Chicago's Most Authentic Oktoberfest - at the DANK Haus! 

❤️ Why It Matters ❤️

When you raise a stein at our DANK Haus Oktoberfest, you are doing more than celebrating-- you are giving back. Every brat, every stein, and every ticket helps fund our non-profit mission to preserve German culture, language, and traditions while supporting programs and events that enrich the Chicago community. 

For years, the DANK Haus German American Cultural Center has been home to Chicago's most authentic Oktoberfest! Join us in our historic Marunde Ballroom on Saturday, September 27 from 6:30 PM to 11:30 PM for a night filled with tradition, community, and gemütlichkeit. 

Brats, Leberkäse & Bavarian Bites
From hearty Leberkäse dinners with sauerkraut & potato salad to juicy bratwursts, smoky Thüringer, and Halbes Hendl (1/2 chicken) — plus sweet treats like delicious Apfelstrudel and Bienenstich. Every bite is the real deal, made to keep you fueled for the fest!

Steins, Sips & German Spirits
Raise your glass with authentic imports: Hofbräu Oktoberfest, Würzburger Hofbräu, Julius Echter Weissbier, Stiegl Radler, and Bitburger NA options. Not into beer? Enjoy a selection of German red and white wine, Aval Blanc cider, or a round of schnapps to keep the night spirited!

Musik & Entertainment 

No Oktoberfest is complete without lively tunes and cultural performances:

• Alpine Thunder - A lively, interactive, German band bringing folk and pop music with authentic instruments, German/English vocals, yodeling, and alpine folk instruments such as tuned cowbells and alphorns.
• Rheinmaiden Alphorns - Crafted from spruce and rattan, alphorns were once used by shepherds in the Alps. The Rhinemaidens bring these majestic instruments to life.
• Schuhplattler Verein Edelweiss - Founded in 1914, this historic group keeps Bavarian and Austrian traditions alive with Schuhplattler, Volkstänze (folk dances), and songs—all performed in traditional Tracht.

Festive Fun & Friendly Competition

Celebrate Oktoberfest with high-energy Bavarian games like our famous Yodeling Contest and Stein-Holding Challenge! Dance to lively German tunes, cheer on friends, and join in the excitement of the ceremonial keg tapping!

Doors open at 6:30 PM.

Online RSVP is not required, but greatly appreciated. This helps us get an idea of how many people will be attending and helps us to plan accordingly. Walk-ins are always accepted!

Free parking at 5/3 Bank after 6:00 PM located at Western and Gunnison