While more than a dozen Oktoberfests have sprung up in various communities around the region, the granddaddy of them all, and the one most often referred to as “the Oktoberfest,” is Mount Angel’s annual event.
Heading into its 59th year, it is no surprise that Mount Angel Oktoberfest organizers are anticipating hundreds of thousands of visitors to descend on the modest hamlet that’s home to roughly 3,400 residents. It’s a tall order for the town, and a welcome one with all hands-on deck.
The 2024 fest strikes up around late morning on Thursday, Sept. 12, and runs through Sunday afternoon, Sept. 15.
The “largest folk festival in the Northwest” is bringing back all the favorites, from the biergarten and Weingarten to vendors, car shows, dance parties and, who could forget, wiener dog races.
What’s on tap?
Who could have an Oktoberfest without polka and Germanic music? The lineups across the numerous venues are bountiful, from “yodeling superstar” Manuela Horn in the Biergarten to a spate of traditional dancers from the region.
In said Biergarten, as well as the Weingarten and Alpinegarten, musical acts are abound for adults who choose to purchase a wristband to take in the merriment.
Across the multitude of “gartens,” the Mount Angel Oktoberfest has over 30 beers, about 20 wines, several ciders and soda and water available.
And come hungry — with more than 40 food booths, there will be something for everyone (not to mention sausage, sauerkraut and bratwurst).
Venue admission
Once again this year, admission to all of the four days of festivities is free, except for adult wristbands to the Biergarten, Weingarten and Alpinegarten.
One wristband gets you access to all three venues, so pop in and out as you please. The cost is $10 Thursday, $20 Friday and Saturday and $15 Sunday. A $5 discount is offered to active personnel or veterans on Friday.
Planning to extend your fun? Purchase an all-festival pass to come and go to the venues all four days for $50.
Once all the bills are paid and a nest egg is set aside for next year’s Oktoberfest, the remaining profits are shared with local churches, schools and service groups. According to festival planners, Mount Angel Oktoberfest has distributed more than $3.5 million in the 58 years.
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