The Top 5 Oktoberfests in Denver, Boulder, and the Mountains
A local guide to Denver Oktoberfest 2025, Boulder beer fests, and mountain town celebrations
By Brandon Axley
I moved to Germany at the age of 19 and lived there for many years. Now, a decade and a half later, I can confirm that the Germans do indeed love to drink. Most of my own drinking escapades took place at the Hessian Kirmes—a lively village fair that pops up across the countryside with beer tents, carnival rides, and brass bands—or at the local Kneipe (pub). But no one can deny the unmatched spectacle of the main event down south in neighboring Bavaria: Oktoberfest.
Oktoberfest began in Munich in 1810 to celebrate the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. What started with simple horse races soon grew into a folk festival filled with beer tents, music, parades, and hearty food. Today, it stands as the world’s largest Volksfest.
But you don’t need to travel all the way to Bavaria to get into the spirit of the Wiesn’ (as locals call it). Colorado has proudly embraced the tradition, blending Bavarian culture with mountain-backdrop flair.
Here are the top five Oktoberfests for those of us living in the Denver Metro and Boulder areas:
1. Vail Oktoberfest
Breckenridge Oktoberfest
Dates: September 5–7 (Lionshead Village) & September 12–14 (Vail Village), 2025
Why go: Vail’s alpine setting makes this one of the most picturesque Oktoberfests in the U.S. Expect stein-lifting and brat-eating contests, alpenhorn blowing, Bavarian dancing, and plenty of Paulaner beer. Families will love the daytime activities, while evenings bring out the music and dancing in the streets.
2. Breckenridge Oktoberfest
Dates: September 12–14, 2025
Why go: Breck turns its historic Main Street into a Bavarian village, complete with collectible steins, keg tapping, live Oompah music, and a festive 5K run. German food vendors line the street with bratwurst, pretzels, and sauerkraut, making this one of the most authentic mountain town celebrations.
3. Denver Oktoberfest (Ballpark District)
Denver Oktoberfest
Dates: September 19–21 & September 26–28, 2025
Why go: Running strong since 1969, Denver’s Oktoberfest is one of the largest in the country, attracting more than 350,000 people. Don’t miss the Long Dog Derby (yes, a dachshund race), keg bowling, stein hoisting, live bands, and endless beer tents. Free admission makes it especially popular for both locals and visitors.
4. Steamboat Springs “OktoberWest”
Castle Rock Oktoberfest
Dates: September 5–6, 2025
Why go: This mountain town puts its own Western spin on the Oktoberfest tradition. The event features craft brewers from across Colorado, live music, and a beef cook-off. It’s more laid-back than Denver or Vail, but no less spirited—a great choice for those who love combining small-town charm with Bavarian flavor.
5. Castle Rock Oktoberfest
Date: September 20, 2025
Why go: Just south of Denver, Castle Rock’s festival brings the Oktoberfest spirit to a family-friendly street party. Expect German beer, traditional food, live music, games, and a welcoming community vibe. It’s a perfect option if you prefer a more local celebration over the massive Denver crowds.
Colorado’s Oktoberfests may not rival Munich’s 16-day Wiesn’, but they bring plenty of Bavarian cheer to the Rockies. From alpine settings like Vail and Breckenridge to big-city vibes in Denver, there’s something for everyone—whether you’re after live music, German food, or simply an excuse to raise a stein.
And if you’re a fellow German speaker living in Denver, Boulder, or the mountain towns, know that with Appreciate Realty Co you have a local real estate broker who can help you auf Deutsch or in English. When you’re ready to find your place—whether it’s near the trails, in the mountains, or in the heart of a vibrant community—reach out.
Prost, and see you at the beer tent! 🍻