Lansing Oktoberfest 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Oktoberfest. In September.

Lansing Oktoberfest is scheduled for September 11 and 12 at Adado Riverfront Park. (Photo via Lansing Oktoberfest)

I know. It feels a little like putting up the Christmas tree before Thanksgiving. But before we accuse Lansing of rushing the calendar, here's something I just learned. This is actually how Oktoberfest works.

Why Is Oktoberfest in September?

The original Oktoberfest celebration started in Munich, Germany, in October 1810, but over the years organizers moved the start into mid-September to take advantage of better weather. So the Lansing Oktoberfest happening September 11 and 12 is not early. It's traditional.

What to Expect at Lansing Oktoberfest 2026

Lansing Oktoberfest takes over Adado Riverfront Park Friday from 3 to 10 p.m., and Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., with German beer, wine and cider, Bavarian food, live music, alphorns, stein-holding contests, keg rolling, a keg toss, and possibly the most important event of the weekend: dachshund racing.

Dachshund races are among the entertainment planned at Lansing Oktoberfest. (Photo via Lansing Oktoberfest)

Yes. Racing wiener dogs. I'm in.

Lansing Oktoberfest Isn’t Just for Adults

And despite all the talk about beer, this is absolutely not an adults-only party. Lansing Oktoberfest is open to all ages, and kids 14 and younger get in free. There's even a Kids Zone with inflatable slides, an obstacle course, Giant Connect 4, Giant Jenga and more.

Run the Lansing Oktoberfest 5K

Saturday also starts with the Oktoberfest 5K on the Lansing River Trail, beginning and ending at Adado Riverfront Park. Registration includes festival admission and your first beer, cider or wine afterward.

So Mom and Dad can enjoy an Oktoberfest beer, the kids can wear themselves out on the inflatables, and everybody can grab a brat, a pretzel or some mini-donuts.

Lansing Oktoberfest Admission and Ticket Prices

General admission starts at $5 online, and proceeds benefit Rabbit Angels Rabbit Rescue.

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Prost, Lansing. Apparently September really is Oktoberfest season.

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Source: Lansing Oktoberfest Brings Beer, Brats and Racing Wiener Dogs This Weekend

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