How to Celebrate Oktoberfest in St. Louis, Missouri

Celebrate Oktoberfest in St. Louis, Missouri in the Soulard Market Park, located on Lafayette and seventh Street. The Soulard Oktoberfest closely mimics traditions of the authentic Munich Oktoberfest with an Old World Celebration with its many large tents, authentic foods, music and dance happening all day long. At least 20,000 visitors typically turn out for the event, and visitors of all ages can find something of interest in the Family German Village.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• ID
• Clothing for inclement weather

1. Celebrate Oktoberfest in Soulard by making evening reservations in the German Tent. Reservations get you food and drinks, plus free parking and a shuttle pass.

2. Enjoy authentic music by several German bands, some actually hailing from Germany, that are lined up to play at the Soulard Oktoberfest. American bands are also present.

3. Become entranced by German folk dancing. The music and festivities continue through the day and night.

4. Take your family and children to the kids' area located on Lafayette Avenue between seventh and eighth Streets. Named Family Strasse, this area features face painting, carnival rides for kids and contests to entertain everyone.

5. Discover the decorated booths of Missouri high-school and German Clubs, where you'll find classes offering food, games and German-themed fun. Learn fun facts about Germany and German culture by viewing booths designed by competing high school students. Winners of the competition receive academic scholarships given by the Soulard Oktoberfest Benevolent Association, which is responsible for putting on the celebration.

6. Admire the large tents replicating the scenery from the original Oktoberfest held in Munich. You'll find different atmospheres and happenings in each.

7. Check out the World's Longest Bratwurst, truly a wonder to see, and a well-known attraction presented at the Soulard Oktoberfest in St. Louis each year.

8. Enjoy a variety of German and domestic beers, but take care not to bring your alcohol outside of designated areas.

Tips & Warnings

• Admisssion is free.
• The Soulard Oktoberfest celebration occurs in early October each year.
• Officials will remove you from the festival if you appear to have too much alcohol in your system. Enjoy your beers in moderation.

Resources

• More on Soulard Oktoberfest at Soulardoktoberfest.com