Get Tickets for the Dayton Art Institute Oktoberfest

Dust off those lederhosen and shout your best “cheers,” because one of Dayton’s favorite fall traditions, the Dayton Art Institute Oktoberfest, is back to brew up another unforgettable weekend at the museum Sept. 25 through 27.

“DAI’s Oktoberfest is a tradition that brings our community together year after year,” Mark Shaker, DAI interim director and president said in the Aug. 4, 2026 press release.

This year’s festival promises all the flavors, sounds and vibes of a Bavarian celebration in southwest Ohio, welcoming 20,000 guests each year. The weekend kicks off Friday with the Lederhosen Lunch from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Think schnitzel sandwiches, mettwurst and live accordion music from Charlie Campbell.

Then, it's time to dress up and get down at the Preview Party from 7 to 11 p.m., featuring Velvet Crush and Schnickelfritz, plus complimentary draft beer, wine and soft drinks. Tickets start at $65 for members and $85 for non-members. Tickets can also be purchased at the gate for $100. 

Once Saturday rolls around, it’s time for the main festival, which brings two days of over 50 craft and international beers, German and American food, domestic and international wines, cocktails and artisan vendors to the museum grounds. Guests can chill in the food court and main stage areas, catch weekend sports in the TV tent or bring the kids for free family fun at the ACCO Brands FamilyFest.

Also returning this year is the Steinholding Competition, which takes place on Sunday at 2 p.m. on the Food Court Stage. Think you’ve got the strength and stamina? This competition is an official qualifying round for the U.S. Steinholding Association state championships. Contestants will compete to see who can hold a full liter of beer, arm straight out, for the longest time without breaking form. 

Tickets for this fan-favorite event are on sale now, so check out the event page online for info about how to purchase tickets or preregister for one of the many special events at the festival, including the lederhosen lunch, preview party, steinholding contest and others.

“Oktoberfest has something that appeals to every kind of visitor,” Oktoberfest Chairs Briana Snyder and Max Spang said in the Aug. 4, 2026 press release. “Whether you're discovering a new favorite band, browsing one-of-a-kind artwork in the artisan tents, enjoying the wide variety of delicious food and drink or simply spending time with your friends and family, every part of the festival is designed to create lasting memories while supporting one of Dayton’s most treasured cultural institutions.”

For more information on tickets and preregistering for special events at the Dayton Art Institute Oktoberfest, visit daytonartinstitute.org.

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