St. Paul Oktoberfest 2025 – A Bavarian Celebration at the Germanic-American Institute

Get ready to shout “Prost!” because St. Paul Oktoberfest is returning to the Germanic-American Institute (GAI) this September. On Friday, September 12 (4–10 p.m.) and Saturday, September 13 (10 a.m.–10 p.m.), Summit Avenue will transform into a lively Bavarian-style festival packed with food, music, and authentic German fun.

Complete info on the event’s blog: https://www.gaimn.org/calendar/oktoberfest-2025/

🎶 Festival Highlights

  • Free Admission – Everyone is welcome, no ticket required.

  • Beer & Wine – $10 wristbands (ages 21+ with valid ID) let you enjoy all the traditional brews and wines.

  • Historic Haus Tours – Step inside the GAI for guided tours on Friday at 5 p.m., and Saturday at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m.

  • Family-Friendly Fun – Crafts, story time, dancing, contests, and more for kids and adults alike.

🥨 Food & Drink You’ll Love

Come hungry, because this event features some of the best German and local eats in the Twin Cities:

  • Fresh baked pretzels from Aki’s Pretzels

  • Golden potato pancakes from Burbach’s

  • Authentic bratwurst and spätzle from local favorites

  • Sweet treats like homemade cakes and strudel

Pair it all with cold Paulaner beer or German wine, and you’ll feel like you’re right in Munich.

🎭 Entertainment Lineup

The Festzelt (festival tent) will be buzzing with live music and performances all weekend long:

  • Bavarian Musikmeisters set the mood with traditional tunes

  • Keg tapping ceremony kicks off the festivities

  • Polka Police, Edelweiss Dancers, Jimi the Polka Pirate, and more will keep the energy high

  • Fun contests like the Dirndl & Lederhosen costume showcase add extra flair

🌟 Special Perks

Make your Oktoberfest even better with these extras:

  • Presale Drink Package – $23 gets you a limited-edition 0.5L Paulaner mug, a 2-day wristband, and discounted refills (available through Sept. 11).

  • Fanklub Membership – For $150, enjoy a Bavarian brunch, a collectible Lebkuchen heart, two drink tickets, and a Paulaner stein—plus shoutouts during the festival. Registration closes Aug. 29.

📍 Event Details at a Glance

  • When: Friday, Sept 12 (4–10 p.m.) & Saturday, Sept 13 (10 a.m.–10 p.m.)

  • Where: Germanic-American Institute, 301 Summit Ave, St. Paul, MN

  • Cost: Free entry, $10 drink wristbands for 21+

  • Parking: Free street parking nearby or $5 at Saint Paul College. Handicap spots available.

🎉 Why You Should Go

St. Paul Oktoberfest isn’t just about beer—it’s about celebrating German culture, food, and community right here in the Twin Cities. Whether you’re coming with friends, family, or just to enjoy the music, it’s the perfect way to kick off fall.

Don’t miss one of the best fall festivals in Minnesota! Gather your crew, grab a brat and a beer, and celebrate the season at St. Paul Oktoberfest 2025.

Complete info on the event’s blog: https://www.gaimn.org/calendar/oktoberfest-2025/