German American Central Society and Peoria Park District Present Peoria Oktoberfest

Willkommen to Central Illinois’ Biggest and Best Fest! This year’s festival has all your favorites with a few new things to put some guten in your tag!

The Peoria Park District and German-American Central Society united their efforts in 1996 to bring the first of the “signature events” planned for the RiverFront. Peoria’s Oktoberfest” is the Midwestern equivalent of the Munich Oktoberfest. This three-day event showcases German heritage through song, dance, food, drink, cultural exhibits and much more. Do not miss the talented German bands and musicians on multiple stages, vendors and much more! Put on your authentic German attire and head down to the RiverFront for a true cultural experience.

Peoria Oktoberfest 2nd Annual Dachshund Races: Think your Doxie has what it takes to win? Join us for fun, laughter, races and a dachshund costume contest. Prizes will be awarded!

When: Saturday September 21, 2024
Races start Saturday at 1:30pm.  Finals at 4:30pm.
Costume judging at 2:30pm
Where: Peoria Riverfront Festival Park

THE BASICS

What are those dresses the ladies are wearing? How do you sing a proper Ein Prosit? What’s the deal with these buttons? Fear not—we’ve got you covered with the basics of Oktoberfest.

Oooompah!

TRADITIONS

While the decades have changed since our beginning, the traditions remain the same.

THE SONGS

Our favorite german drinking songs are a big part of the Gemütlichkeit! Learn the song names, lyrics and more HERE

The lederhosen

leather shorts often with suspenders worn especially in Bavaria… and La Crosse

Traditionally worn by the royal family and grenadier corps, these leather shorts are both stylish and breathable. In recent years, common fest-goers have donned their own lederhosen to get the true Oktoberfest experience.

The dirndl

A dress style with tight bodice, short sleeves, low neck, and gathered skirt

Dirndl come in all styles, from the waschdirndl for everyday wear to the festtagsdirndl for special occasions. Whatever the style, careful how you tie your apron, ladies. The apron bow lets everybody know your marital status and availability. Tie it on the right-hand side and you’re taken. Wearing it on the left means you’re single and ready to mingle. Don’t care to broadcast whether you’re in the market? Just tie it in the middle.

Tickets:

All tickets are general admission. Ticket prices will increase on the day of the event.
ADVANCE TICKETS: $9 FRI AND SAT / $6 SUN -  $15 WEEKEND PASSES ARE AVAILABLE

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