Oktoberfest Press Release - Hofbräu, Free Kinderplatz Admission, Carousel and Complimentary Shuttles
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sept. 2, 2025
Contact: Jessica Stoller, Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce, 509-548-5807, media@leavenworth.org
OKTOBERFEST IN LEAVENWORTH WELCOMES HOFBRÄU, SHOWCASES LOCAL WINES & CIDERS, AND UNVEILS AN UPGRADED KINDERPLATZ WITH FREE ADMISSION, A CAROUSEL, AND COMPLIMENTARY SHUTTLE SERVICE
(LEAVENWORTH, Wash.) — The beloved Bavarian-style Oktoberfest returns to downtown Leavenworth for three festive weekends, October 3–4, 10–11, and 17–18, with new beer offerings, local wine and hard cider selections, and an expansive, free Kinderplatz featuring a carousel and more. All attendees are strongly encouraged to reserve tickets in advance at leavenworth.org/oktoberfest before VIP tables sell out.
Beer Lineup: Welcoming Hofbräu & More
This year’s Oktoberfest in Leavenworth pours on the tradition with an impressive beer selection that spans both sides of the Atlantic. Making its highly anticipated debut is Hofbräu München, offering its celebrated Oktoberfestbier, Dunkel, Hefe Weizen, and Original Lager—all imported straight from Germany for an authentic Bavarian taste.
Hofbraü will be joined by returning German favorites, including Paulaner, Ayinger, Spaten, and Weihenstephaner, each bringing their signature styles to the celebration. From crisp lagers and rich, malty marzens, to wheaty, bright hefeweizens and tasty non-alcoholic offerings, the variety is unmatched.
On the local side, festival-goers can raise a stein to the custom Leavenworth Festbier, brewed exclusively for Oktoberfest as a collaboration between Icicle Brewing Co., Doghaus Brewery, and Blewett Brewing. Whether you crave traditional German imports or handcrafted local brews, there’s something here to toast for everyone.
Sip Local: Washington Wines & Hard Ciders
Not a beer buff? No problem. The festival proudly showcases the best of Washington’s vineyards and orchards, offering a selection of crisp Pacific Northwest wines and hard ciders crafted from local apples.
Kinderplatz: Bigger, Better, and FREE
Families will be thrilled by the transformed Kinderplatz, which now offers free admission. This year’s highlights include:
A brand-new carousel
Exciting new carnival games
A convenient snack shack
The towering 62-foot Ferris wheel
A lively root beer garden
With these new additions, Kinderplatz is more family-friendly than ever—and still budget-friendly, too. For extra family fun, Kinderplatz will also be open on two special Sundays—October 5 and October 12.
Free Shuttle Service Makes It Easy
Getting to and from the celebration is stress-free, thanks to a complimentary shuttle service running on Fridays and Saturdays of each festival weekend. Shuttles (East, West, and Central) begin approximately one hour before opening and run through 12:15 a.m., with convenient stops at Icicle Road, Sleeping Lady, Safeway Park & Ride, Ski Hill Drive, and more. Just wave to board—no wristband or ticket required.
Secure Your Tickets & Lodging—VIP Tables Expected to Sell Out
Tickets are available now through the festival’s official site at www.leavenworth.org/Oktoberfest. General admission includes access to all three beer gardens and the festival grounds at Festhalle and Front Street Park, while Leavenworth’s charming downtown remains open and free to explore. VIP tables featuring reserved seating, commemorative steins, and dedicated table service, are expected to sell out quickly, so book early for the best experience.
Lodging fills up quickly during Oktoberfest, and visitors are encouraged to book their accommodations early. For a complete list of lodging properties and availability, visit www.leavenworth.org/lodging before it’s too late.
About Oktoberfest in Leavenworth
Oktoberfest in Leavenworth is brought to you by the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce, which also produces Christmastown, Winter Karneval, Love from Leavenworth, and Maifest. Additional Oktoberfest entertainment support has been provided by Rhein Haus. Kinderplatz sponsorship is provided by the München Haus, and local businesses supporting our efforts toward making Oktoberfest a zero-waste event include Love Leavenworth Vacation Rentals, SOUTH, Evergreen Family Wines, and Autumn Haus Apartment Homes. For more information visit www.leavenworth.org
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