When someone utters the word “Fall”, a lot of things come to mind. Maybe it’s the High Sierra’s autumn foliage of carrot oranges, crimson reds, and amber yellows. Or possibly it’s the last chance to catch the “big one.” For those that don’t just like but rather LOVE beer, it’s also time for Oktoberfest in the High Sierra. Here’s a “flight” of Oktoberfest’s to enjoy this year.

Tahoe City

September 23rd

For more information about this event

Tahoe City Oktoberfest in the high sierra
Image appears courtesy: Tahoe City Downtown Association

For those focused on craft brews, head to Lake Tahoe’s west shore. Tahoe City hosts an Oktoberfest featuring barley pops from Alibi Ale Works and Auburn Alehouse, along with the ever-popular flavors from Lagunitas Brewing Company.

Palisades Tahoe

September 30th

For more information about this event

Squaw Valley Oktoberfest in the high sierra bavarian music
Image appears courtesy: Palisades Tahoe

There must be something special in the water because the shores of Lake Tahoe are home to a bevy of amazing Oktoberfests. Second up is Palisades Tahoe. Each year they convert their cozy village into a Bavarian playground filled with live German music, cold beers, and fresh pretzels made by a local favorite: Truckee Sourdough Company. Once your done enjoying a frosty pint take in the fall colors on a hike surrounding Truckee.

Friends of the Fair Sausage & Suds Event

October 28th

For more information about this event

mariposa yosemite friends of the fair sausage and suds event
german bratwursts and sauerkraut with beer

It may not have the name “Oktoberfest, but when its name includes beer, sausage, AND it’s in the month of October, that’s an Oktoberfest in our heart. The annual shindig at the Mariposa County fairgrounds serves up twenty different varieties of the best of the “wurst.” This is then paired up with not just one or two barley pops but over ONE HUNDRED varieties of ales, lagers, and other beers including Mariposa’s own 1850. Make sure to bring your largest lederhosen because you’ll need the space. Just one of the many fun events happening in Mariposa county throughout the year.

South Lake Tahoe – Camp Richardson

Cancelled for 2023

For more information about this event

Camp Richardson Oktoberfest in the High Sierra Tahoe South
Image appears courtesy: Tahoe South

The south shore is home to the oldest Oktoberfest in the region. In its 26th year, this celebration is held in the secluded old growth forests within the historic Camp Richardson property. In addition to frosty beer, expect to take in contests like beer stein holding and yodeling.

So, grab your lederhosen or dirndl and get ready to celebrate Oktoberfest the right way… in the High Sierra!

Author: Alex Silgalis

Alex founded Local Freshies® in 2014 to be the #1 website providing the “local scoop” on where to eat, drink & play in mountain towns throughout North America. When he’s not writing and executing marketing strategies for small businesses & agencies, he’s in search of the deepest snow in the winter and tackiest dirt in the summer.





Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

Stay Up to Date

for updates on hidden gems, events, and more from California's High Sierra.

More Trip Ideas

More Trip Ideas

Keep Discovering

Need more reasons to visit the Sierra Nevada High Country?

Get a glimpse of the stunning scenery to see and activities to do in the Sierra Nevada.

View Gallery Brochure

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors