Celebrate Oktoberfest in Sarasota With These Festive Events

Prost! Celebrate Oktoberfest at these local events.
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Whether you enjoy a stiff pint or pumpkin-flavored beer, the perfect way to ring in the fall season is by attending an Oktoberfest. Here is a list of some local festivals coming up.
Oktoberfest at Edelweiss
Wednesday, Oct. 6, 611 Manatee Ave., Bradenton, (941) 748-3838, edelweissbradenton.com
An open-air beer tent will be set up outside this German restaurant in Bradenton. Enjoy live entertainment on an outdoor stage, authentic food and beer, contests and giveaways and face painting for the kids. Admission is free; does not include cost of food and drinks. Click here for more info.
Oktoberfest at The Lounge at Element
Thursday, Oct. 7-Saturday, Oct. 30, 1409 Main St., Sarasota, (941) 724-8585, theloungeatelement.com
Go to this cocktail lounge on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays in October and become immersed in an upscale Oktoberfest experience. The chef has created a special German-inspired menu, along with specialty cocktails served from 4-10 p.m. on Thursday and 4-11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Sarasota Oktoberfest
Friday, Oct. 15-Sunday, Oct. 17, J.D. Hamel Park (199 Bayfront Drive, Sarasota), paragonartevents.com
Experience all things Bavarian at this annual festival held at J.D. Hamel Park. Hours are Friday, Oct. 15, from 4-10 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 16, from 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; and Sunday, Oct. 17, from 11 a.m.-6 p.m. The weekend will include food like smoked sausage, sauerkraut, cabbage, pretzels and pints of beer. Enjoy live authentic German music and dancing. Admission is free. Click here for more info.
Celtoberfest VI-Music & Beer at Motorworks Brewing
Friday, Oct. 15-Sunday, Oct. 17, 1014 Ninth St. W., Bradenton, (941) 567-6218, motorworksbrewing.com
A clash of Celtic and Bavarian culture should not be missed at Motorworks Brewing in downtown Bradenton. Sarasota's New World Celts will host live music from local bands, beer tasting and kilt- and lederhosen-wearing contests. Enjoy vendors and food specials. Event is family and dog-friendly. Tickets range from $10-$40; purchase here.
Fourth Annual Good'toberfest at Good Liquid Brewing Company
Saturday, Oct. 16, 4824 14th St. W., Bradenton, (941) 896-6381, thegoodliquidbrewing.com
This Bradenton brewery is celebrating Oktoberfest with German food and entertainment. Enjoy German brews on tap and the return of the German Chocolate Cake Stout. One liter "das boots" available for purchase with your first fill. Come dressed in your Oktoberfest garb and be ready to dance the night away. Hours are noon-9 p.m. Admission is free.