Why is Oktoberfest called “Oktoberfest” when it actually begins in September?
The historical background: the first Oktoberfest was held in the year 1810 in honor of the Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig’s marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The festivities began on October 12, 1810 and ended on October 17th with a horse race. In the following years, the celebrations were repeated and, later, the festival was prolonged and moved forward into September.
By moving the festivities up, it allowed for better weather conditions. Because the September nights were warmer, the visitors were able to enjoy the gardens outside the tents and the stroll over “die Wiesen” or the fields much longer without feeling chilly. Historically, the last Oktoberfest weekend was in October and this tradition continues into present times.
When will the Peoria Oktoberfest 2021 take place?
The fun kicks off at 5 pm on Friday September 17st in the large tent for opening ceremonies. On Friday the event is open from 5:00 pm to 11:30pm. Saturday, September 18th, hours are from 11am-11:30pm. On Sunday, the hours are 10:00am to 5:00pm.
Can i get tickets onsite?
Yes! Come up to the front gate under the gateway building and we will be happy to sell you admission to the festival. You can pay with credit card or cash.
What do i do if tickets are sold out?
We don’t anticipate tickets selling out.
What do you get for admission?
The cost of admission includes entry and entertainment. The admission price is used to cover the cost of event production.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Dogs must be on a leash the entire time they are at the festival.
What forms of payment do you take?
We accept cash and credit/debit cards. Mastercard, Visa, Discover, American Express.
How do i purchase food and/or drinks?
In 2021, we are encouraging the credit/debit cards for purchases on the grounds. We will no longer be selling Deutsch dollars (beverage tickets) to be remitted at our bar stations. This will eliminate the line accustomed to purchasing Deutsch dollars at our peak times. We ask that credit/debit cards be used at our bar stations as cash transactions will be limited.
What do things cost inside?
Food and desserts varies from $3- $12 from pretzels to dinner plates.
Beer and wine starts at $6.
Can i purchase group tickets?
Absolutely! Email us at nconrad@peoriaparks.org and we can put something together for groups of 10 or more.
Are there in/out privileges?
You may leave and return via the main entrance under the gateway building only on the night your ticket is valid. Be sure to have your hand stamped for reentry.
Are backpacks allowed?
No, for security reasons backpacks are not allowed. You may bring in diaper bags even if they are backpacks.
Can i bring my kids?
Sure! We encourage bringing children during the day time hours. Children 12 and under are free.
Where should i park?
Free parking is available along Water St, in the lot on the corner of Hamilton/Water St./Washington St as well as in the Riverplex parking lot north of the festival grounds.
Can i bring in food and drinks?
no, we don’t allow outside food or drink into the festival.
i have other questions you have not answered. what should i do?
Feel free to contact us HERE