Event Details
Prost to a new tradition! This Fall, history and celebration come together as Old Town, Chicago’s first German neighborhood, hosts its inaugural Old Town Oktoberfest on Wells Street from Friday to Sunday, September 19–21, 2025. Set to become the city’s newest Fall tradition, the festival promises a vibrant fusion of Bavarian culture, local flavor, and community spirit.
Located at 1360 N Wells St., the fest will be held from Fri 5-10 p.m.; Sat. 11:30 - 10 p.m. and Sun. 11:30 am – 8 pm from Sept. 19-21: Old Town Oktoberfest is located on the 1300 Block of North Wells, between Schiller and Evergreen across from Cobbler Square Lofts, the former Dr Scholl factory.
Enjoy bratwurst with sauerkraut, pretzels, potato pancakes and fried cheese from a special Old Town Oktoberfest menu. Treat yourself to a taffy apple with pretzel, fudge, and a funnel cake. Wash it all down with Paulaner Munchen German Beer or hot spiced wine. This is more than just a party; it's a chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant community spirit of Old Town.
Fest attendees will enjoy lively entertainment including German inspired music, a brass band, polka, and Chicago’s top festival bands across all genres - inviting dancing and singing all weekend long. Plus, catch the football action on a giant outdoor screen and test your strength in Masskrugstemmen (stein-holding contests) for a chance to win prizes and bragging rights! Families will enjoy games.
For those seeking something extra, the VIP experience includes a festival stein, beer, and bratwurst, and offers a retreat with premium perks — extensive seating, a deluxe restroom and a full bar. It is the perfect spot for beer lovers and festival-goers who want to celebrate in style. Order tickets here: https://bucketlisters.com/experience/old-town-oktoberfest
“We are thrilled to be hosting the inaugural Old Town Oktoberfest,” said Marcy Huttas, Executive Director of the Old Town Merchants & Residents Association. “Early German immigrants played a key role in shaping the cultural identity of our neighborhood. We are excited to establish this new tradition and encourage attendees to explore all that Old Town has to offer. The $5 suggested gate donation will help make this an annual neighborhood event for all to enjoy.”
Whether you're here for the music, the food, or simply to raise a glass with friends, Old Town Oktoberfest is your ticket to a weekend of unforgettable fun. For information visit: https://chicagoevents.com/event/old-town-oktoberfest/
Entertainment Schedule:
Friday
6:00pm – Four Star Brass Band
8:15pm – Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute
Saturday
Noon - String Music by Classical German Composers
1:30pm – Live Band Karaoke (where you become the star!)
4:00pm – Four Star Brass Band
6:00pm – Rosie & The Rivets
8:00pm – Super Creeps: The Music of David Bowie
Sunday
Noon - String Music by Classical German Composers
2:00pm – Die Musikmeisters
3:30pm – Recorded Music
4:00pm – Big City Nights (Scorpions Tribute)
6:00pm – Stache
The Old Town Merchants & Residents Association (OTMRA) connects area residents, small businesses, and cultural organizations. Old Town is a neighborhood rich in multigenerational family businesses, comedy, architecture, great food and drink, and more. Our goal is to continue Old Town’s evolution as a safe and vibrant location to live, work and laugh. Learn more about OTMRA as well as Old Town’s unique shops and restaurants by visiting oldtownchicago.org.
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