Fall brings to mind many things…a nip in the air, changing leaves, pumpkin spice lattes (for better or worse, they’re here to stay!), hot cocoa, carving pumpkins, apple-flavored everything, cozy sweaters and scarves…and the list goes on. But in the Great Smoky Mountains, fall means the return of an area favorite: OktOBERfest at Ober Gatlinburg! It’s here every year, and it’s an event you don’t want to miss. Along with having plenty of options for an adults-only weekend, it’s also family friendly enough to bring along the kiddos!
The traditional Oktoberfest celebration – based in Munich, Bavaria, Germany – began on September 21 and will run until October 6, 2019. It’s a celebration of all things Bavaria, and the one in Gatlinburg, TN each year follows that same formula. If you can’t make it all the way to Germany, or if the Smokies is your go-to spot, be sure you plan a few days to get to OktOBERfest in the Great Smoky Mountains!
13th Annual OktOBERfest at Ober Gatlinburg
Running September 23 – October 30, 2022, the 13th annual OktOBERfest will feature the best in Bavarian music, food, clothing, and more.
Foods
You’ll find plenty of German foods to fill up on, with annual favorites like schnitzel, bratwurst, pretzels, sauerkraut, strudel, turkey legs, and so much more. The Seasons of Ober restaurant and The Loft Lounge even have special OktOBERfest menus that feature everything from Brat ‘n Kraut Balls, Wurstsalat, and Frikadelle to Bauernschmaus, Kohlroladen, and Jägerschnitzel. Not up for Bavarian favorites? They have plenty of other options like mozzarella sticks, sandwiches, burgers, and more.
Drinks
You can wash all those delicious foods down with plenty of German biers in the Outdoor Bier Garten (for those 21 and over). Some on the menu this year include:
- Schulz Bräu Oktoberfest
- Schulz Bräu Munich Dunkel
- Schulz Bräu German Pilsner
- Franziskaner
- Spatan, Hofbräu Oktoberfest
- Hofbräu Original
- Warsteiner
- Sam Adam’s Octoberfest Ale
- Yee Haw Pale Ale
- Leinenkugel Oktoberfest
- Highland, Oatmeal Porter
- Yuengling Oktoberfest
Beer Cards are $20 (21 and over, with ID), and you can pick from 4 (16 oz) beers or 8 (7 oz) beers. You can also grab the classic 24 oz Boot of Beer.
Entertainment
Once again, the ever-favorite Smoky Mountain Oompah Band will be back to entertain! Dressed in their authentic lederhosen, they’ll treat guests to Bavarian folk dances, oompah music, sing-a-longs, yodeling, and more. Dance along as they make you feel like you’re in the middle of the Munich celebration!
Shopping
Stop by the Ober Mall and check out special OktOBERfest goods and gifts or pop into the vendor tent outside. And don’t forget the “Beer Necessities” kiosk for plenty of drink accessories.
Hours
Oompah Band | 1 pm, 3 pm, and 5 pm, Daily (arrive early for a seat!)
Bier Garten | 10 am – 5 pm, Sunday – Thursday| 10 am – 6 pm, Fridays and Saturdays
Gatlinburg Cabins for YOU
After an afternoon of drinks, dancing, and filling up on Bavarian foods, you’ll want a comfortable place to relax and unwind with family and friends. We have plenty of awesome cabins with game tables, board games, full kitchens, cozy living rooms with big screen TVs, movie rooms, spacious decks, and mountain views.
Please drink responsibly and have a designated driver or call an Uber if needed so you can make it safely back to your cabin!