Family Guide to the 15th Annual Milwaukee Oktoberfest 2025

Get ready for Milwaukee's biggest Oktoberfest celebration yet! This year marks a milestone as the festival moves to its new permanent home at Henry Maier Festival Park (Summerfest Grounds) on the lakefront, fulfilling former Mayor Henry Maier's 57-year-old vision of bringing authentic Oktoberfest festivities to Milwaukee's beautiful lakefront setting.

For more Oktoberfest options in the area, see our guide to Oktoberfest in the North Shore.

When & Where

Dates: October 3-5, 2025
Location: Henry Maier Festival Park (Summerfest Grounds)

Festival Hours:

• Friday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Ticket Information & Pricing

General Admission Tickets: $12 (valid all times)
Online Presale: $6 (available until October 1st)

Free Admission:

• Kids 10 & Under (must be accompanied by an adult)

• Seniors 65+ & Veterans (free before 2:00 PM)

FREE Community Hours:

• Friday: 4:00-5:00 PM

• Saturday & Sunday: 11:00 AM-1:00 PM

Pro Tip: Take advantage of those community hours for budget-friendly family fun, or snag the presale tickets for significant savings!

Family-Friendly Activities

The Wiener dog beauty pageant is a fan favorite

For the Kids

• Huge playground - Perfect for letting the little ones burn off energy while parents enjoy the festivities

• Wiener dog beauty pageant - Always a crowd favorite that gets the whole family laughing

• Strollers welcome - Easy navigation for families with younger children

• Kids eat free (10 & under) - More money in your pocket for family fun

Entertainment for Everyone

• Live German music all weekend long featuring authentic German bands

• Miss Oktoberfest competition - Traditional pageantry and entertainment

• Stein hoisting contests - Test your strength (adults only, but fun to watch!)

• Authentic German atmosphere with traditional decorations and festivities

Food & Drinks

Authentic German Cuisine

The finest German food will be provided by the renowned Kegels Inn, ensuring authentic flavors and quality. Expect traditional favorites like:

• Bratwurst and other German sausages

• Schnitzel and other hearty German entrees

• Fresh pretzels (perfect for sharing!)

• German desserts and treats

Beverage Selection

Imported German Beers:

• Hofbrau Oktoberfest, Original, Dunkel, and Helles

• Hacker Pshorr Hefeweizen and Oktoberfest

• Paulaner Radler

Plus local craft breweries offering German-style beers for those who want to support Milwaukee's brewing scene.

Bring Your Own Stein: You're welcome to bring your own traditional stein, or purchase authentic Oktoberfest steins at the festival bars.

Practical Information

Getting There & Parking

Public Parking: SP+ managed lots will be available near the grounds with the following hours:

• Friday: 3:30 PM – 10:00 PM

• Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM

• Sunday: 11:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Parking fees are collected by the lot operator.

Rideshare Pickup: For Uber, Lyft, or taxi service, enter "Mid-Gate Summerfest" as your destination. The streets around the grounds remain open for easy access.

What to Bring

• Your family's appetite for fun and authentic German culture

• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring the grounds

• Layers for October weather (it's outdoors, so dress accordingly)

• Your own stein if you have one

• Camera for capturing family memories

Bag Policy

The Henry Maier Festival Grounds bag policy applies. Check the official festival website for current guidelines before arriving.

Safety & Security

• Event is entirely outdoors for fresh air and safety

• Security guards and Milwaukee Police on-site 24/7

• Well-lit, family-friendly environment

Special Options

Table Reservations

For a more comfortable experience, consider reserving a table:

• Reserved seating for 5 hours

• Accommodates up to 6 adults

• Must pre-purchase specific time slots

• Perfect for families wanting guaranteed seating

VIP Tickets

Enhanced experience options are available for purchase online.

Why This Year is Special

This marks the first year at the festival's new lakefront location, making it a historic celebration you won't want to miss. The move to Henry Maier Festival Park allows for a bigger, better festival experience while honoring Milwaukee's German heritage and the lakefront vision that dates back nearly six decades.

Planning Your Visit

Best Times for Families:

• Take advantage of the FREE Community Hours for budget-friendly fun

• Saturday and Sunday mornings offer a more relaxed atmosphere

• Consider the weather—October can be crisp, so dress warmly

Budget-Friendly Tips:

• Buy presale tickets online for 50% savings

• Visit during free community hours

• Kids 10 & under are always free

• Bring your own stein to feel more authentic

This year's Milwaukee Oktoberfest promises to be the biggest and best yet, combining authentic German tradition with Milwaukee's signature hospitality in a beautiful lakefront setting. Whether you're introducing your children to German culture, enjoying craft beer, or simply celebrating with the community, this festival offers something special for every member of the family.

Prost! (Cheers!)

Looking for more Oktoberfest? See our comprehensive guide to Oktoberfest in the greater Milwaukee area.