Oktoberfest Events | Nisswa and Brainerd Lakes Area | 2025
- Camp Nisswa
- Sep 1
- 4 min read
Updated: Oct 6
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 2025
OCTOBERFEST Menu at Oak Lawn Tavern | Brainerd, MN
Dates: October 1 - 31, 2025
Details: Oak Lawn Tavern is offering a special Octoberfest Menu from October 1–31. Featured dishes include a Jumbo Soft Pretzel, a hearty Tavern Burger with brat and beef patties, a Sausage Sampler Platter, a traditional Schnitzel Dinner, and a sweet Apple Blossom dessert.
Oktoberfest at Nisswa American Legion | Nisswa, MN
Dates: October 6–11, 2025
Details: The Nisswa American Legion is hosting Oktoberfest from October 6–11. The celebration kicks off on the 6th with beer tasting and Polish sausage with sauerkraut. On October 11, enjoy live music by The Macko’s along with bratwurst, sauerkraut, and potato soup. Throughout the week, giant pretzels and Oktoberfest beer will be available.
14 Lakes Pub & Brewery’s First Annual Octoberfest Celebration | Crosslake, MN
Date: Â October 11, 2025: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Details: 14 Lakes Pub & Brewery in Crosslake, MN, is hosting its First Annual Octoberfest on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 11 AM to 10 PM. Guests can purchase a 20oz stein for $20 (includes first fill) and enjoy discounted refills through the end of October. The celebration features German food from a food truck, live German music, a costume contest, Oktoberfest and craft brews, plus fun competitions like a beanbag tournament and gunnysack races.
Oktoberfest at Ruttger's Bay Lake Resort | Deerwood, MN
Dates: October 17, 2025: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM and October 18, 2025: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Axetoberfest at Big Axe Brewing Company | Nisswa, MN
Date: October 18, 2025 11 AM – 8 PM
Details: Axetoberfest will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 11 AM to 8 PM at Big Axe Brewing Company in Downtown Nisswa. The event will feature special activities, a themed menu, and live music from The Elk River German Band between 2–6 PM.
14 Lakes Pub & Brewery’s First Annual Kids Octoberfest | Crosslake, MN
Date: October 18, 2025: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Details: 14 Lakes Pub & Brewery in Crosslake, MN is hosting its First Annual Kids Octoberfest on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 12 PM to 4 PM. The family-friendly event includes pumpkin painting, face painting, a Halloween costume contest, piñatas, gunnysack races, and a kids’ dance area. A variety of pizzas and appetizers will be available. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Pass Events for 2025
Roundhouse Brewery - Oktoberfest | Nisswa, MN
Dates:Â September 19-20, 2025
Details: Roundhouse Brewery’s Oktoberfest returns September 19–20. The fun kicks off Friday, Sept. 19 with live music by the Mellow Fellows from 6–9 PM, and continues Saturday, Sept. 20 with more music from 1–4 PM. Expect a full lineup of Oktoberfest festivities, including the Stein Holding Competition, Beer Wench Contest, and Hammernalgen. Throw on your lederhosen or dirndl and join the party—Prost to a great weekend of beer, games, and live tunes!
Dunmire's Bar & Grill - Oktoberfest | Brainerd, MN (210 Location)
Date: September 20, 2025, 11:00 AM
Details: Fun for all ages
Cuyuna Brewing Company - Oktoberfest | Crosby, MN
Date:Â September 20, 2025, 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Details: Cuyuna Brewing Company is throwing an epic Oktoberfest celebration on Saturday, September 20th from 12 PM to 10 PM. Get ready for a day packed with German beer, music, and all the festive fun you've been waiting for. Mark your calendars—this is shaping up to be one of the biggest parties of the year!
Snarky Loon Brewing Co. - Snarktoberfest | Jenkins, MN
Date:Â September 27, 2025 | 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Details:Â German beers, German food, games, and giveaways. Enjoy live music from Dos Guys from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM and 3rd Wheel from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
Jack Pine Brewery - Jacktoberfest | Baxter, MN
Date:Â September 27, 2025
Details:Â Live music featuring Jolly Ramblers Polka from 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM and Bombshell from 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM. Don't miss the pre-party on Friday, September 26th with music from Third Wheel 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM.
2025 Gull Lake Oktoberfest | Pub Crawl
Date:Â October 4, 2025, 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Details:Â Enjoy a shuttle tour around 9 Gull Lake locations, featuring the best German beer and food while supporting local charities. Tickets include shuttle access, a beer mug for sampling, and sponsor goodies.
A&Wtoberfest at A&W Nisswa | Kid & Family Friendly | Nisswa, MN
Date: October 4, 2025 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Details: This family-friendly Oktoberfest will feature brats, sauerkraut, pretzels with cheese and mustard, and more. Attendees are encouraged to join the fun in true Oktoberfest spirit with lederhosen and even their dachshunds.
Hacktoberfest 2025 Pub Crawl | Hackensack, MN
Date:Â October 4, 2025 12:00 PM
Details:Â Hacktoberfest 2025 is a pub crawl event in Hackensack, MN, on Saturday, October 4, featuring food and drink specials, wagon rides between venues, and a lineup of Oktoberfest-themed contests like Hammerschlagen, Stein Holding, Keg Rolling, Pretzel Eating, and a Costume Contest. Participants can enjoy photo ops, prizes, and discounted beer for those in traditional attire. The celebration takes place across American Legion, Birchwood Char House & Bar, and The Muni, with activities starting at 12:00 PM and running throughout the day.
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!