Fall is just around the corner, and that means the weather is cooler and it’s a great time to be outside. It also means that it’s time for fall festivals – and there’s no better place to spend the season than the Amana colonies. The Hawkeye State has a rich German-American tradition, meaning Oktoberfest in Iowa is truly epic every year. Head to Iowa’s always-charming Little Germany for three days of fun, food, beer, and music in the state’s largest Oktoberfest celebration. While it’s not the state’s only way to celebrate German pride, it is definitely the one you’ll be talking about until the next one rolls around!
Ah, Amana - such a quiet and sleepy town. Right? Not for three days every October! Strike up the Oompah band, because Oktoberfest is here!
Kepper66/Wikipedia
This year from September 30th to October 2nd, Amana is transformed into the town’s biggest German party - and you can have your ticket for only $10 a day or $15 for a two-day pass.
Oktoberfest in the Amana Colonies/Facebook
The Oktoberfest parade is one of the biggest events of the weekend, featuring countless floats full of traditional costumes.
Oktoberfest in the Amana Colonies/Facebook
You can expect music, comedy, beauty - and maybe even a stray farm animal or two joining in on the festivities!
Oktoberfest in the Amana Colonies/Facebook
If you like your Oktoberfest a little rowdier, head on down to the Eisenmann competition - a test of strongmen featuring over-the-top competitions and stunts.
Oktoberfest in the Amana Colonies/Facebook
The menu at Oktoberfest changes every year, but you can expect a meat-heavy menu featuring the best of Amana’s smoked meats and sausages.
Amana Meat Shop & Smokehouse/Facebook
The headliner at Amana Oktoberfest is definitely Festhalle, a massive biergarten that comes to life every festival.
Oktoberfest in the Amana Colonies/Facebook
You can sample German and local beers - and take home the ceremonial steins commemorating this year’s event.
Oktoberfest in the Amana Colonies/Facebook
There will be live music every night, and you’ll want to dance the night away to the stylings of the Polka-and-country-accented bands.
Oktoberfest in the Amana Colonies/Facebook
It’s a great event for the whole family filled with food, fun, music, and a celebration of German pride.
Oktoberfest in the Amana Colonies/Facebook
Have you been to the Amana Colonies for this epic fall festival? What’s your favorite place to celebrate Oktoberfest in Iowa? Let us know in the comments section. If you’re interested in attending this year’s Amana Oktoberfest, make sure to drop by their website to learn more. While you’re in Amana, why not go on the ultimate Iowa German food crawl?
Kepper66/Wikipedia
Oktoberfest in the Amana Colonies/Facebook
Amana Meat Shop & Smokehouse/Facebook
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Address: Amana Festhalle Barn, 4707 220th Trail, Amana, IA 52203, USA