30th Annual Oktoberfest

The Essen Haus is celebrating its 30th consecutive Oktoberfest, one of the longest running Oktoberfest events in Madison and all of Wisconsin. The occasion encompasses Wisconsin’s German heritage, traditional foods and beers, and top polka bands. Keeping with Madison’s love for local, there will be numerous artists from around the area presenting their works and offering activities and prizes for attendees, ranging from kid-friendly face painting to portraits and photos in traditional German garb. Activities include pie eating contests, beer races, hammerschlagan (the stump game), and face painting, to name a few. There will be only the best Oktoberfest foods, from pig and chicken roast to warm pretzels and sauerkraut. As always, we have 16 German beers on tap, including many Oktober beers, and the parking is free and there’s no cover charge.