Oktoberfest in Big Bear Lake: Our New Favorite Family Tradition
There’s just something about the mountain air in Big Bear. Crisp, cool, pine-scented—it hits different when you’re coming up from the desert heat. Add in live music, nonstop laughter, and the sound of people clinking steins together, and you’ve got yourself one heck of a weekend. Big Bear has been celebrating Oktoberfest for 55 years, and after hitting opening weekend, we’re officially hooked. This is a trip we’re already planning to repeat every fall.
Intro Summary / Key Points
Big Bear Oktoberfest Family Weekend Recap
Our full family weekend escape from Coachella Valley to Big Bear for opening weekend of Oktoberfest
Why we’re hooked after our first visit: German music, great food, contests, beer, and mountain vibes
Family-friendly experience with themed weekends honoring heroes and kid-focused Sundays
Cozy cabin rental + time with extended family made it even more special
Bonus stop: Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain (mini theme park with coaster, go-karts, and more)
Tips on what to wear, where to stay, and why Big Bear is the perfect fall getaway
Family Time in the Mountains
This year, we made it a big family thing. Aaron’s siblings and mom came along, and we rented a cozy cabin on VRBO that fit all of us. There’s just something special about everyone being under one roof—sharing meals, hanging out on the deck, laughing late into the night. For us desert folks, where “fall” still feels like summer, escaping to the cool mountain air was exactly what we needed.
Oktoberfest Vibes
We rolled up with the whole crew and dove right into the fun—indoor and outdoor spaces buzzing with energy, German bands keeping the dance floors full, and plenty of fun contests and games to join in on (yes, we played cornhole and beer pong like teenagers).
The food? Pure comfort. The beer? Flowing everywhere you turned. And don’t even get me started on the merch shop—so many fun finds.
One of the best parts was seeing how many people dressed up. Lederhosen, dirndls, hats—you name it. Aaron and I jumped in on the fun and grabbed outfits from Amazon. Mine was apparently very convincing—so much so that people kept asking me festival questions like I worked there.
Honoring Heroes
Another cool thing about Oktoberfest is how they dedicate entire weekends to honor U.S. Military and first responders. Our brother-in-law is a police officer, so he got in free, and his wife scored a discounted ticket.
That deal also goes for veterans, healthcare workers, and firefighters. Immediate family and significant others get discounted admission too—$14 for adults and just $6 for kids.
Mark your calendars—the tribute weekends for 2025 are:
Sept. 6–7
Sept. 13–14
Nov. 1–2
Nov. 8
It felt good to be part of something that shines a spotlight on the people who serve and protect our communities.
Is Oktoberfest Kid-Friendly?
Totally. We decided to let our kids chill at the cabin this time, but Sundays are “Family Fun Days” with free admission for kids under 12. They’ve got
Bounce houses
Balloon artists
Carnival-style games
…And even kids’ contests like pretzel tosses and mug-holding challenges.
If you’re looking for a family outing, this festival delivers.
Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain
Before heading back down to the Coachella Valley, we made one more stop—and wow, it was worth it. Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain is more than just the iconic slide. It’s basically a mini amusement park tucked into the mountain.
The Mineshaft Coaster was the hands-down favorite—flying down the mountain with views for days.
Putt-putt golf was a big hit too. Even with Casen on crutches after his baseball injury, he was able to play and had a blast.
They’ve also got go-karts and a water slide (seasonal), plus of course, the original Alpine Slide for that classic Big Bear thrill.
We laughed, competed, and soaked up every minute before reluctantly packing up for the drive home.
Why Big Bear is the Perfect Escape
When you live in the desert, you dream about cooler air come fall. Big Bear is the perfect getaway—close enough for a weekend trip but far enough to feel like a real vacation. You get the best of both worlds: crisp evenings by the fire and sunny days full of mountain adventures. Add Oktoberfest into the mix, and you’ve got a guaranteed good time with family, friends, and memories that stick.
So if you’ve been thinking about planning a trip, let this be your sign. Big Bear Oktoberfest runs through November 8th—grab your crew, book a cabin, and head up the mountain. Prost! 🍻
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Big Bear Oktoberfest worth visiting from the Coachella Valley?
Absolutely. Just a 2–3 hour drive from Palm Desert, Big Bear offers crisp mountain air, festive energy, and an escape from the desert heat. Oktoberfest is one of the town’s best seasonal experiences.
Is Big Bear Oktoberfest family-friendly?
Yes! Sundays are designated as “Family Fun Days” with free admission for kids under 12, games, contests, bounce houses, and carnival-style fun.
What should I wear to Oktoberfest in Big Bear?
Many attendees dress up in traditional German outfits like lederhosen or dirndls. We got ours on Amazon and joined the fun—no pressure, but it makes the experience more festive!
When is Oktoberfest in Big Bear?
It runs from early September through early November. Tribute weekends for military, police, and first responders offer free or discounted admission.
What else is there to do in Big Bear during the fall?
Don’t miss the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, the Mineshaft Mountain Coaster, putt-putt, go-karts, and hiking trails. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.