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Oktoberfests in Illinois

in Arts & Culture, Activities
August 14, 2018

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Home You are in… Get Inspired » Oktoberfests in Illinois

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Beer? Check. Brats? Yep. Games and other antics? Well, of course. Find these and more at Oktoberfest celebrations around Illinois.  

Peoria Oktoberfest

German lessons, genealogy searches and Bavarian apparel for sale put serious cultural spin on this party hosted by the German American Central Society. But it’s fun, too: Watch arm-strength contestants try to hold their beer (steins), and enjoy the hearty food and drink. 

Rotary Club of Quincy Oktoberfest

No need to train for the 0.2K Beer and Brat Dash (it’s about two city blocks). Sample craft beers and tour tunnels and caverns at Dick Brothers Brewery. Take part in an Abendbrot, a traditional German communal dinner.

Galena Oktoberfest

Dogs have their day at this annual event, with three wiener-dog races on tap. Learn how to dance the polka and balance a beer stein. Kids get in on the fun, too, with a bounce house and pumpkin decorating.

St. Alphonsus Oktoberfest

West Lakeview’s iconic church hosts a bash with brats and bands on two stages. Adults can sample 20 craft beers; admission includes a souvenir glass and pretzel necklace.

St. Mary’s Oktoberfest

A sweet sweepstakes is the big draw, typically with a $10,000 grand prize and several four-figure awards. And if the live music, brews and brats don’t win you over, indulge in German cookies, Bavarian cream puffs and Apfelkuchen (apple cake).

Plano Oktoberfest

Feast on schnitzel and spaetzle, drink Hacker-Pschorr (a traditional Oktoberfest beer), and dance to live music under a circus tent on Main Street. Flap your wings in the “Chicken Dance” contest both weekend nights. 

Hoffman Estates Platzkonzert

A wiener-eating contest, live tunes and a Munich-style beer garden highlight this suburban Chicago celebration. Pair Bavarian brews with giant pretzels slathered in mustard or cheese.

Jacksonville Oktoberfest

Besides brews, wiener- dog races, food and tunes, compete in the washers and bags tournament. It all happens at the Morgan County Fairgrounds west of Springfield.
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