Newberry Oktoberfest celebrates 25 years in downtown Newberry
September 25, 2026
A favorite fall tradition is hitting a big milestone with the 25th anniversary of Newberry’s annual Oktoberfest event, happening on Friday, October 2 and Saturday, October 3, 2026, in the heart of downtown Newberry.
The festivities begin Friday, from 4-8 p.m. with brews and bites featuring live music on the entertainment stage. Many vendors will be on site Friday evening offering a sampling of items, including German dishes. Official event merchandise will also be available to purchase on both Friday and Saturday.
The fun will continue Saturday starting at 10 a.m. and lasting until 6 p.m. with lots of new and exciting elements for the festival’s 25th anniversary including an opening ceremony featuring a keg tap inspired by Munich Oktoberfest. Alongside the day’s traditional stage entertainment, the event will include a best German outfit competition along with a new, steinholding competition. Winners from the steinholding competition will have the opportunity to compete in the South Carolina state and national championships.
Several biergartens can be found throughout the event area featuring a variety of German and domestic alcohol options.
Oktoberfest includes fun for the whole family, featuring a Kinderfest Zone with facepainting, carnival rides, magic shows, arts and crafts and more for even the youngest of patrons. New to this year’s event is a Touch-A-Truck area for children and adults alike to explore.
For fans of homemade and handmade items, vendors will line Main Street on Saturday selling a variety of items ranging from jewelry, candles, home décor and more.
“Reaching 25 years is an incredible milestone for Newberry Oktoberfest and for our community,” said Parks, Recreation and Tourism Director Collin Shealy. “Generations of families have made memories here, and local businesses, vendors, volunteers and community partners have all played a role in making this event what it is today. We’re excited to celebrate that history while creating another unforgettable weekend in downtown Newberry.”
For all things Newberry Oktoberfest, visit www.newberryoktoberfest.com.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
What: Newberry Oktoberfest – 25th anniversary
When: Friday, October 2, 2026, 4-8 p.m.; Saturday, October 3, 2026, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: Downtown Newberry, South Carolina
Admission: FREE
Information: newberryoktoberfest.com
About Newberry Oktoberfest
Newberry Oktoberfest is an annual celebration of Newberry’s German heritage held in the historic downtown district of Newberry, South Carolina. Now in its 25th year, the free community festival brings more than 25,000 visitors to downtown each year to enjoy German food and biergartens, live music and entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, children’s activities and more. The event has become one of Newberry’s signature annual celebrations, welcoming residents and visitors from throughout South Carolina and beyond.
