The Best Oktoberfest Celebrations in DuPage County
Fall in DuPage County means crisp air, changing leaves, and some of the most festive Oktoberfest celebrations you’ll find in the Chicago suburbs. Whether you’re looking for a traditional German beer garden experience, family-friendly fun, or a local block party atmosphere, there’s an event for everyone.
As longtime Downers Grove residents and local Realtors, The Glover Team is always tuned into the community calendar, and Oktoberfest season is one of our favorites. Below we’ve ranked the top Oktoberfest events happening this September and October, complete with details on food, music, and festivities.
1. Goldfinger Brewing’s Sixth Annual Oktoberfest – Downers Grove
Saturday, September 20, 2025
12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Goldfinger Brewing, 513 Rogers Street, Downers Grove
Goldfinger Brewing’s Oktoberfest tops the list thanks to its authenticity, beer releases and jam packed schedule.
What to Expect:
-
Special beer releases: a six-month lagered Ur-Märzen and a crisp, modern-style Festbier.
-
Keg tappings: The Mayor of Downers Grove, Bob Barnett kicks off the fun at noon with a ceremonial tapping, followed by the Head Brewer’s “Oaktoberfest” tapping at 5 PM.
-
Live music lineup:
-
Squeezebox Heroes (12–3 PM)
-
Prost! (3:30–6 PM)
-
Alt-101 (7–10 PM, rocking the 90s classics)
-
-
Food vendors:
-
Cultivate Community Table (German fare, 12–8 PM)
-
EJ Pierogi (from 3 PM, while supplies last)
-
GP Italiano Pizza (starting 5 PM)
-
-
Games & contests:
-
Bags tournament (2 PM)
-
Hammerschlagen race (3:30 PM)
-
Stein hoisting (6:30 PM)
-
-
Good to know: To-go four-packs available, credit card only, no outside food/drink/pets, and rideshare/Metra strongly encouraged.
2. Downers Grove Oktoberfest – Downtown Downers Grove
Saturday, September 13, 2025
Kids Zone: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Downtown Downers Grove
Tickets & info: www.DGOktoberfest.org
A close second, the 12th Annual Downers Grove Oktoberfest is a true community tradition that blends family fun with fundraising for local schools.
What to Expect:
-
Authentic German food and beverages served throughout the day.
-
Live bands playing a mix of traditional and modern favorites.
-
Kids Zone (12–5 PM) with games and activities for the younger crowd.
-
Community impact: 100% of proceeds benefit the Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58, directly supporting local education.
3. Glen Ellyn Oktoberfest – Glen Ellyn
September 18–20, 2025
Downtown Glen Ellyn
Glen Ellyn’s Oktoberfest stretches over multiple days, making it a flexible choice. Expect lively beer tents, German cuisine, and festive contests like best dressed lederhosen and dirndl competitions. A favorite for anyone who loves to soak in that Bavarian vibe.
4. Oktoberfest at Naper Settlement – Naperville
October 3–4, 2025
523 S Webster St, Naperville
Naper Settlement’s Oktoberfest combines historic charm with modern fun. The heated beer tent ensures the party goes on rain or shine. Guests can enjoy German beer, polka music, and crowd-pleasers like the stein holding contest.
5. Other Fall Festivities Worth Noting
-
Burr Ridge Fall Family Oktoberfest – Ideal for kids, with pumpkin decorating and family games.
-
Woodridge Oktoberfest – A laid-back local gathering with beer, brats, and live bands.
-
Danada Fall Festival in Wheaton – Not technically an Oktoberfest, but a fall classic with hayrides, horse demonstrations, and seasonal fun.
Quick Comparison: DuPage Oktoberfests & Fall Fests 2025 Calendar
| Event | Date & Time | Location | Highlights | Community Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Downers Grove Oktoberfest | Sept 13, Kids Zone 12–5 PM | Downtown Downers Grove | German food & drink, live music, kids activities | 100% of proceeds support District 58 Education Foundation |
| Glen Ellyn Oktoberfest | Sept 18–20 | Downtown Glen Ellyn | Multi-day fest, German food, music, costume contests | Community celebration |
| Goldfinger Brewing Oktoberfest | Sept 20, 12–10:30 PM | Goldfinger Brewing, Downers Grove | Ur-Märzen & Festbier releases, live bands all day, games, contests, food vendors | Local business highlight, draws beer lovers from across the suburbs |
| Burr Ridge Fall Family Oktoberfest | Sept 27 | Burr Ridge Village Center | Family-friendly fest with pumpkin decorating, kids’ activities, food & drink | Local community gathering |
| Woodridge Oktoberfest | Sept 27 | Woodridge Town Center | Casual fest with beer, brats, and live bands | Neighborhood-focused celebration |
| Naper Settlement Oktoberfest | Oct 3–4 | Naper Settlement, Naperville | Heated tent, stein-holding contest, live music | Supports Naperville heritage site |
| Danada Fall Festival | Oct 12 | Danada Equestrian Center, Wheaton | Hayrides, horse demos, fall family activities | Family-oriented, nature education |
Why We Love Oktoberfest Season in DuPage
Events like these are part of what makes DuPage County such a vibrant place to live. Whether you’re sipping Märzen in Downers Grove or enjoying polka in Naperville, there’s a sense of community that shines through.
And if you’re considering moving to the area, or selling your home here, The Glover Team is here to help you make the most of it. We know the neighborhoods, the schools, the festivals, and the lifestyle that make Downers Grove and DuPage County so special.
Thinking about buying or selling in Downers Grove or the surrounding suburbs? Reach out to Sabrina Glover and The Glover Team, your local real estate experts who live, work, and celebrate right here with you.
