Oktoberfest Celebration 2026 

Saranac Brewery is raising a stein to celebrate fall in true Bavarian style. Based on strong feedback from last year, the 2026 Oktoberfest Celebration is streamlined into three weekends of music, food, games, and authentic German tradition — a free event that welcomes the whole family, four-legged members included.

Event Details

Celebration Weekends:
Friday & Saturday, September 18–19
Friday & Saturday, September 25–26
Friday & Saturday, October 2–3

Hours:
Fridays: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Food & Beer Specials, game stations set up)
Saturdays: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Location: 1888 Biergarten & Tavern, 830 Varick Street, Utica, NY 13502
Admission: Free | Family & Dog Friendly
NEW: Throughout the festival, guests can enter for a chance to win a year of beer at the beer hut. This year, guests who celebrate in Bavarian attire will get a free beverage! 

Friday Highlights (Sept 18, Sept 25, Oct 2)

• Beer and brat deal
• Oktoberfest bites
• Yard games: beer pong, cornhole, Jenga, darts, and ring toss

Opening Night (Sept 18): Ceremonial keg tap 5:00 PM
Second Keg Tap (Sept 25): Ceremonial keg tap 5:00 PM

Saturday Highlights (Sept 19, Sept 26, Oct 3)

• Stein hoisting competitions
• Yodeling Competition
• German-inspired Beer and Bites

Come for a weekend, come for all three — either way, there’s cold beer, warm pretzels, and Bavarian tradition waiting at the 1888 Biergarten & Tavern.