The traditions of Germany's Oktoberfest festival have been a source of celebration and fun for many across the globe. Columbia is no different, with many upcoming events planned to celebrate the "die Feier."
Columbia residents can fully immerse themselves in the culture by participating in events hosted by local businesses and organizations throughout September and October featuring German food, drinks and entertainment.
Here's where Midlands residents can plan to join in on the fun:
What: Bierkeller's annual Oktoberfest celebrations are back, commemorating the holiday over two consecutive weekends. The German brewing company opened back in 2023 and has become a leader in celebrating all things Deutsch with a wide selection of German-style beers and food that will make you think you stepped into a Munich tavern. During the event's two weekends, locals can enjoy the outdoor biergarten and the vendor-filled space while snacking on German cuisine and drinking authentic German beer.
When: Sept. 19-20 and 26-27, noon to 7 p.m.
Where: Bierkeller Brewing Company, 600 Canalside St., Suite 1009, Columbia
More Information: https://tinyurl.com/5fctb8s8
What: Steel Hands Brewing is joining the festivities with an all-day, free event. Throughout the evening, dance to polka music courtesy of the Appalachian Freunde Polka Band and participate in a plethora of games, like a grain toss and stein hoisting contest. The Cayce brewery is also hosting a costume contest with prizes for the top three contestants. Attendees can enjoy Festbier — a Märzen-style German lager on tap — throughout the day and see the official cask opening at 6:30 p.m.
When: Sept. 25, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Steel Hands Brewing, 2350 Foreman St., Cayce
More Information: https://tinyurl.com/4vwzc6nn
What: Savage Craft is having an all-day carnival with German garb and festivities galore. The brewery will be closing down Center Street and having its very own street-wide spread of games, rides and performances. Even when the street opens back up, there will be nonstop activities at Savage Craft until 11 p.m., including stilt walkers, fire performers and bands.
When: Sept. 26, 11 am to 11 pm
Where: Savage Craft Ale Works, 430 Center Street West Columbia, SC, 29169
More Information: https://tinyurl.com/42hwfndw
What: Columbia's original Oktoberfest celebration is back again, celebrating its 16th year this October. The festival is a three-day gathering of dancing, food, games, vendors and more. The mission of the event is to "show God's love for all through hospitality, and to promote the well-being of Incarnation Lutheran Church and the larger community through responsible leadership and fun, hard work," according to the festival's website.
When: Oct. 9-11, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.
Where: Incarnation Lutheran Church, 3005 Devine St., Columbia, SC 29205
More Information: https://www.oktoberfestcolumbia.com/