By Chris Chamberlain
Is it just me, or does Oktoberfest seem to be coming later and later? (Unlike all the other fall and winter holidays that have already started pumping out decorations in your local store.) No matter when it falls on the calendar, Oktoberfest is always a fun reason to get together with friends for eats and drinks, and Von Elrod’s Beer Hall and Kitchen is usually the place to be for your celebration.
This year, the wunderkinds at Von Elrod’s are clearing the streets from Oct. 3 to 6 as the party expands to the whole block. In addition to the indoor beer hall and outdoor biergarten, they’ll be partying in the streets with local and international traditional malty Oktoberfest beers, DJs, stein-holding contests and Von Elrod’s signature menu of pretzels and bratwursts.
Although most of the events are family-friendly and free to attend, Von Elrod’s has set aside Saturday for a ticketed 21-and-up throwdown. Austin Ray, president and founder of A.Ray Hospitality, explains the schedule and the set-up: “Oktoberfest is when Von Elrod’s is in its most celebratory element. This year’s festival will offer free fun for all ages on Thursday, Friday, and Sunday. On Saturday, we’ll hoist our steins high for a 21+ ticketed event, including our Prost Party Pass, offering a VIP experience with reentry access. However you choose to honor Oktoberfest, we can’t wait to host you in our expansive indoor/outdoor setup.”
Another caveat: Although Von Elrod’s is usually as dog-friendly as any restaurant in town, because of the size of the expected crowds, you’ll have to leave the hound at home this time.
Here’s the full schedule of festivities:
Thursday, Oct. 3, 4 to 11 p.m.
- 5 to 11 p.m.: DJ Guy Fell in the Beer Garden
- 8 p.m.: Stein-Holding Contest
Friday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Biscuits, BAMs & Beers
- 5 to 11 p.m.: DJ Guy Fell in the Beer Garden
Sunday, Oct. 6, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Biscuits, BAMs & Beers
- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.: DJ Guy Fell in the Beer Garden
- On Saturday, Von Elrod’s Oktoberfest will host The Big Party, which is a paid, ticketed event for ages 21+.
Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 a.m. to 11 pm.
- $10 general admission at the door (no presale), which includes a can of Von Elrod’s Pilsner
- DJ Guy Fell in the Beer Garden all day
- Stein-Holding and Costume Contests throughout the day
A limited number of Prost Party Pass tickets will be available for purchase for $99 plus taxes and fees, which offer the following perks:
- Skip-the-line entry
- Commemorative ceramic stein
- Re-entry access; come and go as you please
- Two cans of Von Elrod’s Pilsner upon event entry
Von Elrod’s Oktoberfest will be a cashless event. Designated drivers or rideshare are encouraged for the event. For more information and updates, visit vonelrods.com/oktoberfest.
The full article is available here.