Chicago German-American Oktoberfest comes to Lincoln Square this weekend

Chicago residents can celebrate the start of fall with this weekend’s German-American Oktoberfest in Lincoln Square. This tradition will mark the 104th anniversary of the first German-American day in 1920. 

The celebrations will kick off on Friday, September 6 in the parking lot at 4521 Lincoln Avenue. Guests can try authentic German food and drinks, partake in carnival games, and enjoy traditional German music from live bands and local dancing groups. 

Festival Times:

• Fri., Sept. 6 from 5-10 p.m. — special opening ceremony at 8 p.m.

• Sat., Sept. 7 from 12-10 p.m. — parade starts at 2 p.m.

• Sun., Sept. 8 from 12-10 p.m. — German mass service starts at 11 a.m.

Saturday’s parade will be held along Lincoln Avenue, from Irving Park Road north to Sunnyside Avenue. Sponsored by the United German-American Societies of Greater Chicago, the parade will include decorative floats, costumes, and members from several local German-American organizations.

While the event may seem a bit early with the month of September just starting, the German-American Oktoberfest happens each year on the first weekend after Labor Day when the weather is still mild.

According to German Day Secretary Elfriede Peters, "Even in Germany, where the real Oktoberfest is held, the event starts in September. Since 1872, Germany has hosted their Oktoberfest starting on the first Saturday after September 15 and it runs until the first Sunday in October."

Admission to Oktoberfest is free to the public. Learn more on their website.