Frequently Asked Questions

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

What Are The Dates of This Year’s Oktoberfest?

The Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest celebrates its 53rd year of German fun and tradition.   We will be kick-off on Saturday, Sept. 9 and continue every weekend through Saturday, Nov. 4.  We will once again feature Friday nights in October!  

 

Are advanced reservations limited?

Yes!   The 2023 Oktoberfest will offer limited capacity.  We urge guests to pre purchase tickets.  We do anticipate that some event days will SELL OUT.  Please note that if we have capacity and that day’s tickets have not SOLD OUT, tickets will be available At The Door for a slightly higher admission fee.  

 

What do the “Arrival Times” on Saturday mean? 

Arrival times for entry are offered in time blocks so we can get everyone in without having to wait at the Gate.  Once you’ve arrived, you are welcome to stay the entire day/evening.

 

Will there be German bands this year?

Yes, we have two bands from Bavaria to perform the during the peak weekends September 30 to October 22. Bohemian Street Musicians will delight festival-goers September 30 & October 1, and then again, the following weekend October 7-8. Bohemian Street Musicians from Southern Germany embody the customary music of Germany and add their own unique twist to create a festive Oktoberfest atmosphere. The Aalbachtal Express, also from Southern Germany, returns to Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest for the first time since 2017. The Aalbachtal Express will rock the house October 14-15 and October 21-22. This 10-piece band has grown a solid reputation throughout Europe for its authenticity and upbeat live shows. Their music and energy sincerely reflect the spirit of the original Oktoberfest.

 

Can I enter Oktoberfest, leave and then re-enter at a later time?
There is NO RE-ENTRY.  Be sure to bring your whatever it is you need, i.e., camera, jacket, Photo I.D., etc. 

 

Can I bring my own stein?
Yes, you can bring your own stein to the Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest – as long as it comes in empty and leaves empty!   

 

What activities are their for Children?

Children activities include a Balloon Artist, Bounce Houses, and, on Sundays, special Kids Contests like the pretzel toss and kiddy mug holding matches.  Sundays are Family Fun Days with special Family Pricing.  The Family package includes two adults, and two children (12 years and under), as well as a FREE Kids’ Meal for each child all for $50. 

 

Do We Accept Credit Cards?

Yes, we accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover Card and American Express.  Credit Cards and/or cash are accepted at all locations!  Unlike, years past, there will be no beer/food tickets this year.  All transactions will be credit card or cash!

 

Are dogs allowed?

Service dogs are always welcome at Oktoberfest. However, while we do love dogs, no pets are allowed on the property.

 

What time are the contests?
Contests are scheduled regularly throughout the day.  This year’s contests include Log Sawing – Men, Women and Mixed Teams;  Steinholding – Men and Women; and the Safe Slam Beer Drinking contest. Children’s fun and games include kiddy mug holding matches and pretzel toss.

  

Is there a Taxi Service or Shuttle Service To and From Oktoberfest?

Getting home is super simple! The complimentary “Take Home” shuttle begins running at 7 p.m. on Saturday evenings and provides door-to-door service anywhere you are staying within the Big Bear Valley. The “Take Home” shuttle picks up at the main Oktoberfest entrance and runs each evening until 11:00 p.m.