Dates, Location & Hours
When is this year’s Denver Oktoberfest?
Weekend 1: September 18-20, 2026
Weekend 2: September 25-27, 2026
Where is Denver Oktoberfest located?
The event is located in Downtown Denver’s Ballpark neighborhood on Larimer Street, between 20th and 22nd Streets (Main entrance at 21st and Larimer St.)
What are the festival hours?
Fridays: 3:00 PM – Midnight
Saturdays: 11:00 AM – Midnight
Sundays: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Admission & VIP Tickets
Do I need a ticket to attend Denver Oktoberfest?
Nope, general admission is free! No, general admission is completely FREE! Anyone can enter the festival grounds, enjoy the live music, and check out the vendors without a ticket.
You can choose to purchase upgraded Jägermeister VIP Tickets
What is included with my Jägermeister VIP Ticket?
The Jägermeister VIP Ticket is an all-inclusive upgrade that includes:
- An official commemorative Denver Oktoberfest stein.
- Unlimited draft beer and wine, plus 2 ice-cold Jägermeister shots.
- Unlimited German food, appetizers, and late-night bites.
- Access to a private VIP lounge with dedicated restrooms, private bar, exclusive seating, lawn games, and live sports coverage sponsored by Tom’s Watch Bar.
Where do I purchase a Jägermeister VIP Ticket?
You can purchase your Jägermeister VIP Tickets online in advance or buy them on-site at the VIP tent during the event (subject to availability).
Can VIP tickets be purchased on-site?
Yes! VIP tickets can be purchased anytime throughout the event at the VIP tent (subject to availability).
I bought VIP tickets online. Where do I go to check in?
All VIP ticket holders should go to the VIP tent to scan your ticket, pick up your wristband and stein.
I am brining my underage kids with my to the event. Do they need VIP tickets as well/
No, kids can enter VIP free with a parent.
I’m a designated driver. Can I get a discount on VIP tickets?
Designated drivers may enter VIP for $25. Please pay in-person at the VIP tent.
Activities & Contests
How do I sign up for the Long Dog Derby?
The Long Dog Derby is open to friendly, well-behaved wiener dogs of all ages! It’s easily one of our most popular (and adorable) events of the weekend, and spots fill up fast. Learn more and sign up here.
How do I sign up for the Sausage-Eating Contest?
You can secure your spot in the competition by registering online here. Space is limited, so early sign-ups are highly recommended!
How do I participate in the Stein Hoisting Championship?
Contestants can qualify for the Steinhoisting Championships on the Steinhoisting Stage at any point starting the first day of Denver Oktoberfest and prior to 5:00pm MST on Saturday (9/26). There is no sign-up or fee required to participate, but only the top ten (10) times will make the championship round.
How do I enter the daily Costume Contests?
No advanced sign-up is necessary. Grab your best dirndl or lederhosen and listen for the stage emcee, who will call contestants up to the stage 15 minutes prior to the daily competition.
Where can I find the Silent Disco, Keg Bowling, and Live Music?
All entertainment schedules, stage locations, and activity times will be posted on our main festival schedule page and marked on map displays throughout the venue.
Where can I see the full event schedule and lineup?
We are currently finalizing our entertainment lineup and daily activities! A complete schedule featuring stage times, live bands, and specific event activations will be posted on our website closer to the festival dates.
Food, Drink & Steins
Where can I purchase an official Denver Oktoberfest Stein?
Steins can be pre-ordered online, or purchased at the merch tent, or at any of our beer booths around the event.
I pre-ordered a stein. Where do I pick it up?
All pre-ordered general merchandise and steins can be collected at the main Merch Tent. (Note: VIP ticket holders pick up their steins at the VIP tent).
Can I bring my own stein?
Yes! You are welcome to bring steins from previous years or other events. Please note that bartenders may pour your beer into a standard cup first to ensure accurate measurement before filling your personal stein.
Is there anything besides beer?
Yes! In addition to our beer selection, we serve wine, seltzers, and non-alcoholic options. The VIP lounge also features a private cocktail bar with spirits available for purchase.
Are there gluten-free, vegan, or non-alcoholic options available?
Yes! Our official brewery lineup is typically announced in early September, we always ensure a variety of beverage options are available, including gluten-free seltzers, wine, and non-alcoholic choices. For food, our individual food vendors offer a diverse range of items, many of which include gluten-free and vegetarian options.
Family, Pets & Accessibility
Is Denver Oktoberfest family-friendly, and are strollers allowed?
Yes! The festival is an all-ages, family-friendly community event. Strollers and wagons are welcome everywhere on the festival grounds. Daytime hours (especially Sundays during the Long Dog Derby) are highly recommended for families. Please note that Friday and Saturday evenings feature larger crowds and a more adult, party-centric atmosphere.
Can I bring my dog to the festival?
Absolutely! You’re welcome to bring your well-behaved furry friends! Please ensure your pet handles large crowds, loud music, and always clean up after them.
What are the age requirements for drinking?
You must be 21+ to purchase or consume alcohol. A valid government-issued ID is required at all beverage stations to receive an age-verified wristband.
Directions, Parking & Logistics
Where is the best place to park for Denver Oktoberfest?
Because the festival takes place directly on Larimer Street, street parking in the Ballpark neighborhood is highly limited. We strongly recommend utilizing public transit, rideshares, or parking in one of the public parking garages located within walking distance of 21st and Larimer.
What is the best way to get to the festival using public transit?
Taking the RTD Light Rail is one of the easiest ways to get to the festival. The venue is just a short walk from Union Station (servicing the A, B, G, N, and commuter lines) or the 20th/Welton Station (servicing the L Line).
Are there designated rideshare drop-off zones?
If you are taking an Uber or Lyft, we recommend setting your destination drop-off point to a block or two away from the street closures, ideally near 20th and Lawrence Street or 22nd and Lawrence Street, to avoid festival traffic.