Major Oktoberfest Celebrations in Kansas
Kansas is home to several vibrant Oktoberfest celebrations, each offering a unique blend of German culture, food, and fun. Here’s a look at some of the major events:
KC Oktoberfest KC Oktoberfest is one of the largest celebrations in Kansas City, held over two days at Crown Center. This festival offers authentic Bavarian beer, food, and entertainment, including live polka music and traditional dance. Inspired by Munich’s Oktoberfest, KC Oktoberfest features stein-raising, dirndls, lederhosen, and a deep dive into Bavarian traditions.
Oktoberfest Hays Hosted by the Volga German Societies during Fort Hays State University’s homecoming weekend, Oktoberfest Hays is a three-day festival starting with a keg tapping. Established in 1974, it celebrates German culture with food, crafts, a community parade, a football game, and musical entertainment. The event is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and cultural heritage.
Oktoberfest Stafford Kansas Stafford Oktoberfest, held in downtown Main Street, offers a lively celebration of German culture with a parade, craft vendors, stage performances, and kids’ activities. The festival, which started in 1989, features the state’s largest Wiener Dog Races, a beer garden, and various entertainment options, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
St. John’s Oktoberfest Held at St. John’s Catholic Church in Hanover, St. John’s Oktoberfest is a late September event featuring live music by Festhaus Musikanten, international and local food, and a diverse selection of German and local beers. The festival includes a beer garden, food booths, and family-friendly activities such as face painting and pumpkin decorating.
Atchison Oktoberfest Atchison Oktoberfest is a three-day celebration in late September, held at Atchison Riverfront with scenic views of the Missouri River. The event features traditional German food, drinks, carnival games, and face painting, with free entry for everyone. It’s a festive gathering with activities for all ages.
Oktoberfest Wichita Oktoberfest Wichita, known as ICT Bloktoberfest, takes place annually at Naftzger Park. This event transforms the park into a vibrant Biergarten with local craft beers, traditional food, live music, and activities such as a costume contest, Wiener Dog Olympics, and carnival games. Food trucks and breweries offer a variety of local and regional flavors, making it a festive occasion for all ages.
