Oktoberfest in South Carolina

South Carolina is an American state in the southeastern region known for its subtropical beaches, coastlines, and marshlike sea islands. Another state offering is its vibrant Oktoberfest scenes. Multiple locations in South Carolina celebrate German heritage with lively Oktoberfests in the fall. These Beerfest events are typically held in late September or at the start of October. Towns like Walhalla and Newberry host popular Oktoberfests in the state. The attractions of both events are the beer stein races,  traditional costumes (lederhosen and dirndl), arts and crafts vendors, and carnival rides.

How Does Oktoberfest in South Carolina Begin?

South Carolina's connection to Oktoberfest is attributed to the increase in German immigration, particularly to Charleston. A German Colonization Society was formed in 1848, looking for opportunities beyond the crowded city. Large-scale Oktoberfest celebrations were not prevalent until recently. 

South Carolina Oktoberfest Locations

Walhalla Oktoberfest: 272 Tulip Drive, Hwy 183 Sertoma Field, Walhalla, SC 29691

Newberry Oktoberfest: 1109 Main St, Newberry, SC 29108, USA

Oktoberfest Columbia: 3005 Devine St, Columbia, SC 29205, United States

Major Oktoberfest Celebrations in South Carolina 

South Carolina celebrates its German heritage with vibrant Oktoberfest events throughout the fall. Many towns and breweries host their versions of this popular fall festival.

Walhalla Oktoberfest

A small town in South Carolina hosts Walhalla Oktoberfest during the fall, usually in late September or early October. On the reserved dates, a giant tent wraps up the celebration in the town square. This beerfest, which lasts about three days, perfectly celebrates German heritage. The venue is decorated in German colors (black, red, and gold) and offers everything from beer to German delicacies.

Newberry Oktoberfest

Newberry Oktoberfest is a Bavarian beerfest in downtown Newberry, South Carolina! This Beerfest celebrates German culture with fun contests, traditional music, and beer! The festival keeps everyone entertained with delicious German food like bratwurst, sauerkraut, and pretzels.  Different beers from Germany and the US are served in the beer tents. Kids can also blast on rides, paint faces, and play fun carnival games.

Columbia Oktoberfest

Grab your lederhosen! Every fall, Columbia throws a three-day German party packed with music, dancing, and food. Locals and visitors crowd the streets to clap along to oompah bands and stuff their faces with pretzels bigger than their hands. Tap into over 20 German brews like Hofbräu and Spaten—perfect for toasting “Prost!” with new friends. Don’t miss South Carolina’s own craft beers, either. Sip a hoppy IPA or a sweet pumpkin ale while you people-watch (trust us, the dirndl-and-suspenders outfits are worth it). Kids bounce in play zones or munch on candy-stuffed strudel. Adults compete in stein-holding contests (spoiler: your arm will give up). And when the sun sets, dance floors explode with polka beats and laughter.

South Carolina Oktoberfest Dates & Duration

Walhalla Oktoberfest: October 17-19

Newberry Oktoberfest: October 4

Oktoberfest Columbia: September 27

South Carolina Oktoberfest Dress Code

There’s no official dress code for Oktoberfest events outside Munich, but if you're paying respects to German culture, the best way is to dress just as they do. Authentic Lederhosen for men and Dirndl for women are the official Oktoberfest outfits. You can adorn them with matching dress shirts and Bavarian shoes. Men generally accessorize with a feathered hat, while women can enhance their looks with matching jewelry. 

South Carolina Oktoberfest Tickets & Booking

You can visit the official websites of each location a few months prior to Oktoberfest to check out the new prices and book your spots before they end. Also, check out closely for special events like opening parades, beer hall openings, and Keg tapping time to ensure you’re there on time. 

South Carolina Oktoberfest Highlights & Activities

South Carolina’s Oktoberfest mixes German traditions with Southern charm. Eat hearty food, dance to fun music, and join games for the whole family.

German Food You’ll Love

Fill your plate with crispy schnitzel, cheesy spätzle noodles, and juicy bratwurst. Don’t forget tangy sauerkraut or soft pretzels with mustard! Save room for apple strudel or chocolate cake so rich it’ll make you smile.

Drinks to Try

Sip German beers like Hofbräu or Paulaner—they’re smooth and perfect for toasting. Not a beer fan? Try Radler (beer mixed with lemon soda) or sweet apple cider. Kids get soda or lemonade.

Music & Dancing

Clap along to lively oompah bands playing trumpets and accordions. Watch dancers in colorful outfits stomp to polka beats—or join them if you’re brave! Kids giggle at silly sing-alongs.

Fun for Families

Kids bounce in inflatable castles, play ring toss, or get faces painted like Bavarian fairies. Don’t miss the “wiener dog parade” where dachshunds wear tiny hats! Craft stations let everyone make pretzel necklaces or paper dirndls.

Games & Contests

Test your skills:

• Stein Holding: Carry a heavy beer mug as long as you can (your arm will shake!).

• Bratwurst Eating: Gobble sausages fast—winners get bragging rights!

• Keg Rolling: Race to push beer kegs like a German pro.

Essential Tips for Attending Oktoberfest South Carolina 

• Visit the official websites for every location weeks before the event to find reservation details and the schedule of special performances.  

• Book your hotel accommodations in advance near the event site if you're traveling from any other town.

• Arrive early to secure the best places and enjoy activities in a family-friendly environment.

• Check the weather forecast for your location to dress up accordingly.

• Drink water between beers to stay hydrated.

• Learn and follow the specific event rules to maintain a good festive environment.

• Use public transport to arrive at the events as it will save you from parking hassles.