Big Bear Oktoberfest 2026: Dates, Things to Do & Where to Stay

Fall is almost here, and that means one of Big Bear's most beloved traditions is returning to the mountains. Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest 2026 brings German food, live music, traditional competitions, and plenty of festive fun to Big Bear throughout September, October, and November.

Whether Oktoberfest is the main reason for your trip or you're simply looking for things to do in Big Bear this fall, it's the perfect opportunity to plan a weekend in the mountains.

Here's everything you need to know about Big Bear Oktoberfest 2026.

When Is Big Bear Oktoberfest 2026?

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest begins September 12, 2026 and continues on select dates through November 8, 2026.

The currently announced 2026 dates include:

September: 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 and 27

October: 2–4, 9–11, 16–18, 23–25 and 30

November: 1, 7 and 8

With celebrations stretching across nearly two months, there are plenty of opportunities to plan an Oktoberfest getaway.

Experience a Big Bear Tradition

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest has become a Southern California fall tradition centered around German culture, food, music, family, friendship, and community.

The mountain setting makes the celebration even more memorable.

Spend your afternoon experiencing Oktoberfest before heading out to explore Big Bear or returning to your cabin for a cozy fall evening.

Try Traditional German Food

Come hungry because food is a major part of the Oktoberfest experience.

Visitors can expect German favorites such as:

• Bratwurst

• Knockwurst

• Kielbasa

• Sauerkraut

• Bavarian dumplings

• Giant pretzels

• Beer cheese soup

• German apple strudel

Pair your meal with the festive atmosphere and you've got the perfect fall afternoon in Big Bear.

Listen to Traditional German Music

Music is another major part of the celebration.

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest traditionally features German music and live entertainment that brings the festival atmosphere to life.

Grab some food, find a place to sit, and enjoy the performances while celebrating with friends and family.

Join the Oktoberfest Competitions

Feeling competitive?

Traditional Oktoberfest contests give visitors an opportunity to join in the festivities instead of simply watching from the sidelines.

Competitions and entertainment vary throughout the festival, so check the current schedule before your visit to see what's happening during your weekend.

Make Oktoberfest Part of a Fall Weekend

One of the best ways to experience Oktoberfest is to turn it into an entire Big Bear getaway.

There's plenty to explore before and after the festivities.

Explore The Village

Spend part of your weekend strolling through The Village.

Browse local boutiques, grab coffee, find a souvenir, enjoy dessert, or make reservations for dinner.

The cooler mountain weather makes fall an especially enjoyable time to slow down and explore downtown Big Bear.

Take a Scenic Drive

You don't need an itinerary for every hour of your vacation.

Grab your favorite coffee, turn on some music, and spend part of the afternoon driving around Big Bear Lake and through the surrounding mountain scenery.

Fall is the perfect season to slow down and enjoy the views.

Enjoy a Cozy Cabin Evening

After the energy of Oktoberfest, return to your cabin for a relaxing night.

Cook dinner together, watch a movie, play board games, enjoy a warm drink, or simply sit outside and take in the cool mountain air.

Your cabin can become just as memorable a part of the getaway as the activities themselves.

What Should You Pack for Oktoberfest Weekend?

Fall temperatures in Big Bear can vary considerably throughout the day, so layers are important.

Consider packing:

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Jeans

• Sweaters

• Light and medium-weight jackets

• Warm socks

• Sunglasses

• Sunscreen

• Reusable water bottle

Check the weather forecast before your trip so you can adjust your packing list accordingly.

Where to Stay for Big Bear Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest weekends can make the perfect excuse for a two or three-night mountain escape.

Instead of driving home after the festivities, stay nearby and give yourself time to experience everything Big Bear has to offer.

At Big Bear Experiences, our luxury cabin rentals give you a comfortable home base for your fall getaway. Spend your day celebrating Oktoberfest, exploring The Village, hiking, and discovering Big Bear before returning to your cabin for a relaxing evening.

Plan Your Big Bear Oktoberfest 2026 Getaway

Big Bear Oktoberfest combines everything we love about fall in the mountains: cooler weather, great food, live entertainment, tradition, and time spent with friends and family.

Whether you're visiting specifically for Oktoberfest or adding it to a longer fall vacation, it's an experience worth putting on your Big Bear itinerary.

Book your stay with Big Bear Experiences and turn your Oktoberfest visit into a complete fall mountain getaway.