When travelers are looking for a place to take a break from the hustle of life, Big Bear, California provides a captivating scene to enjoy. Here, the beauty of nature and easy access to fun go hand in hand. Those heading this way in the fall will have even more to enjoy! If you happen to be someone with a passion for great flavors and are looking to get in on the best of German culture too, then Big Bear, CA Oktoberfest is the event for you!
Nine Weekends of Oktoberfest Fun
Each year, Oktoberfest in Big Bear is an event that’s highly anticipated by locals and visitors alike. While the 2026 Big Bear Octoberfest dates are yet to be announced; typically the festival is slated to run on weekends from September through October. This gives travelers plenty of time to get in on the flavorful fun no matter when their plans bring them to town. As the leaves change colors across Big Bear and temperatures begin to fall, October is a great time to make the most of Oktoberfest fun. This event is designed to put an emphasis on making amazing memories alongside family and friends while enjoying the opportunity to be a part of German culture as well. Guests are invited to come out in their Dirndls and Lederhosen to participate in the festivities in authentic style. 2026 marks the 56th Oktoberfest in Big Bear and it’s shaping up to be incredible. There will be plenty of mountain charm to go around alongside full regalia, German music, and fun contests too.
Getting to Oktoberfest
While guests are certainly free to drive themselves to Oktoberfest, there are also free and convenient rides to the entertainment sites offered thanks to the Big Bear Trolley. This is a safe and convenient option for those who are looking to enjoy tasting sessions on-site without having to worry about designating a driver for afterward. The Big Bear Trolley will be shuttling Oktoberfest participants to the Big Bear Lake Convention Center where the vast majority of the events take place each weekend. The drop-off will be integrated into the trolley’s normal route during Oktoberfest making it easier than ever to get around. This eliminates the need to expand local parking and is a great way for festival goers to get from point A to point B safely and stress-free.
Beers You Can Enjoy During Your Visit
It’s fair to say that a true highlight of each Oktoberfest in Big Bear is the chance for attendees to make the most of sampling some of Germany’s (and California’s) finest brews! This year, as in years past, there will be a wide variety on-site to enjoy ranging from Spaten and Franziskaner to Warsteiner, and Konig Ludwig to name a few. When these are enjoyed within Big Bear’s alpine scenery and surrounded by German heritage, it’s easy to feel like you’ve been transported straight to the heart of Munich. Guests can enjoy two full-service bars inside the Convention Center and no less than four beer gardens outside. Whether you spend time at the Sports Garten, Tiki Bar, Warsteiner Bier Garten, or the High-Altitude Beer Garden, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Entertainment to Check Out
Beyond the German beer and fare, Oktoberfest in Big Bear is packed with fun activities and entertainment for guests. There are a variety of contests on the calendar for this event including log sawing, stein holding, a children’s pretzel toss, and a safe slam chug as well. There will also be a collection of carnival-style games on-site for attendees as well as a live entertainment lineup.
Book Today
A trip to Big Bear is always something to look forward to and when travelers book their accommodations through Big Bear Vacations, they can enjoy the luxury, comfort, and style they deserve as well. Reach out today to learn more about our exciting and inviting vacation rental options and how we can help you get settled into the right home-away-from-home for your Oktoberfest fun!
