Oktoberfest is a long-awaited celebration for many. Since the 1800s, Oktoberfest has been an important part of German culture and is observed globally.
Nashville goes all out for Oktoberfest. German immigrants settled in the now-historic Germantown in the mid-19th century, and the beloved Oktoberfest there began in 1980. Since then, Oktoberfest has been celebrated every year in Nashville. In fact, Nashville holds the second-largest Oktoberfest celebration in the U.S. and prides itself on its action-packed festival and attractions.
Originating in Munich, Germany, Oktoberfest has become a worldwide phenomenon. It all began in 1810 when the royal wedding of King Ludwig I and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen turned into a city-wide party, featuring the now-classic smoked sausages, horse races, and a ton of beer. This celebration continued annually, and new attractions appeared each time, giving us the Oktoberfest we know and love today.
There is something at every corner during Nashville’s Oktoberfest. Expect plenty of delicious food, beer, activities, competitions, and more. You’ll see people dressed in German attire, such as dirndls and lederhosen. Oktoberfest in Nashville is also a family-friendly affair, with events for people of all ages to enjoy.
Places to Celebrate
Festival in Germantown
The festival is the main Oktoberfest destination in Nashville. Here, you’ll find an array of activities, food and beverage vendors, and live entertainment. These are just a few of the attractions you’ll find in Germantown during Oktoberfest:
- Artisan Alley: Vendors with all types of products, from cutlery to jewelry, can be found here.
- Pup Parade: The Pup Parade is an annual tradition where owners can dress up their dogs in fun costumes as they march down the street. After the parade, a panel of judges votes on their favorite pups.
- Food & Beverage: Oktoberfest never falls short of providing excellent food and drink. The festival offers whiskey tasting and an assortment of draft beers imported directly from Germany. Expect a wide range of German delicacies, such as brats, sausages, schnitzel, and sweet treats like funnel cakes and strudel.
- Live Music: What’s a Nashville celebration without live music? Oktoberfest has a full schedule of artists playing throughout the weekend.
- Brat-Eating Contest: If you’re feeling adventurous, consider entering the brat-eating contest for a chance to win a commemorative stein.
This year, the Oktoberfest festival, located at the Bicentennial Mall in Germantown, will take place from October 3rd through the 6th. General admission is only $10 and grants you access to food vendors, beer, live music, and activities.
The Pharmacy Burger
The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden highly anticipates Oktoberfest every year. This beloved local eatery, known for its craft burgers and old-fashioned sodas, transforms into a vibrant hub of Bavarian culture and cuisine during the festival, offering Nashvillians a taste of Germany right in the heart of Music City. Here’s what you can expect from The Pharmacy Burger this Oktoberfest:
- Authentic German Fare: From sizzling sausages to tangy German potato salad and the ever-popular currywurst, Pharmacy Burger’s Oktoberfest menu is brimming with traditional Bavarian dishes.
- Craft Beers Galore: The beer menu takes a distinctly German turn during Oktoberfest, featuring a wide selection of local and imported brews, including traditional lagers and pilsners.
- Live Music & Family Fun: The celebration wouldn’t be complete without live music and entertainment. Pharmacy Burger’s Oktoberfest is a family-friendly event where everyone can join in the fun, with a dedicated kids’ menu and outdoor seating for a relaxed, festive atmosphere.
- A Slice of History: Since opening in 2011, Pharmacy Burger has become a community staple. Founder Cees Brinkman’s vision of a European-style beer garden continues to thrive, making the restaurant a go-to destination for both locals and visitors.
Von Elrod’s
Von Elrod’s is an Oktoberfest staple in Nashville, known for its extensive beer list and German-inspired food. This year, join the Von Elrod’s block party with local and international beers, contests, and a DJ. Its new beer garden food truck will serve pretzels and bratwursts to fuel your festivities. Von Elrod’s Oktoberfest celebration spans from October 3rd through the 6th, with a big party on October 5th for people ages 21 and up.
Bavarian Bierhaus
At the Bavarian Bierhaus, it’s Oktoberfest every day. Inspired by the German town Bavaria, the Bavarian Bierhaus serves authentic German beer and cuisine fit for the ultimate Oktoberfest experience.
TailGate Brewery
This classic Nashville brewery goes all in for Oktoberfest. Visit TailGate Brewery for German-inspired craft beers and food pairings.
Nashville doesn’t fall short when it comes to lively places to participate in the Oktoberfest spirit. The over 40-year tradition of the Germantown Oktoberfest festival is just one way Nashville shows its appreciation for the annual tradition’s rich heritage and customary festivities. If the festival isn’t for you, enjoy some of Nashville’s popular restaurants and breweries honoring Oktoberfest with German-inspired cuisine and beverages. Nashville combines Southern hospitality with classic German festivities to create a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
