Published by Jeremy. Last Updated on April 22, 2024.
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We have a soft spot for all things Oktoberfest, and after getting to enjoy the celebration in Munich for its wild party, we love checking out all of the Pittsburgh Oktoberfest celebrations that take place throughout September (and spill into October).
As there are no shortage of events taking place in breweries and other public places, we thought we would share a few of the top Oktoberfest events you may want to consider. Prost!
Oktoberfest at Penn Brewery
In Pittsburgh, there is no party quite like Penn Brewery's Oktoberfest. The celebration takes place over two weekends, September 15th-17th and 22nd-24th in 2023, with fun, food, music, and German brews served indoors and in the outdoor beer garden.
Seating at this one is first come, first served outside of a small selection of VIP packages open for reservation at night. Children are welcome until 8 PM when the event becomes 21+ only.
Penn Brewery is located at 800 Vinial Street in the North Side.
Pennsylvania Bavarian Oktoberfest in Canonsburg
In the mood for a larger Oktoberfest celebration that doesn't revolve around a single brewery? Washington County's annual Pennsylvania Bavarian Oktoberfest is the place to be. Taking place in Canonsburg on September 15th-17th, 2023, the festival includes two stages of live music, German and American food, a craft area for kids, carnival rides and games, and, of course, beer!
More information about the Pennsylvania Bavarian Oktoberfest can be found on their Facebook page.
Rocktoberfest by Beers of the Burgh
The team behind one of the region's premier beer festivals, Beers of the Burgh, is back with a fun take on the traditional Oktoberfest with Rocktoberfest. Beer, rock and roll, and more at South Side Works? We can get behind that.
In 2023, Rocktoberfest will take place at South Side Works Town Square on September 16th from 4 to 10 PM. The event is free to attend and will feature beers from Old Thunder Brewing Company, Fermata Brewing Company, Levity Brewing, and Inner Groove Brewing. A sampling pass will be available for purchase to enjoy four 5-ounce pours, one from each brewery, for $10. Food options include Pita My Shawarma, Smokin' Ghosts BBQ, Taquitos, Slice on Broadway, Vaya Food Truck, and Feathers Feed.
More information about Rocktoberfest can be found on their Facebook page.
Oktoberfest in Eleventh Hour's German Village
You may be aware that the space Eleventh Hour Brewing is in was once part of the factory run by Charles Brown III, who famously constructed the Bayernhof House (now museum) in O'Hara Township. Naturally, it should be no surprise that the Lawrenceville space has some German elements hidden away, too. Eleventh Hour will show off their “secret German Village” during their Oktoberfest on September 22nd, 23rd, 29th, and October 6th and 7th!
Each Oktoberfest date has a different themed event or promotion, including a stein-holding competition on the 22nd, Oktoberfest trivia on the 29th, and more. So be sure to check out their Facebook post on the event to learn more!
Eleventh Hour Brewing is located at 3711 Charlotte Street in Lawrenceville.
VOktoberfest – Vegan Oktoberfest at Velum
Looking to get into the Oktoberfest spirit but don't want a meat-heavy dining menu? Velum Fermentation is partnering with the Pittsburgh Vegan Expo for a unique, vegan-focused event aptly called VOktoberfest!
This unique take on Oktoberfest takes place on September 16th, 2023, from 4-9 PM at Velum in South Side and includes vegan food, beer by Velum, art and products, live music, a Skeeball competition, and more!
Velum Fermentation is located at 2120 Jane Street in South Side.
Golden Age Oktoberfest
Finally, we come to Golden Age Beer Co in Homestead- known for making an array of Old World beer styles. Based on their brews of choice, it should be no surprise this one is getting into the Octoberfest fun from September 15th to October 1st. On the first day they'll be conducting a traditional O'Zapft tapping of the keg ceremony and will be unveiling two Oktoberfest brews for the celebration. On opening day the pours will be served straight from the kegs in true German style.
Other fun events with live music will be taking place throughout the month as well!
Golden Age Beer Co is located at 337 E 8th Avenue in Homestead, PA.
Do you have a favorite Oktoberfest in Pittsburgh or nearby? Comment below to share!
