“Ultimate Guide to Oktoberfest: Beers, Brats, and Bavarian Traditions”

Eat, drink and be merry. Yes, it’s Oktoberfest in downtown Coeur d’Alene, from 4 to 8 p.m. Friday and noon to 8 p.m. Saturday.

The two-day celebration will feature more than 30 craft beer, cider and seltzer taps throughout businesses, joined by two biergartens, live music, games, contests and German menus as downtown Coeur d’Alene is transformed into a Bavarian village.

Here’s a look at what awaits:

• No-Li Biergarten at Rotary Centennial Park, 316 Sherman Ave., will be in full swing featuring a ceremonial keg tapping Friday, stein-holding contests, a live DJ and German food from Rustic and Crown and Thistle.

• In partnership with Downtown’s German-inspired watering hole, the Bier Haus Prostgarten (located on Lakeside Avenue behind Bier Haus) is home to the STCU Stage, featuring headliners including the Heather King Band and the Rhythm Dogs. This lively spot kicks off the festival’s second day with a keg tapping by Bayern Brewing, games, contests, with bites from Bier Haus.

• Pop-Up Pubs: Stroll through more than 20 local businesses as they turn into pop-up pubs offering beers, ciders, tasty snacks and entertainment.

Every autumn, millions of people from around the globe flock to Munich, Germany, to take part in the world’s largest folk festival—Oktoberfest. What began in 1810 as a royal wedding celebration has grown into a cultural extravaganza known for its overflowing steins of beer, sizzling sausages, traditional Bavarian attire, and a spirit of community that bridges cultures and generations.

A Festival with Deep Roots

Oktoberfest dates back to the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. Locals celebrated with horse races, food, and drink on the fields that were later named Theresienwiese (Theresa’s meadow). Today, that same site hosts over two weeks of festivities every late September into early October.

The Beer Culture

At the heart of Oktoberfest is the beer. Only six Munich breweries—such as Paulaner, Hofbräu, and Augustiner—are allowed to serve at the festival, each producing special Märzen-style beers brewed just for the occasion. Served in one-liter mugs called Maßkrugs, the beer is strong, smooth, and designed for hearty celebration.

Brats, Pretzels and More

No Oktoberfest experience is complete without the food. Stalls and beer tents serve up Bavarian delicacies including:

• Bratwurst and Weisswurst – sausages grilled or boiled to perfection

• Brezen (Pretzels) – giant, soft pretzels sprinkled with salt

• Roast Chicken and Pork Knuckles – festival favorites for sharing

• Apple Strudel – sweet endings to balance the savory feast

Traditional Attire and Music

Visitors often dress in lederhosen (for men) and dirndls (for women), proudly showcasing Bavarian tradition. Inside the beer tents, brass bands play folk music, and crowds join in lively singing, dancing, and clinking of steins.

Beyond the Beer Tents

Oktoberfest isn’t just about drinking. Families enjoy carnival rides, parades, and cultural showcases. The opening parade of festival hosts and brewers, along with the traditional tapping of the first keg by Munich’s mayor, marks the start of the event with spectacular flair.

A Global Celebration

While Munich’s Oktoberfest is the original, cities worldwide—from Cincinnati to Sydney—host their own versions, bringing Bavarian spirit to international audiences.

Final Cheers

Oktoberfest is more than just a beer festival—it’s a celebration of Bavarian heritage, culinary delights, and shared joy. Whether you’re raising a stein in Munich or at a local Oktoberfest event, it’s a chance to savor tradition, food, and fun with friends old and new.

Tickets start at $25 and include commemorative glassware, beer tasting tickets and full entertainment access. Door sales are available while supplies last in The Coeur d’Alene Resort Plaza Shops from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Friday and 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday.

Tickets: cdadowntown.com/cda-events/oktoberfest