Oktoberfest, a well-loved Bavarian festival known for its beer, food, and merrymaking, is a popular event worldwide. Here’s how you can celebrate Oktoberfest without leaving West Los Angeles.

Oktoberfest at Brennan’s, Marina del Rey 

Brennan’s Oktoberfest is a lively celebration featuring live music, delicious food, and plenty of beer. This event will feature live wrestling on the turf, kegs and Oktoberfest brews, food specials, and a live polka music performance by Festmeister Hans un die Sauerkrauts. Guests can expect a fun-filled atmosphere with traditional German fare like bratwurst and pretzels. Whether you’re dressed in Lederhosen or just want to enjoy the festivities, Brennan’s Oktoberfest is an excellent way to experience the spirit of this wildly popular tradition.

When: Saturday, October 5

Time: 5:00 p.m. onwards

​​Oktoberfest at the German American Club, Santa Monica

The German American Club of Santa Monica is an apolitical, secular, social club open to people interested in German-American relations and German culture. The club will be hosting a fun event for Oktoberfest 2024. This exciting event will include a thoughtfully curated selection of traditional German beers, authentic food, and live music by the band—The Express. Tickets cost $15.

When: Sunday, October 6 

Time: 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. 

Oktoberfest at Wurstküche Venice

​​Wurstküche Venice is transforming into a Bavarian oasis for Oktoberfest 2024. Attendees can expect traditional German fare, flowing brews, and traditional music to fill the air. Join the festivities for a taste of Munich without leaving West Los Angeles. Tickets cost $65.58 and include a 1L stein filled with Oktoberfest beer. All ages are welcome, but Sunday, October 20th is recommended for families with children.

When: Every weekend in October 

Time: 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Kölsch Service at Los Angeles Ale Works, Culver City 

To celebrate Oktoberfest, and the release of Los Angeles Ale Works’ new beer—Goldilocks Kölsch, the brewery will be serving beers in the traditional German fashion with table-side Kölsch Service. Kölsch Service is a specific style of beer service that originated in Cologne, Germany. Kölsch is traditionally served in tall, narrow glasses that hold about 0.2 liters (approximately 0.17 US gallons). Instead of ordering a single round of drinks, patrons are continuously served fresh Kölsch in rounds. The empty glasses are removed and refilled without asking. This system encourages a relaxed setting. The brewery’s staff will be dressed in lederhosen and dirndls and guests are encouraged to dress up in traditional German clothing as well. 

When: Saturday, October 19

Time: 12:00 p.m. to 11:55 p.m.

Oktoberfest Grilled Cheese & Beer Night! at Andrew’s Cheese Shop, Santa Monica 

Andrew’s Cheese Shop is a great place to go for Oktoberfest. The eatery hosts a special grilled cheese and beer night featuring a variety of delectable sandwiches and craft beers. For this year’s event, the restaurant will be serving its famous grilled cheese recipes with specialty limited-release Oktoberfest-themed beers. The Oktoberfest meal will start with a tangy, zippy starter salad, followed by four courses of their famous grilled cheeses paired with four Oktoberfest-themed specialty beers, and a dessert course of an imperial stout or sour beer float with French Vanilla ice cream. Tickets are $81.88 and sell out quickly. 

When: Friday, October 25

Time: 7:30 p.m to 10:00 p.m.

Happening Nearby: Oktoberfest! At Malibu Wines & Beer Garden

Nestled amidst a picturesque vineyard, the annual Oktoberfest at Malibu Wines & Beer Garden offers a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. This event brings together the vibrant spirit of Bavaria with the laid-back charm of the California coast. Attendees can indulge in traditional Bavarian beers and German-inspired eats from The Berlin Truck featuring German sausages, gourmet grilled cheese, and specialty fries. Each $12 ticket includes your choice of Oktoberfest beer and a branded stein to take home. 

When: Sunday, October 13

Time: 12:00 p.m. onwards

Photo courtesy of Los Angeles Aleworks in Culver City.