Who can resist the charm of fall? Despite the seasonal clichés that dominate social media—think salted caramel lattes, picturesque shots of changing leaves, and pumpkin everything—one autumn tradition stands out for many military families: Oktoberfest.
If you’ve had the privilege of being stationed in Germany, you’re likely already familiar with Oktoberfest festivities. For those who haven’t, here’s a little history from Britannica.com:
“Oktoberfest, an annual festival in Munich, Germany, is held over a two-week period and ends on the first Sunday in October. The festival originated on October 12, 1810, in celebration of the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria, who later became King Louis I, to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.”
While Oktoberfest has historical roots, today it's all about beer, good food, and celebration with friends and family. And even if you can’t make it to Munich's Oktoberfest, the largest folk festival in the world, don’t worry. You'll find Oktoberfest celebrations near many military bases, often extending the celebration well beyond the traditional early October finale.
Check out these Oktoberfest events at a military base near you.
If you’ve made a military relocation to Fort Belvoir, the Pentagon, Joint Base Andrews, Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, or any of the military bases in the DC area, you'll easily get your fill of beer, bratwurst, schnitzel, and outdoor activities during Oktoberfest.
While some events end in late September, others extend into October. Check out your base's MWR travel office for local info and discounts, and get more info on DC area Oktoberfest happenings on this Eventbrite list of Oktoberfest Events in DC.
Military families stationed at Robins AFB can take a quick trip to nearby Macon for Oktoberfest fun.
The Macon Beer Fest takes place on October 11, 2025, in historic downtown Macon. The fest features over 100 varieties of craft beer and wine, along with live music.
From costume contests to a 1-mile Beer Run, there's something for everyone!
The Oktoberfest Plant Riverside District in Savannah is the place to be every weekend from September 26 to October 18, 2025, if you're stationed at Fort Stewart or Hunter Army Airfield.
Immerse yourself in a world of German-themed activities and food, live polka music, and competitions like the pretzel toss and stein holding challenge. And don't miss the return of the popular Savannah Wiener Dog Race.
The San Antonio area loves to celebrate Oktoberfest. Find a list of events taking place beginning in September at All Events in San Antonio.
Though not in October, the nearby New Braunfels Wurstfest is legendary, and runs from November 7-16, 2025. This annual festival celebrates the area’s rich German heritage with food, music, dancing, carnival rides, and games; German, Texan, and domestic beer; and special events.
Your military family may be eligible for military discounts at these San Antonio events. Check in with each venue for more info!
Enjoy your beer with a view of the Pacific Ocean. If military life finds you in the San Diego area, nearby Ocean Beach is hosting the OB Oktoberfest October 10-11, 2025. Grab your lederhosen or dirndl and take in local bands throughout the weekend, along with loads of other festivities and contests.
The Hampton Roads region is brimming with Oktoberfest events. In the cities of Hampton, Yorktown, Virginia Beach, and Norfolk, there's no shortage of fall and Oktoberfest activities. Military discounts may apply. See below for details and dates near your location.
Military families at Fort Campbell, KY, can choose from a variety of Oktoberfest events across the state, though some may involve a drive. Live music, German food, games, and, of course, cold beer are on the menu. See Kentucky Oktoberfest events here.
The Tampa area will hold its annual Oktoberfest Tampa over three days from October 10-12, 2025 at the Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. Tampa's waterfront area is gearing up to host a giant Biergarten, where attendees will enjoy games, entertainment, and delicious food.
Known as one of the “Top 5 Oktoberfests in the Country,” a military discount of free entrance is offered to military and veterans, along with first responders.
Is there an Oktoberfest happening at a military installation near you? Please share it in the comments. In the meantime, Prost!
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