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Rochester’s First Annual Oktoberfest – September 27th (Free Event!)

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Looking for some frugal Oktoberfest fun that won’t break the bank?

Mark your calendars, Twin Cities friends! On Saturday, September 27th, 2025, downtown Rochester will transform into a lively Bavarian festival for the first-ever Oktoberfest Rochester—and the best part? It’s FREE to attend!

This all-day event, presented by DBS Group, LLC, is packed with music, food, drinks, games, and plenty of fun for the whole family. Whether you’re bringing kids for the dancing and polka music or meeting friends for craft beer and German bites, there’s something here for everyone.

Rochester Oktoberfest

Live Music & Entertainment All Day Long

Oktoberfest wouldn’t be complete without music, and Rochester is going all out with a lineup that mixes traditional polka, Bavarian dance, and good old-fashioned party bands. Highlights include:

  • Craig Ebel & the DyVersaCo (Polka) – 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

  • S.G. Edelweiss Bavarian Dance Group – 1:15 & 4:15 p.m. (Ranked #1 in the U.S. and #2 in the world in 2023!)

  • Twin Cities Soundz (Polka) – 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.

  • The Stand Ups (Classic Rock/R&B) – 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

  • Incognito (Party Band) – 8:00 – 10:00 p.m.

If you’ve got little ones, they’ll love the lively polka tunes and colorful costumes of the dance group. If you’re staying later, get ready for some dancing under the stars!

Rochester Oktoberfest dancers

Eats & Treats Galore

From German bratwursts to Puerto Rican flavors, the food vendors will keep your taste buds happy. Here’s just a sample:

  • Chester’s

  • Tap House

  • Comfort Smash Foods

  • Pizza Karma

  • La Borinqua Puerto Rican Cuisine

  • Oma’s Cookies (a must for dessert!)

Parents can tip back a stein, too—local favorites like Four Daughters, Bitter & Pour, and Kathy’s Pub will be serving up beverages.

Dress the Part – Win a Prize!

Feeling festive? Break out your lederhosen or dirndl for a chance to win a Best Apparel contest (1st–3rd prizes awarded). Even if you don’t go all-in on the Bavarian look, kids will love seeing the costumes!

Giving Back While Celebrating

Beyond the music and food, Oktoberfest Rochester supports a wonderful cause: House of Shields. This Rochester-based nonprofit provides free lodging for police officers and their families while receiving care at Mayo Clinic. So every bratwurst and beer helps make a difference.

Rochester Oktoberfest 2025

Event Details at a Glance

  • When: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

  • Where: Downtown Rochester – 1st Avenue SW between 2nd & 4th Street SW

  • Cost: FREE admission (bring spending money for food & drinks)

Frugal Mom Tip: Since admission is free, this is a perfect family day trip from the Twin Cities. Pack some water, budget a little for treats, and let the music and atmosphere do the entertaining. If you’ve got kids, come early in the day for polka and dancing. If you’re planning a date night, head down later for classic rock and the party band!

Will you be heading to Rochester for this first-ever Oktoberfest?