Oktoberfest in Hermann, Missouri

Hermann, Missouri hosts one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in Missouri. It is held the first four weekends of October and takes advantage of the beautiful wine country surrounding Hermann, as well as its historic German heritage. The locals are friendly, and make every tourist feel at home.

Highlights of Oktoberfest include tours of all of the local area wineries. My personal favorite tour is the Stone Hill winery tour. Knowledgeable guides walk you through the cellars of Stone Hill winery and explain the history of the winery and the winemaking process. For many years, a highlight of the Stone Hill winery was the large hill that many people who had indulged in a little too much revelry rolled down. Due to damage to the land, this hill has been closed to the public and fenced. The winery still features live traditional German music and dancing, as well as wine tastings.

All of the local wineries offer tours and tastings during Oktoberfest. Highlights include the Hermanhoff winery and Adam Puchta winery. Adam Puchta winery, though slightly outside of Hermann, features a beautiful outdoor area for picnicking and a friendly staff. A recent addition to the Herman Oktoberfest tradition is the Tin Mill microbrewery which is located centrally in downtown Hermann.

If you plan on staying overnight in Hermann during Oktoberfest, reservations need to be made months in advance. Hermann has a plethora of bed and breakfast establishments, as well as guesthouses. These book up early. I have personally stayed at the Gray Stone guesthouse, which is located within walking distance of downtown Hermann. It offers two bedrooms, a hot tub, an outdoor cooking area and a kitchen stocked with all types of breakfast food. If it is available during your stay, I highly recommend it.

Other must sees during Oktoberfest are the historic German School Museum, the Deutschheim State Historic Site, the Oktoberfest German Bier Garten at Sesquicentennial Park and te Wine Country Follies at the Showboat Theatre.

Hermann's Oktoberfest is billed as a family event, and there are events available for the entire family. However, in my experience it is best enjoyed by adults and not many events are interesting for young children. If you are able to spend a day or weekend enjoying the company of friends, Hermann's Oktoberfest is a short trip to a fun destination.