vista Drive off El Camino Real, between Wandering Road and Rambling Road, and draws over 15,000 guests each year. A free shuttle sponsored by D Street Boardroom will run to and from the Flora Vista Elementary School parking lot to the corner of Mountain Vista & Wandering Road from 10:45 a.m. to 7:15 p.m. Additionally there will be a bike valet hosted by the City of Encinitas at each end of the event. Water refill stations also make it easy (and eco-friendly) to enjoy the day.

The German roots of Encinitas go back to the northeastern colony of Olivenhain which was founded by German farmers in 1884. The Encinitas Oktoberfest coincides with Germany’s start of Oktoberfest in mid-September.

So grab your stein, lace up your dancing shoes, and don’t forget Fido’s lederhosen—Encinitas Oktoberfest is where fall fun begins! Prost! More details are available online.