DES MOINES, IOWA (July 29, 2026) – Des Moines Biergarten today announced the return of Oktoberfest at Des Moines Biergarten, bringing three days of German bier, live music, traditional games and family-friendly entertainment to Water Works Park Sept. 18-20.
Following a successful inaugural celebration last year, the free festival returns with an expanded lineup of live entertainment, authentic German food, interactive competitions and activities for all ages. A portion of festival proceeds will support the nonprofit organization that operates and maintains Water Works Park.
“Our goal has always been to create an Oktoberfest that’s welcoming to everyone,” said Alec Davis of Orvis Horatio Group, which operates Des Moines Biergarten. “Whether you’re coming for a stein of German beer, live polka music, the competitions, great local food or simply a fun afternoon with family and friends, something is happening all weekend.”
Festival festivities begin Friday afternoon with the annual Golden Keg Bicycle Ride departing from the Iowa State Capitol before arriving at the Biergarten for the ceremonial Golden Keg Tapping led by Mayor Connie Boesen. Throughout the weekend, guests can enjoy continuous live entertainment from regional German and polka favorites, including the Schnitzel Brothers Bier Band, Jim Kucera Band, Happy Players, Drunk & Troubled, Amana Colony Festival Singers, New Jolly German Band and Barefoot Becky.
Traditional Oktoberfest competitions will take place throughout the weekend, including Stein Holding competitions, Sack Races, Pretzel Tosses and Oktoberfest Trivia.
Families can enjoy the Kinder Zone featuring a bounce house, balloon artist, face painter, body marbling and a kids sensory zone. Additional yard games will include Giant Connect Four, Corn Hole, Hammerschlagen and Giant Beer Pong.
Festival food vendors include German Taste, Good Butcher, Karam’s Mediterranean Grill, Local Cow Ice Cream and Strudl Haus, alongside Des Moines Biergarten’s selection of German and local beers.
Admission is free. Commemorative glass steins, food and beverages will be available for purchase throughout the weekend.
For more information and the full Oktoberfest lineup, visit biergarten-oktoberfest.com or follow Des Moines Biergarten on Facebook and Instagram.
About Orvis Horatio Group
Orvis Horatio Group is locally owned by brothers Alec and Evan Davis, Dr. Austin Baeth, and Sam Hoyle. Alec and Evan have more than a decade of experience working in restaurant operations; Austin Baeth is a Des Moines physician and a Representative in the Iowa House; and Sam Hoyle owns a marketing agency, New Tribe Media. The group is behind Dough Co. Pizza, Des Moines Biergarten, and Highland Underground.