How to Celebrate Oktoberfest in Covington, Kentucky

Covington, Kentucky boasts the unique historic landmark of MainStrasse Village, where Oktoberfest has been celebrated since 1978. A rich German heritage can be found in MainStrasse Village. The people of Covington (1/3 of whom have German ancestry) have helped keep the German culture alive through community traditions, foods, music and events. Held in early September, Oktoberfest in MainStrasse Village is one of the most popular celebrations of its kind within Kentucky and surrounding states, regularly drawing 225,000 people from local and faraway areas.

Things You'll Need

• Clothing to accommodate inclement weather
• Comfortable shoes

Instructions

1. Bring your walking shoes. Oktoberfest in Covington, Kentucky extends over six city blocks on the sixth Street Promenade, reaching through Philadelphia Street, Main Street and Goebel Park. With beer, lederhosen, sausages, umlaut, and oompah music, you won't want to miss any of the festivities!

2. Let children celebrate Oktoberfest at the Kinderplatz, an area full of rides and activities for kids, located in Goebel Park.

3. Celebrate Oktoberfest with a wide range of German music, from rock-n-roll to country and polka. There's dancing each day in Goebel Park at the Goose Girl Statue.

4. View the art and crafts booths, where nearly 100 artists display work at Covington's Oktoberfest each year.

5. Get your fill of German culture by enjoying the beer, sauerkraut and sausages made especially for the Covington, Kentucky Oktoberfest.

6. Be sure not to miss the Keg Tapping Ceremony. Each day of the Covington Oktoberfest begins with this traditional event!

7. Listen to the tolling of the German Gothic Carroll Chimes Bell Tower. This historic tower is located on sixth and Philadelphia Streets. The clock contains 21 colorful, mechanical figures that move along with the glockenspiel chime.

8. Stroll over to the Amusement Midway located in the fifth Street parking lot, where you can find many fun rides--and, of course, the giant ferris wheel.

9. Check out the Oldenburg Brewery, which offers daily tours and is full of beer memorabilia and a beer museum. It's located just off of I-75 at exit 186.

Tips & Warnings

• Oktoberfest in Covington is usually held in mid-to-early September.

• Book your hotel room early if you're planning on attending the Oktoberfest celebration. With all the people coming in from out of town, space fills up quickly.

Resources

• Oktoberfest in MainStrasse website