The festivities for the original Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany have officially begun, but you don’t need to hop on a plane to take part in the boozy festivities! There are a few festivals and events happening right here in Ontario. Whether you know why you’re celebrating or not (we believe the origins of the festival have something to do with crown prince of Bavaria’s marriage back in the 1800s, but who’s keeping track anyway), you can plan a beer-filled daytripper through these five Oktoberfest events in Ontario.
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest
This is the big one! Kitchener-Waterloo has been home to the second-largest Oktoberfest in the world for over 40 years. The festivities this year, held from Sept. 27 to Oct. 19, features something for everyone, from kid-focused festivities to DOGtoberfest, which includes a pup triathlon and a Super Dogs performance. Visit the region for a look at the 14-foot ‘Wunderwagon’ mobile stage that will be cruising around Waterloo featuring local performers. Plus, a whole host of local restaurants will be offering Oktoberfest features throughout the weeks along with special weekend activities as part of the organization’s Festhallen celebrations. The entertainment lineup at participating venues includes The Reklaws, Simple Plan, Matthew Good and more. You’ll find plenty of Biergartens and traditional food to partake in the celebrations!
German Canadian Club’s London Oktoberfest
As London’s German cultural hub, it’s no surprise that the German Canadian Club will be putting on the city’s Oktoberfest celebrations. Featuring authentic German entertainment from Oct. 25-26, prepare to see Canada’s polka king, Walter Ostanek, Concordia Club’s Enzian Schuhplattler Verein — performing traditional Bavarian dance — cover band Sold For Sheep and award-winning Twin City Alpine Echo. If you’re looking for a VIP experience, grab premium tickets that include an Oktoberfest T-shirt, a bier stein, dedicated table service and more.
Muskoka Oktoberfest
Happening from Oct. 25-26, Muskoka Oktoberfest is back with its annual music, culinary and beer festival taking place across breweries and restaurants in Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes and Georgian Bay. Participating restaurants will be providing traditional German fare, including sausages, pretzels, potato pancakes, sauerkraut, spätzle and more — but with a Muskoka spin that could include top local ingredients such as cranberries or maple. Beer lovers can also hop on the Brew Bus for a tour of four local breweries. The live music schedule is still being announced, but a few confirmed artists include Boston Levi, traditional Oktoberfest music with Weiss Blau Band and Christina Hutt.
Royal City Brewing Co.’s Oktoberfest
Take a trip to Guelph for Royal City Brewing Co.’s annual Oktoberfest celebrations from Sept. 27-29. Enjoy live music, German-inspired food, seasonal beers, traditional games and even some activities for kids! For the competitive at heart, take part in the stein-holding competition or pretzel-eating contest — and then celebrate your prowess with a visit to the beer hall for a hard-earned drink. Dance and sing to the sounds of traditional Bavarian band Wildbahn, cover band The Flamingos and more, and bring the kids for a bouncy castle, face painting, hot dogs and ice cream!
Toronto Oktoberfest
If you don’t want to travel at all for good beer and great fun, head to Downsview Airport Lands for Toronto Oktoberfest. Featuring themed entertainment, traditional food and drink and beer, beer and more beer, festival rules encourage you to dress in traditional garb, introduce yourself to strangers and compliment your tablemates as much as possible — and sing, laugh and dance all day long! Plus, an attempt to speak German, even if all you know is “hallo,” is always appreciated.
