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. 26 through 28.

This year’s festival promises all the flavors, sounds and vibes of a Bavarian celebration in southwest Ohio, welcoming 25,000 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 Mojoflo and Schnickelfritz, plus complimentary draft beer, wine and soft drinks. Tickets start at $55 for members and $75 for non-members. Tickets can also be purchased at the gate for $95. 

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.

For the first time in over 30 years, Oktoberfest will be offering a custom commemorative poster for guests to take home. This year’s design was created by local artist Sam Trimble, whose personal ties to both the Dayton Art Institute and German heritage make this a truly meaningful piece. Trimble will be at the festival all weekend at the Mugs and Tees booth, signing copies of the limited-edition poster.

“I grew up just north of Dayton, where the Dayton Art Institute played a major role in shaping my love for art and design, a passion that ultimately led me to my career,” Trimble said in an Aug. 1, press release. “Oktoberfest also holds a special place in my heart. As a child, my grandma would take me every year, always full of love for our German heritage.”

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 go on sale on Aug. 6, 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.

“This beloved celebration is one of Dayton’s longest-standing traditions and the largest fundraiser for the Dayton Art Institute,” Steve Breitenstein, one of the Oktoberfest Chairs said in the Aug. 1, press release. “Supporting Oktoberfest means supporting the arts, education and cultural vitality of the entire Dayton region.”

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

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