Many Oktoberfest celebrations have come and gone, but there are still plenty around Chicagoland to enjoy. Prost!
Oktoberfest at Hofbräuhaus Chicago
Where: Hofbräuhaus Chicago, 5500 Park Place, Rosemont
When: Now through Oct. 23, 2016; Oktoberfest food specials Mon. Fri.4 p.m.-close; Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to close.
Cost: No admission cost; Food and beverage extra
Family-friendly? Ja, bring them along! Sundays are extra kid-friendly.
One of my family’s favorite ways to celebrate Oktoberfest is at Hofbräuhaus Chicago. Nosh on delicious Bavarian specialties such as larger-than-your-head pretzels, schnitzels, sausages and other German dishes while you listen to toe tapping live musical entertainment. Don’t forget to try a stein of their Oktoberfest bier. While it’s always family friendly, Sundays are a great time to visit as it’s designated as Haribo Sundays and you can score free gummies. The youngins will be mystified by the magician that visits from 1-3 p.m. Another option is to visit on Tuesdays when kids eat free. Maybe schedule a visit during MB Financial Park’s Family Fall (October 15, 1-6 p.m.) where families can enjoy free horse-drawn carriage rides, balloon sculpting, face painting, magic acts, pumpkin painting and watch a 500 lb. pumpkin being carved.
Where: Lynfred Winery, 15 South Roselle Road, Roselle
When: Oct.1: 3-9 p.m.; Oct. 2: 12-7 p.m.
Cost: $3 admission, kids 13 and under are free; Food and beverage extra
Family-friendly? Ja, bring them along!
Who says Oktoberfest is limited to beer only? Lynfred Winery has a family-friendly two-day celebration full of German sing-a-longs, grape spitting and Lynfred’s Oktoberfest wine, which will be released at the start of the festival. The highlight of the weekend is the roasted pig which can be enjoyed as a sandwich or a meal. Have a sweet tooth? Taffy apples, apple strudel or German chocolate cake await you at the dessert booth. Dress in Lederhosen for a chance to win the costume contest.
Oktoberfest at Naper Settlement
Where: Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville
When: Sept. 30: 5-10 p.m.; Oct. 1: 12-10 p.m.
Cost: $15 adult; $10 youth (4-12); Under 4 and Naper Settlement Members are free; Food and beverage extra
Family-friendly? Ja, bring them along! Family-friendly activities will be available on Saturday from 12-4 p.m.
Enjoy celebrating at the outdoor living history museum. Boogie down to music on Friday, but if you’re looking for family-friendly fun, visit on Saturday for activities from Pinot’s Palette, PRO Martial Arts and Naper Settlement. The historic buildings will be open for touring from 12-4 p.m.
Where: Berghoff Restaurant, 17 West Adams, Chicago
When: Sept. 8-Oct. 8
Cost: Admission free; Food and beverage extra
Family-friendly? Ja, bring them along!
The month-long indoor celebration at one of the oldest restaurants in Chicago includes a special Oktoberfest lunch and dinner menu along with live music on Thursday, Friday and Saturday featuring The Johnny Wagner Band, Bratwurst Brothers, Alpine Thunder and more.
McHenry Sunrise Rotary’s Oktoberfest
Where: VFW Post #4600, 3002 W. Route 120, McHenry
When: Oct. 15: 6-9 p.m.
Cost: $30 adult; $50/pair of tickets
Family-friendly? Nein! It’s the perfect opportunity for a date night.
Did someone say unlimited beer sampling? Admission also includes a commemorative event mug on a lanyard, one free sausage with fresh chips provided by the VFW. Satisfy in knowing that proceeds from this beer-tastic event will benefit charity. It’s a win-win all around!
American Aid Society of German Descendants’ Oktoberfest
Where: German/American Cultural Center, 259 West Grand Ave.,Lake Villa
When: Oct. 1: 6:30 p.m.-Midnight
Cost: $8; Food and beverage extra
Family-friendly? Nein! It’s the perfect opportunity for a date night.
Don’t miss out on this last weekend of celebrating all things German. Dance to live music, join the German dancers and enjoy people’s good company. Tip: Run over to Groupon for an awesome deal (entry and food!)
