Oktoberfest
Crosslake Style
We bring the spirit of Bavaria to the Minnesota Northwoods. Our festival is a celebration of tradition, community, and the unique identity of Crosslake. From our main event tent to 17 local bars, restaurants, and breweries, we invite you to experience a weekend of artisanal food, live music, and festive fun.
Competitions
TrachtFest
WienerFest
Break out the lederhosen, dirndls, and Bavarian flair for TrachtFest, our ultimate Oktoberfest costume competition! Dress to impress, rally the crowd, and compete for a share of an incredible $2,000 prize purse.Â
Get ready for short legs, big personalities, and some seriously fast dachshunds! WienerFest brings the excitement with head-to-head racing plus plenty of laughs and an award for the best-dressed pup. Presented by Crosslake Veterinary Hospital — $250 Fastest Dog + $250 Best Dog Costume!
Stein-Off
Think you have what it takes to outlast the competition? Test your strength and endurance in the Stein-Off as competitors battle to see who can hold their stein the longest. Presented by Grand Champion Meats — $250 Strongest Male + $250 Strongest Female!
GolfenFest
Take Oktoberfest to the links with GolfenFest at Crosswoods Golf Course, featuring golf-themed fun including mini golf at Whistling Wolf, and simulator activities throughout the celebration. Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just looking to have some fun, it’s another great way to join the Oktoberfest action.
Yodel-Off
Think you’ve got what it takes to be Crosslake’s best yodeler? Everyone is invited to compete in the Yodel-Off at 5:00 PM Saturday, and there’s no cost to enter. Step up, give us your best yodel, and compete for the $100 Grand Prize!
Pretzel Toss
Put your tossing skills to the test in one of Oktoberfest’s most entertaining challenges! Grab a pretzel, take your shot, and see if you can land it on the target while earning some serious bragging rights.
SausageFest
Come hungry! Local Crosslake restaurants will put their own spin on SausageFest, serving specialty sausages, dips, seasonal dishes, and Oktoberfest-inspired creations throughout town. Presented by participating Crosslake restaurants and businesses.
Family Fun Zone
Bring the whole family to the Crosslake Oktoberfest Family Fun Zone for an action-packed afternoon of games, friendly competition, creativity, and plenty of laughs! Take on Pretzel Toss, kid-friendly Axe Throwing, Cornhole, and Hammerschlagen, then head to the Arts & Crafts Tent to get creative and make something fun—all while soaking up the festive Oktoberfest atmosphere!
Hammerschlagen
Grab a hammer and see how your skills stack up in this classic Oktoberfest favorite! Competitors battle to drive their nail into the log before everyone else in a fast, simple, and incredibly addictive competition.
Register for the Events
Our Sponsors
We are proud to partner with local businesses and community leaders to make the Crosslake Oktoberfest 2026 a success.
Premier Festival Sponsors
Leinenkugel's Oktoberfest
Crosslake Ideal Lions
Featured Event Sponsors
Crosslake Veterinary Hospital
Grand Champion Meats
66 Marine North
Ace Hardware
Founding Donors
Ace Hardware
A special thank you to Pequot Lakes Sanitation, for providing garbage and recycling services for Crosslake Oktoberfest. Their generous support helps us keep the festival clean, welcoming, and enjoyable for our entire community.
Plan Your Visit
We're making it easy for you to join us at the 2026 Crosslake Oktoberfest. Find everything you need to know about locations, parking, and accommodations for a stress-free weekend.
Location & Directions
The Main Tent is conveniently located right along Route 66 in the heart of Crosslake, in the old Exchange lot, making it easy to reach from throughout the Lakes Area.
Tips for a Great Weekend
Wear comfortable shoes and bring layers as evening temps drop in the Northwoods. Don't forget your ID for adult beverages and arriving early is always best!
Where to Stay
From cozy lakeside cabins to local inns, Crosslake offers variety. Book early at our local Whitefish Lodge & Suites, Pine Peaks Lodge & Suites, or Manhattan Beach Lodge.
​