How to Celebrate Oktoberfest in Big Bear, California

The annual Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest in Big Bear, California is one of the premier Oktoberfest celebrations in the state. It takes place over six and a half consecutive weekends, beginning in September. This California resort town located in the mountains high above the Los Angeles Basin is the perfect place to celebrate this world renowned festival, honoring the best in Bavarian music, games, food and drinks.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Experience Oktoberfest in a Real Alpine Setting

1. Purchase tickets near the fairgrounds entrance for $10. Buy tickets in advance online and receive a free Sunday pass.
2. Attend opening ceremonies which begin at 1:30 p.m. on the event's first Saturday. Traditional opening day events such as the Oktoberfest Costume, the Riflemen's Parade and the Tapping of the Keg by the city's mayor help to kick off the festivities.
3. Attend Big Bear Oktoberfest over American Heroes Weekend. Military personnel, law enforcement officers and firemen get in free all weekend.
4. Celebrate Oktoberfest on Local's Night and get in free if you are a Big Bear area resident.
5. Save up to 25 percent and buy the Burgermeister Party Pack. You'll receive a 1-day admission ticket, a commemorative Oktoberfest beer stein, a German meal with all the fixings, a German beer or beverage of your choice and a set of party beads for one low price.
6. Find lodging in an area hotel or inn. Private homes, cabins and condominiums are available for rent, near the Big Bear Resort.
7. Compete with your friends in the O'Doul's Beer Drinking Contest that takes place every Saturday evening.
8. Participate in the famous Big Bear, California Log Sawing and Stein Holding contests held at various times throughout each day.
9. Visit the Outside Budenstrasse which offers a carnival-like setting and features a variety of game booths, exhibitors and a large petting zoo.
10. Celebrate Oktoberfest while enjoying live German-themed music, dance performances from popular artists such as the Cripple Creek Cloggers and the Franken Power Express Band.

Tips & Warnings

• All food and beverage transactions within the beer halls are done using script tickets.
• On Saturdays, after 6 p.m. only adults 21 years or older with a valid ID will be admitted. Please note that those families with children who are already inside the event grounds will not be asked to leave.