It may seem like we were just toasting our beer steins and doing the Chicken Dance in the streets, but here we are again and it's time for the country's largest Oktoberfest — Oktoberfest Zinzinnati. Held during the third weekend of September, this year's epic event will take place on 2nd and 3rd Streets downtown from the 15th through the 17th. This one-of-a-kind celebration is Cincinnati's biggest party and you'll want to be there.
Every September, Cincinnati's downtown streets come to life with all things German. Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is the largest in the country and given our vast German heritage, it's easy to understand why this event is the party of the year.
This year, starting Friday, September 15th, grab your Lederhosen and make plans to join the rest of the city downtown. The weather is looking fantastic, which will surely mean big crowds, excited to fill up their beer steins, eat Servatii's pretzels, and experience all of the uniqueness and amazing people-watching Oktoberfest brings.
The weekend is filled with unique events and it kicks off with the most adorable and hilarious of them all — the Running of the Wiiners.
Friday at 11:00 a.m., on Race St. between 2nd and 3rd Streets, dressed up dachshunds will race for the title "King of the Wiener Dogs."
And of course, the most popular event of the weekend is the World's Largest Chicken Dance. On Sunday at 1 p.m. at the main stage, the Grand Marshall of Oktoberfest will lead a crowd of thousands in the infamous dance. It's silly, fun, and a little strange... but it's tradition.
The food and entertainment are also huge draws and make this festival even more authentically German.
You'll find booth after booth of pretzels, sausages, bratwurst, Reubens, and of course plenty of German beer. Definitely be sure to come hungry.
There is constant entertainment throughout the weekend in the form of dancers and musicians. There are multiple stages, tents, and bier gartens where you can relax and enjoy. Be sure to check out their website, linked below, for the whole lineup.
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is a beloved Cincinnati tradition that is fun for the whole family.
With family-friendly areas for the kids, including rides, and countless options for food, drink, and entertainment, it's sure to be an epic German-filled weekend in downtown Cincinnati.
Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is a tradition like no other in our city. Are you planning on attending this year? What is your favorite part of the festival? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
For more information on this year's Oktoberfest, visit their official website here.
And for a classic German restaurant along the river near Cincinnati, check out our previous article here.
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