Oktoberfestivities in Lake Murray Country

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Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany, is a lively celebration of Bavarian culture with giant beer tents, traditional music, and delicious food. It’s all about enjoying Bavarian beer and a festive atmosphere and bringing people from around the world together to celebrate. 

 

The historical presence of German-speaking settlers in the Dutch Fork region, including areas in modern-day Newberry, Lexington, and Richland counties, has strongly influenced modern Oktoberfest celebrations. The term “Dutch Fork” itself originates from the German “Deutsch Volk” (German people). Despite changes in the landscape, the area’s German heritage remains significant to this day. The German culture and language were able to persist into the early 20th century, contributing to the popularity of Oktoberfest celebrations in the region today. We’ve listed some local Oktoberfest events so you can get a taste of the famous German festival in Lake Murray Country. Don’t be a sauerkraut; join the party!

 

Blythewood Oktoberfest | Friday, October 6 – Saturday, October 7

The Blythewood Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual two-day Oktoberfest celebration this weekend, Friday, October 6, and Saturday, October 7. The free event will have German food and beverages, Biergartens, local vendors, and swag for the whole family.

Newberry Oktoberfest | Saturday, October 7

Voted best festival by the Newberry Observer’s Reader’s Choice, you don’t want to miss this Oktoberfest extravaganza. On Saturday, October 7, downtown Newberry will be filled with live music and performances, German cuisine, traditional costume contests, a kids’ zone, and much more.

Oktoberfest at Columbia Craft Brewing Company | Saturday, October 7

Enjoy delicious food from the Wurstwagon and live entertainment by The Regulars at Columbia Craft Brewing Company on Saturday, October 7. Get hoppy because the brewery will release a new beer lineup during the celebration. 

Oktoberfest at River Rat Brewery | Saturday, October 7

River Rat has a jam-packed celebration planned for October 7, featuring live music by Die Lustigen Musikanten Band and Bob Planner, dishes like schnitzel, bratwurst, and pretzels, and new specialty drinks for the occasion.

Steinfest at Hazelwood Brewing Company | Saturday, October 7

Steinfest is Hazelwood Brewing Company’s own version of Oktoberfest, happening on Saturday, October 7. In collaboration with Bierkeller Columbia, there will be Steinbier, a slightly smokey, dark German lagerbier brewed with oak-fired hot granite stones, available for tasting and purchase. 

Columbia Oktoberfest | Friday, October 20 – Sunday, October 22

Oktoberfest in Columbia spans over three days, giving you more opportunities to stop by. There will be classic Oktoberfest offerings at this free event, live Oompah bands and dancers, and tons of fun for the whole family.

Oktoberfest at Bierkeller | Saturday, October 14 – Sunday, October 15

The newly opened Bierkeller will host an Oktoberfest celebration on Saturday, October 14, and Sunday, October 15. The festival will feature live music from Channelheimers, a Bavarian oompah quartet from Augusta, food, and beer.

Oktoberfest at WECO | Friday, October 13 – Sunday, October 15

With authentic German beers on tap and various food trucks all weekend long, WECO Bottle & Biergarten is the place for laid-back Oktoberfest vibes. Check out the food truck lineup and plan your visit.

 

While you’re enjoying a taste of Germany this weekend, let us know where you are celebrating in the region by tagging us in your social media photos #LakeMurrayCounty. For more information and to plan your next Lake Murray Country adventure, visit LakeMurrayCountry.com/events.

Prost! (German for Cheers)