Residents of Southeast Minnesota have plenty of Oktoberfest festivities to enjoy this fall. While the historic German celebration traditionally falls in October, the original dates were moved to September for better weather, a fact many locals find curious but welcome.
Upcoming Oktoberfest Events
Mineral Springs Brewery – Owatonna
Thursday, Sept. 17 – Sunday, Sept. 20
Live music, classic pretzels, food trucks, ample beer and a stein‑holding contest. Mineral Springs is an official US Steinholding Association qualifying venue.
The Last Punktoberfest – Thesis Beer Project – Rochester
Friday, Sept. 25 – Saturday, Sept. 26
Seventeen punk bands perform over two nights. Tickets are $40 for a two‑day pass or $20 at the door for single‑day entry. Doors open at 5 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. Saturday.
Little Thistle’s Oktoberfest – Rochester
Saturday, Sept. 26, noon – 7 p.m.
Live music, games, food from the Pre‑Gamers BBQ food truck, and plenty of “prost” to go around.
Tilion Brewing – Cannon Falls
Saturday, Sept. 26, noon – 9 p.m.
Live music, food, and games including the popular “Drunken German” spelling bee.
Oktoberfest for Suicide Prevention – Rochester
Saturday, Oct. 3, noon – 8 p.m.
Hosted at Haley Comfort Systems, Active PT, Purple Goat, and Chip Shots, this event features live music, games, food and beer while raising funds for suicide‑prevention organizations.
Why Oktoberfest Happens in September
The tradition dates back to 1810 when Prince Ludwig of Bavaria married Princess Therese in Munich. The original celebration ran from October 12‑17, but organizers soon realized October’s chill was too harsh, so they shifted the festivities to September while keeping the name Oktoberfest.
Whether you prefer classic Bavarian fare or a punk‑rock twist, Southeast Minnesota’s Oktoberfest lineup offers something for every family and community member. Grab your lederhosen, support local breweries, and enjoy a season of fellowship and fun.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
