How to Celebrate Oktoberfest in Cleveland

Cleveland hosts two popular Oktoberfest celebrations each year. The Labor Day Oktoberfest is the largest event of its kind in the city and takes place annually over the holiday weekend. The 4-day festival is held at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds. The second Oktoberfest event is held later in September and at the Tower Center Amphitheater. Known as the Midwest Oktoberfest, this event's inaugural year was 2005 and is growing in popularity. Beer gardens, carnival games, arts and crafts booths and live musical performances help festival participants celebrate the finest Bavarian traditions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Plan Your Cleveland Oktoberfest

1. Book a room at the Ramada Airport South. This hotel is located less than half a mile from the Cuyahoga Fairgrounds and is the official hotel and meeting place of the Labor Day Oktoberfest.
2. Plan your trip to Cleveland to celebrate Oktoberfest at least 3 months in advance if you are seeking lodging in the city's downtown district.
3. Purchase e-Tickets at reduced prices for the Labor Day Oktoberfest. Admission tickets at the main gate are more expensive.
4. Park for free at both Cleveland area Oktoberfests, or take public transportation.
5. Volunteer at either event. Proceeds from each benefit local affiliates of national charities such as the American Cancer Society, Make-A-Wish Foundation, March of Dimes and the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Enjoy Oktoberfest

6. Explore exhibits at the Cleveland Labor Day Oktoberfest such as the Art Market, the Vintage and Antique Car Show and the German Dog Show.
7. Visit the Clock Building and learn how the Germans make watches or drop by the International Dance Exhibition and watch dancers perform dances from all across the world.
8. Visit one of the Oktoberfest tents. The International Pavilion, Traditional Music Tent and Bier Garden are among the most visited tents at the fairgrounds.
9. Watch an exciting skill competition or contest such as the Weiner Dog Races, Cornhole Tournament, 5K Bier Run and Celebrity Keg Tapping events.
10. Enjoy a live musical performance. Alphornist Laura Nelson is always a feature act at the Labor Day Oktoberfest, as are the German Oompa bands.
11. Celebrate Oktoberfest while feasting on German cuisine ranging from cream puffs and blintzes to bratwurst and pickled pigs feet.

Tips & Warnings

• Carry cash because vendors do not accept credit cards.
• Pets are not allowed at either of the fairgrounds.