Big Bear Oktoberfest 2024: Everything You Need to Know

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Big Bear Oktoberfest 2024: Everything You Need to Know

Big Bear Oktoberfest is one of the most anticipated annual events in Southern California, blending rich Bavarian traditions with a lively mountain atmosphere. Whether you're a local, a regular attendee, or a first-time visitor, Big Bear Oktoberfest 2024 promises an unforgettable experience filled with traditional German food, live music, dancing, and, of course, plenty of beer. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your visit.

Event Dates and Location

Big Bear Oktoberfest 2024 will run over multiple weekends, starting from September 7th and ending on November 9th, 2024. The event takes place at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center, which has been hosting the festival for over 50 years, making it a cherished local tradition.

  • Address: 42900 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, NW Corner of Big Bear Blvd. & Division, CA 92315

Most weekends sell out in advance, so it’s highly recommended to buy your tickets early, especially if you're planning to attend during peak weekends in October.

Tickets and Admission

Big Bear Oktoberfest offers various ticket options, including general admission, VIP seating, and packages for groups. Here's a breakdown of what to expect:

  • General Admission: Prices typically range from $20 to $40, depending on the weekend. Tickets include access to all entertainment, contests, and general seating areas.

  • VIP Tickets: For those looking to enjoy the festival in style, VIP packages start at $100 and offer reserved seating, express entry, and table service, along with a limited-edition stein.

  • Group Packages: If you're attending with a large group, Oktoberfest offers group packages that provide reserved seating and discounts for parties of 10 or more.

Tickets are available online through the official Big Bear Oktoberfest website or can be purchased at the gate (subject to availability).

What to Expect: Food, Drinks, and Entertainment

Big Bear Oktoberfest is all about celebrating Bavarian culture, so expect plenty of traditional German food, music, and, of course, beer. Here’s what you can look forward to:

Food and Drink

  • German Beer: The event features an impressive selection of authentic German beers, including options from breweries like Spaten, Warsteiner, and Hofbräu. Guests can choose between lager, dunkel, weissbier, and more. Non-alcoholic beer options are also available.

  • Traditional Food: No Oktoberfest is complete without hearty Bavarian cuisine. You can enjoy bratwurst, pretzels, schnitzels, sauerkraut, and potato pancakes. There’s also a special German chocolate cake and apple strudel for dessert.

  • Craft Beer: In addition to German beer, the event offers a selection of local craft brews from Big Bear and surrounding areas for those who want to sample something closer to home.

Entertainment

  • Live Music: Oktoberfest is famous for its high-energy, authentic Bavarian bands. Expect a mix of traditional German music (think oompah bands and polka) and lively modern tunes to keep the party going.

  • Dancing: The dance floor is always packed, with visitors dancing to polka, line dancing, and even the famous chicken dance. Don’t be afraid to join in the fun—no experience required!

  • Contests: Each day, festival-goers can participate in a variety of contests, including stein-holding competitions, log sawing, and beer chugging. Winners often receive prizes like steins, t-shirts, and even event tickets for the following year.

Family-Friendly Fun

Big Bear Oktoberfest is an event for all ages, and while the focus is often on beer and revelry, there are plenty of activities for families and children, particularly on Sundays. The festival offers:

  • Kinder Garten: A special section just for kids, featuring carnival games, bounce houses, and face painting.
  • Pumpkin Patch: Families can pick out pumpkins, perfect for decorating or carving.
  • Kid-Friendly Food: Don’t worry if your little ones aren’t ready for bratwurst—there are kid-friendly menu options like pretzels, pizza, and hot dogs.

Dress Code: Traditional Bavarian Attire

One of the most fun aspects of Big Bear Oktoberfest is dressing up in traditional Bavarian attire. Many attendees wear lederhosen (for men) or dirndls (for women), adding to the authenticity and festive spirit of the event. While dressing up isn’t mandatory, it’s highly encouraged and makes for great photo opportunities!

If you don’t own Bavarian clothing, don’t worry. There are vendors at the event where you can purchase or rent traditional outfits, or you can find costumes online.

Parking and Transportation

There’s plenty of on-site parking at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center, but it can fill up quickly, especially on busy weekends. Parking typically costs around $10 to $20.

For a hassle-free experience, you can take advantage of the Oktoberfest shuttle service, which runs between key locations around Big Bear Lake and the Convention Center. Shuttle services are usually free or available for a small fee, and they offer a safe way to enjoy the event without worrying about driving after indulging in a few steins of beer.

Accommodations: Where to Stay in Big Bear

Big Bear Oktoberfest attracts thousands of visitors each year, so booking accommodations early is essential. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin, a lakefront lodge, or a luxury home, Big Bear offers a wide variety of lodging options. Here are a few popular options:

  • Vacation Rentals: Consider booking a cabin or home through Reserve Big Bear, offering a range of properties perfect for groups, families, or couples. Many rentals are pet-friendly and provide full amenities.

  • Hotels and Lodges: Big Bear Lake has several well-known hotels and lodges within a short drive from the event, including Marina Resort and Holiday Inn Resort Big Bear.

  • Camping: If you prefer the outdoors, several nearby campsites offer RV and tent camping options, including Holloway’s Marina & RV Park and Pine Knot Campground.

Tips for Attending Big Bear Oktoberfest 2024

  • Arrive Early: Weekends are busy, so plan to arrive early to secure parking, get a good seat, and avoid long lines at the beer hall.

  • Hydrate and Eat: With all the beer flowing, it’s important to stay hydrated. Make sure to eat plenty of food (the bratwurst is highly recommended) to soak up all those steins!

  • Cash and Cards: While most vendors accept credit cards, having cash on hand can make things quicker, especially for smaller purchases like snacks or games.

  • Dress Warm: While the daytime temperatures in Big Bear can be mild, it can get chilly in the evenings, especially in the fall. Make sure to bring a jacket or sweater to stay comfortable.

Final Thoughts

Big Bear Oktoberfest 2024 is shaping up to be another amazing event that brings Bavarian traditions to the heart of Southern California. Whether you're attending for the beer, food, music, or the family-friendly atmosphere, you're sure to have an unforgettable time.

Ready to book your stay? Reserve your accommodation with Reserve Big Bear today and make the most of your Oktoberfest experience!

For more details on the event, visit the official Big Bear Oktoberfest website or reach out:

Phone
(909) 585-3000

Fax
(909) 584-2886

E-Mail
info@bigbearevents.com

Contact Information

Reserve Big Bear
Address: 42670 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA, United States, 92315
Phone: (909) 500-3252
Email: info@reservebigbear.com
Website: www.reservebigbear.com

Book your stay and get ready for a weekend filled with fun, food, and festivities at Big Bear Oktoberfest 2024! Prost! 🍻