Oktoberfest events, time again to celebrate

Since the early 1800s, Oktoberfest has been an annual tradition that takes place in September. And now, it is time again to celebrate. Here are some Oktoberfest events to enjoy, not too far away.
Denver Oktoberfest
Denver’s two-weekend Oktoberfest celebration is September 18 – 20 and September 25 – 27, in the Ballpark District at Larimer and 21st Streets. The fun includes competitive stein hoisting, the long dog derby, keg bowling, live music and more. For more information, visit thedenveroktoberfest.com.
Castle Rock Oktoberfest
Castle Rock celebrates Oktoberfest in Wilcox Square, 301 Wilcox Street, September 19 from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., with music, food and beverages, unique vendors, fun for the kids and more. No ticket is needed for entry. To learn more, visit downtowncastlerock.com/oktoberfest.
Highlands Ranch Oktoberfest 5K and celebration
Highlands Ranch celebrates Oktoberfest September 26 in the Town Center, 9315 Dorchester Street, with its annual 5K starting at 9 a.m., followed by the Oktoberfest celebration beginning at 1 p.m. Enjoy lively music, delicious food, stein-hoisting competitions and more Bavarian-inspired fun. For more information, visit hrcaonline.org and search “Oktoberfest.”
Sterling Ranch Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest fun in Sterling Ranch is September 26 from 11 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Providence Park, Piney River Avenue and Eagle River Street, Littleton. The festivities include live music, Stein games, pretzels, Oktoberfest beer on tap, and more. To learn more, visit sterlingranchcab.com/Calendar and search “Oktoberfest.”
Douglas County Libraries (DCL) Brew Tour
The DCL 2026 Brew Tour runs through September 30. Log visits to some great Douglas County breweries, coffeehouses, and tea shops to earn points, unlock rewards, and be entered into the grand prize drawing. To learn more and to register, visit dcl.org/brew-tour.
Lone Tree Oktoberfest
The City of Lone Tree’s Oktoberfest celebration “Craftoberfest” is at Schweiger Ranch, 10822 South Havana Street, October 3 from 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. This event celebrates Coloradans’ love of craft beer with sampling from Colorado breweries, German cuisine and American favorites, music, a stein hoisting competition and more. To learn more, visit schweigerranch.org/event/city-of-lone-trees-craftoberfest-2026 and cityoflonetree.com/city-events/oktoberfest.
The Great American Beer Festival, Denver
While not officially an “Oktoberfest,” the Great American Beer Festival is considered the premier U.S. beer competition. This public tasting event and professional competition is October 10 – 11 at Denver’s Levitt Pavilion, 1380 West Florida Avenue, and includes live entertainment and more. For more information, visit greatamericanbeerfestival.com.
By Susan Helton; courtesy photo