My First Oktoberfest in Leavenworth, WA

The Fall Tradition I Didn’t Know I Needed

Oktoberfest might be a global celebration, but I never really felt drawn to it. Beer, pretzels, and lederhosen just weren’t on my fall to-do list. But this year, my husband suggested we check out Oktoberfest in Leavenworth, and honestly… It felt like the perfect excuse for a cozy fall drive, crisp mountain air, and discovering something new in our own backyard.
If you’re looking for a cozy fall day trip from Seattle, this Bavarian-style town might just surprise you.

My 2025 Oktoberfest Outfit

I was this close to ordering a traditional Oktoberfest outfit with a corset, skirt, and bold prints, but I decided to keep it simple this year. Instead, I went for a minimalist all-denim look with a corset-style top inspired by the classic dirndl silhouette, using pieces I already had in my closet. It still felt festive, comfortable for walking around Leavenworth, and very me.

Next year, though? I’m going all out. Especially after reading this New York Times feature on stylist Rhamée Wetterich, who designed a dirndl using African print fabrics. I absolutely love how she combined heritage and tradition in such a creative way.

Shop the Look

If you’re putting together a casual or modern Oktoberfest outfit, here are some ideas to get the vibe:

• Corset-Style Dirndl Inspiration: Nordstrom.

• High-Waisted Jeans: Mango

• Denim Jacket: Thrifted!

• Sunglasses: Meta Rayban

• Shoes: Adidas Samba

What Is Oktoberfest, Anyway?

Oktoberfest actually started in Munich, Germany, in 1810, as a celebration of the royal wedding between Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. The people of Munich were invited to join the festivities, which included horse races, dancing, and of course… plenty of beer. The party was such a hit that it became an annual tradition, and over 200 years later, it’s now celebrated all over the world.

At its heart, Oktoberfest is about community, good food, and shared laughter.

Photo Source: https://oktoberfest-guide.com/

Trip at a Glance, The Drive & Arrival

Location: Leavenworth, Washington
Drive Time: about 2 hours 45 minutes from Seattle.
2025 Event Dates: October 3-4, 10-11, 17-18
Ticket Price: Around $30 per person (buy online to skip the box office lines)

We left Seattle mid-morning, and after about 2 hours and 45 minutes, we arrived in Leavenworth, a town that looks like it’s straight out of a European fairytale.

We pre-purchased our tickets online on the Leavenworth website (highly recommend!), parked a few blocks away, and wandered toward the main square. As we got closer, the music kicked in as a woman playing a horn signaled the start of the festivities (see picture above). Cue the dancing, costumes, and the smell of warm pretzels in the air.

Inside the Tent: Music, Food & Festivities

When you arrive, there are two lines to enter: a main one (long) and a back one (much shorter, thank me later). Once you’re through bag check, it’s fun energy: clinking glasses, live bands, and plenty of food stalls. I’m not much of a beer girl, but I tried the blueberry basil cider from Endless Orchard that was surprisingly refreshing. My husband went for one of the local brews, and of course, we split a pretzel the size of my head.

Inside the tent, a live band played classic tunes, and soon enough, there was a beer-holding contest that had everyone cheering. We stayed for about an hour, soaked it all in, and then continued exploring Leavenworth beyond the festival.

Photo Source: Pexels.com

Beyond the Beer Tent

Leavenworth itself is worth the trip even without Oktoberfest. The streets are lined with Bavarian-style buildings, cute gift shops, cafés and wine bars. We had lunch at a “Wok About Mongolian Grill” Mongolian grill with a beautiful patio view of the mountains—nothing fancy, but the DIY wok sauce experience was so fun.

If you visit, take time to:

• Walk through the main square

• Stop by for some wine at one of the many wineries

• Browse local art shops or bakeries

• Grab something sweet at The Gingerbread Factory

Even without a festival ticket, there’s plenty to enjoy.

Tips for Visiting Oktoberfest in Leavenworth

• Buy tickets ahead of time to skip the main line. If you are not one that like standing (and overpriced beer), you may not need to buy a ticket, but can enjoy dancing and music in the street. They also have pints that you can enjoy from one of the pubs in the area and watch free entertainment happening at the main center.

• There’s a shorter back entrance most people miss!

• Bring cash for food stalls.

• Wear comfortable shoes (and layers, it gets chilly as soon as the sun sets).

• Parking fills up quickly, so aim to arrive before noon.

Final Thoughts

Oktoberfest in Leavenworth turned out to be one of those simple day trips that remind you how much joy can fit in a single afternoon: music, laughter, and mountain views included.

If you’ve been on the fence about going, this is your sign. Pack your favorite fall outfit, grab a friend (or your person), and make a little adventure out of it.

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