Oktoberfest Events | Nisswa and Brainerd Lakes Area | 2026
Updated: 5 days ago
For beer lovers around the world, Oktoberfest is a bucket list item. But did you know that the Nisswa and Brainerd Lakes Area host some fantastic Oktoberfest celebrations? We've experienced multiple Oktoberfest events in the area, and they never disappoint. From delicious food and live entertainment to patrons dressed in traditional attire and, of course, exceptional beer, these celebrations capture the true spirit of Oktoberfest. The Nisswa and Brainerd Lakes Area are home to many incredible breweries, each offering a unique take on this beloved tradition. We’ve compiled a list of must-attend Oktoberfest events and celebrations in the area.
Current Events for 2026
Cuyuna Brewing Company - Oktoberfest | Crosby, MN
Date: September 19, 2026, 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Details: Cuyuna Brewing Company is bringing back its biggest party of the year with a full day of Oktoberfest fun in Crosby. Expect German-style beers, pretzels, brats, spaetzle, live German music, and a big outdoor parking lot celebration under the tent, weather permitting. This year also brings a new half-liter stein option, along with the returning one-liter steins, plus limited-edition Oktoberfest collector pins and hats. Live music runs from 12:30–3:30 PM with Jerry & Joyce Dance Band and 4:30–7:30 PM with Steve Solkela, the One-Man German Band.
Snarky Loon Brewing Co. - Snarktoberfest | Pequot Lakes, MN
Date: September 26, 2026
Details: Snarky Loon Brewing Co. is taking Snarktoberfest to the next level on September 26 after growing beyond the brewery’s current space. This year, they’re partnering with the City of Pequot Lakes to turn the celebration into a city-wide festival with more room, more activities, and more ways to support local businesses. The event will feature live music from Norman’s Bait & Tackle and Third Wheel, along with the games and traditions people already know and love. It’s shaping up to be the biggest Snarktoberfest yet, with the whole community invited to be part of the fun.
Jack Pine Brewery - Jacktoberfest | Baxter, MN
Date: September 26, 2026 | 12:00 PM
Details: Jack Pine Brewery’s Jacktoberfest brings a full weekend of specialty beers, steins, live music, and Oktoberfest fun to Baxter. Festivities build throughout the week, including Progressive Mug Day on Thursday, beer poking and live music from Scott Jasmin on Friday, plus special beer infusions. Saturday features The Jolly Ramblers from 1–4 PM, The Wintersloths from 6–9 PM, current-year mug fills, and hourly Das Boot drawings from 1–7 PM. Whether you’re coming for the beer, music, or just a fun weekend with friends, Jacktoberfest has plenty happening throughout the celebration.
Hacktoberfest Pub Crawl | Hackensack, MN
Date: October 3, 2026, 10:45 AM
Details: Hop on and off the wagons as they travel between the American Legion, Hack Muni, Birchwood Char House & Bar, and Barrel & Vine, starting at 10:45 AM. Expect German food, beer, games, contests, prizes, and plenty of laughs along the way. Lederhosen encouraged. Four stops, wagon rides, food, friends, and a full day of Hackensack-style fun.
2026 Gull Lake Oktoberfest | Pub Crawl
Date: October 3, 2026, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Details: The 15th Annual Gull Lake Oktoberfest returns Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 11 AM to 7 PM, bringing one of the Lakes Area’s favorite fall traditions back for another year. Guests can ride the Oktoberfest shuttle between seven Gull Lake destinations, with German beer, food, live music, and festivities waiting at each stop. Tickets include unlimited shuttle transportation, a commemorative Oktoberfest mug, German beer samples, and a Von Hanson’s sausage sample at every participating location. Proceeds help support local charities throughout the Gull Lake community, and participants must be 21 or older.
Lakestober Fest at Lakes Tavern | Pequot Lakes, MN
Date: October 3, 2026
Details: Lakes Tavern is bringing back Lakestober Fest on Saturday, October 3, 2026, for a full day of fall fun in Pequot Lakes. The celebration will feature live music, food specials, and drink specials throughout the day.
Oktoberfest at Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort | Deerwood, MN
Dates: October 16, 2026: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM and October 17, 2026: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Crosslake First Annual Oktoberfest | Crosslake, MN
Dates: October 16-17, 2026
Details: Crosslake is launching its First Annual Oktoberfest on October 16–17, 2026, with two days of activities happening throughout the community. The celebration will feature German beer, food, live music, dancing, games, and family entertainment, with shuttles running between participating restaurants. Highlights include live music from The Dweebs, a best-dressed contest for kids and adults, Hammerschlagen, and activities for all ages. A large 80-by-40-foot event tent will serve as a centerpiece for the weekend, making this a brand-new fall festival to watch in Crosslake.
Whether you're a local resident or visiting the Nisswa and Brainerd Lakes Area, these Oktoberfest events offer a perfect blend of tradition and community spirit. From authentic German beer and food to lively music and festive games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Mark your calendars and get ready to raise a stein to the season! Prost!
