Every year Germany comes to
Stowe, Vermont in the form of an Oktoberfest celebration. Taking their cue from the Germans, Stowe Oktoberfest takes place in the end of September (not in October, as is commonly celebrated in the States). This weekend-long festival includes a range of entertainment such as live music, a parade, the local arena transformed into a Bavarian village, and plenty of beer and bratwursts. Come to Stowe to celebrate the harvest and the changing of the seasons in a festive German style.
The 2012 Festival
In 2012, the Stowe Oktoberfest is scheduled for
September 28 through September 30 . The weekend begins with a kick-off event at the
Jackson Arena for a rock concert. This evening of live music and dancing is scheduled for 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday night. German-themed concessions, including beer and bratwurst, will of course be on sale. Other highlights of the 2012 Oktoberfest include
the Grand Parade on Saturday morning and
the Bavarian Village in the Jackson Arena that takes place all day Saturday and Sunday.
The Fine Print
Oktoberfest is a fantastic excuse to plan a trip to scenic Stowe, Vermont. If you're planning on attending the festival, there are a few things to know. Tickets cost $7 for adults and seniors, $5 for kids, and are free for kids under the age of 9. There is a $1 off coupon available on the Oktoberfest website that you can print and bring with you to the Jackson Arena. Opening hours are different each day. The Friday night kick-off party is scheduled for 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. The Bavarian village will be open on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Grand Parade
One highlight of the Stowe Oktoberfest is the annual Grand Parade. This event is scheduled for Saturday September 29 at 10 a.m. If you want to get a good seat for viewing the party, you're going to want to arrive early. The parade includes marching bands, classic cars, and floats representing local clubs. The festival organizers also hint that each year's parade includes a few unexpected surprises too. This parade officially kicks off the festival with the help of celebrity grand marshals and other guests. The entire festival is family friendly, but this is one event that kids really love.
The Bavarian Village
For many visitors, the best part of the festival is the Bavarian village. Located inside Stowe's Jackson Arena, this attraction is built to look just like a village in Bavaria, the section of Germany where Oktoberfest originates from. Visitors can expect bands, sing-alongs, dancing, Bavarian food, and locally-brewed Vermont beers. This family-friendly festival also includes a silent auction. There are large tables set up inside the arena where festival guests can dig into bratwurst and big steins of beer. There's also an area just for kids, called
Kinderplatz , that includes a jumping fun house and face painting.
Vacation Rentals
Stowe Oktoberfest is a popular annual event, so savvy travelers will
book their vacation rentals early. A trip to Stowe in October isn't only about German food and beer but also about witnessing the beauty of the vibrant autumn season in Vermont. The best way to soak up this atmosphere is with a vacation rental. Whether you're traveling with friends, family, or as a couple, you will appreciate the extra space and privacy that a vacation rental provides. After a day at the festival, keep the fun going with a German-themed shindig at your vacation rental.
Vacation Rentals for the 2012 Stowe Oktoberfest
This lovely contemporary style home enjoys a private lot with a large front yard and views of the Lamoille River from the back. This multi-level home offers a nice mudroom entry, laundry room and a large master suite on the ground level. The mas...
If you're looking for a true country experience, come stay at this authentic Vermont home, ideal for the large family or small group vacation. This home is over 200 years old and was built by one of the first settlers in Stowe. Once the site of a...
This spacious home provides guests with a beautiful and open layout that's designed to accommodate large groups. The great room boasts cathedral ceilings, large picture windows with forest views, a gas fireplace, and a flat-screen TV. The kitchen ...
There is something to please every member of your party in this beautiful new property. The main level of the home features the great room with a gas fireplace, spacious dining area, and fully equipped kitchen. The dining area opens to a large dec...
This Stonybrook condo will become your home away from home on your Stowe vacation. Featuring beautiful finishes throughout, every room is as welcoming as it is comfortable. There's a dual-sided wood-burning fireplace between the living room and de...
