Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest 2026: A Fall Tradition We’ve Loved for Nearly 20 Years

Some Big Bear traditions come and go. Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest is different.

For our family, Oktoberfest has been part of fall in Big Bear for nearly 20 years. Long before Edgar’s Hideaway became our mountain home, we were making the trip to enjoy the music, German food, dancing, festivities, and unmistakable atmosphere that arrives in Big Bear every fall.

It has become one of those traditions we look forward to year after year.

And if you are planning a fall trip to Big Bear in 2026, Oktoberfest deserves a place on your list.

A Big Bear Tradition More Than Five Decades in the Making

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest is celebrating its 56th anniversary, making it one of Big Bear’s longest-running and most recognizable annual traditions.

Its Big Bear roots stretch back more than five decades, when German immigrants Hans and Erika Bandows brought the Oktoberfest tradition they knew from Germany to their new home in the San Bernardino Mountains.

What began as a local celebration grew into one of the best-known Oktoberfest celebrations on the West Coast.

Today, generations of families return to Big Bear each fall to take part.

We understand why. We’ve been doing it ourselves for nearly two decades.

Why We Keep Coming Back

There are plenty of events in Big Bear throughout the year, but Oktoberfest has always been different for us.

Part of it is the tradition.

You know fall has arrived when Oktoberfest returns to Big Bear. The weather begins cooling down, the mountain starts changing seasons, and the familiar sounds of German music and celebration return.

But it is also simply fun.

Oktoberfest brings together live music, dancing, German food, traditional festivities, contests, and plenty of opportunities to raise a stein and say “Prost!”

You do not need to be German to enjoy it. You just need to be ready to have a good time.

German Food, Music and Plenty of Tradition

Food is a major part of the Oktoberfest experience.

Expect the flavors traditionally associated with a German celebration, including sausages, sauerkraut, pretzels and other German favorites.

Then there is the music.

Oktoberfest would not be Oktoberfest without polkas, dancing, and the kind of live entertainment that eventually gets people out of their seats.

If this is your first visit, don’t be surprised if you find yourself participating before the day is over.

That is part of the experience.

More Than a Beer Festival

People sometimes hear “Oktoberfest” and assume the event is simply about beer.

It isn’t.

The Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest has developed into a complete fall event and long-standing mountain tradition. The music, food, dancing, contests, entertainment and festive atmosphere are just as much a part of the experience.

For us, that is one of the reasons it has remained a tradition for so many years.

You can go with family, meet up with friends, spend an afternoon enjoying the festivities, and make Oktoberfest part of a larger fall weekend in Big Bear.

Make a Weekend of It

One of the best ways to experience Oktoberfest is not to rush up and down the mountain in a single day.

Make a weekend of it.

Enjoy Oktoberfest, explore Big Bear, walk through the Village, have breakfast in town, take in the fall mountain scenery, and then return to a cabin where everyone can relax together.

Fall is one of our favorite times of year in Big Bear. The summer crowds begin to change, the temperatures cool, and the mountain starts preparing for winter.

Oktoberfest fits perfectly into that season.

Stay Together at Edgar’s Hideaway

If you are bringing family or friends to Big Bear for Oktoberfest, Edgar’s Hideaway gives the whole group a place to stay together.

Located in Upper Moonridge near Bear Mountain, Edgar’s Hideaway offers nearly 5,000 square feet, five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and accommodations for up to 16 guests.

And the fun does not have to end when you leave Oktoberfest.

Back at the cabin, the group can keep the evening going with:

• • Golden Tee

• • Skee-Ball

• • Shuffleboard

• • Darts

• • Karaoke

• • A private sauna

• • Multiple living and gathering areas

Edgar’s Hideaway is also pet friendly, so the dogs can come along for the Big Bear weekend too.

Nearly 20 Years of Big Bear Oktoberfest Memories

For us, recommending Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest isn’t simply about telling visitors about another local attraction.

We actually go.

For nearly 20 years, Oktoberfest has been part of our family’s Big Bear tradition.

We have watched the event return year after year, and it remains one of those experiences that reminds us why fall is such a special time in the mountains.

If you have never experienced Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest, make 2026 the year you give it a try.

And if you have been before, you probably already understand why so many people keep coming back.

Plan Your Big Bear Oktoberfest Getaway

Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest is one of the signature events of the fall season, and popular fall weekends can fill quickly.

Before making plans, check the official Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest website for current 2026 event dates, tickets, entertainment schedules, admission information and event policies.

Then turn your Oktoberfest visit into a Big Bear weekend.

Edgar’s Hideaway is professionally managed by Destination Big Bear and accommodates up to 16 guests, making it an excellent home base for families and groups visiting Big Bear during Oktoberfest season.

Ready to Plan Your Fall Weekend in Big Bear?

Explore Edgar’s Hideaway, see the amenities, check availability, and start planning your Big Bear Oktoberfest getaway.

VISIT EDGAR’S HIDEAWAY:
www.edgarshideaway.com

Come for Oktoberfest. Stay for the mountains.

And maybe start a Big Bear fall tradition of your own.