Ferris wheel rides, unique eats, live music, and more,
offer festive family fun in Downtown Pittsburgh.
Sept. 30, 2026 “Prost” Burgh – Oktoberfest Pittsburgh kicks off tomorrow with the ceremonial keg tapping in Market Square at noon, officially launching two weeks of Bavarian-inspired festivities. Allegheny County Executive, Sara Innamorato, Mayor Corey O’ Connor, Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (PDP) President and CEO, Jeremy Waldrup, and community leaders—some in traditional attire—will help launch the celebration.
Presented by Flyspace Productions and the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, the third annual Oktoberfest Pittsburgh returns with a new and improved identity interwoven into the fabric of the city as PROSTBURGH!
From Oct. 1 – 11, festivalgoers can enjoy the iconic Ferris wheel, Karneval-style games, family-friendly activities, and unique merchandise on the Roberto Clemente Bridge in addition to local brews and imported German drafts, authentic Bavarian cuisine, live music, Oktoberfest featured attractions, and more in Market Square.
“The ceremonial Oktoberfest keg-tapping tradition is nearly 76 years old, and we are thrilled to make it a part of our relatively new celebration in Downtown,” said Jeremy Waldrup, President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership. “The tapping of the keg by the Mayor sets the tone for the entire community, cultural, and family friendly festivities, and this year it’s more important than ever as we merge the unique vibrancy of our city into the festival with our recent reveal of Prostburgh!
“From the beginning, our vision for Oktoberfest Pittsburgh has been to create a signature event that people make part of their fall traditions,” said Jennifer Owen, CEO of Flyspace Productions. “Together with the PDP, we’re proud to bring that vision to life and to keep investing in an experience that gives people a reason to return Downtown year after year.”
Attendees can also maximize their Festival experience with free, unique, and exciting special events. The line-up includes Family Day (Oct. 3) – which will also feature a German Car Show presented by the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix, Pup Day (Oct. 4), presented by Edgar Snyder & Associates, an Oktoberfest edition of the Paint & Sip series (Oct. 5), Wine Night (Oct. 8), presented by Mazza Wines, Steelers and University of Pittsburgh football watch parties, (Oct. 10 –11), and discounted nights for members of Pittsburgh’s oldest and most authentic German club, Tuettonia Männerchor, as well as local University students. See more at oktpgh.com.
LOCAL MUSIC TAKES CENTER STAGE
This year’s Oktoberfest Pittsburgh lineup features new and returning artists, such as No Bad Juju, the Polkamaniacs 4, Madel Jager, Johnny Koenig Band, Polkameisters, The Heritage Band, Mon Valley Push, Casanova & the Divas, Wurst Band, The Barons, Garrett Tatano Band, The Dreadnaughts, and others. See the full schedule at: oktpgh.com/entertainment.
BIERGARTEN MENU BRINGS BAVARIAN FLAVORS TO THE BURGH
Oktoberfest Pittsburgh goers can eat until their heart’s content at the Biergarten in Market Square. Enjoy bites such as The Bavarian Smash burger or the “Brat”-chos,
Brat Tacos, or Grilled Mini Brat Burritos, from featured restaurant partners, Cocky’s Coop, and Moes!
Satisfy those Bavarian cravings with mouthwatering entrees like bratwurst and knockwurst sandwiches, crispy potato pancakes with applesauce and sour cream, and rich käsespätzle. Pretzel aficionados can get their fill with a giant option, served warm with bier cheese and mustard. For those looking to try a little everything, the sausage sampler, complete with kraut and applesauce, is sure to be a crowd favorite. Sweet treats include classic apple and cherry strudels, chocolate and spinach puffs, cinnamon almonds, and Spaghetti Eis.
Wash it all down with a draft selection of authentic German imports including Weihenstephaner Hefeweizen, Weihenstephaner Helles Lager, Weihenstephaner Festbier, Weihenstephaner Dunkel, Weihenstephaner Korbinian, Reissdorf Kölsch, and an Einbecker Pilsner. Plus, domestic brews and ciders from IC Light, Yuengling, Brew Gentleman, and Bold Rock. Non-alcoholic options, including apple cider and soft drinks, ensure everyone can Prost to good times.
View full menus here: https://www.oktpgh.com/ biergarten/
‘TASTE OF OKTOBERFEST’ RETURNS WITH 14 PARTICIPATING DOWNTOWN RESTAURANTS
Beyond the festival grounds, 14 Downtown restaurants—nine in Market Square—are offering special Oktoberfest-themed menus, featuring local flavors with a Bavarian-inspired twist.
Highlights include Cocky’s Coop’s Oktobercluck sandwich, featuring a crispy hand-breaded chicken breast, Bavarian mustard sauce, and pickles on a pretzel bun. City Works fans will be treated to Smoked Brisket Reuben egg rolls and Oktoberfest selections from PA-founded Sly Fox Brewing. Those looking for a break from schnitzel can tackle the Fischbrotchen: Original Oyster House’s famous fish sandwich topped with lettuce, tomato, and a beer-battered onion ring on a Mediterra pretzel roll. Try a German-inspired Döner Kebab sandwich or bowl at Sultan Döner Kebab & Baklava. Oktoberfest meets Mexican flavor at Las Velas in the form of a Berlin taco with bratwurst and chipotle dressing, or delight in the Oktoberfest Loaded Sidewinder Potatoes piled high with seasoned pulled pork, apple kale slaw, fire-roasted Fuji apples, dried cranberries and s drizzle of honey mustard at Redbeard’s Sports Bar and Grill. Go for a sweet treat at Millie’s as they offer up a tasty German chocolate sundae.
See all participating restaurants and their menus here: https://www.oktpgh.com/tasteofokt.
Make way for the authentically unique Prostburgh experience with the iconic Ferris Wheel with support from Riverlife and Comcast and Karneval Games on the Clemente Bridge plus Stein Holding Competitions, Wiener Dog Races, Kinderplay activities, and more in Market Square.
ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS AND KEY DETAILS
FESTIVAL HOURS
- 12 – 8 pm Sunday through Thursday
- 12 – 10 pm Friday and Saturday
GRAND OPENING/CEREMONIAL KEG TAPPING:
Oktoberfest begins with the official keg tapping ceremony, and Pittsburgh Mayor Corey O’Connor will be in attendance to help celebrate this time-honored tradition.
- When: Thursday, October 1, 2026, at noon
- Where: Main stage in Market Square
- Admission: Free and open to the public
FERRIS WHEEL SPONSORED BY RIVERLIFE AND COMCAST /KARNEVAL GAMES
Returning this year, the iconic Ferris wheel, sponsored by Riverlife and Comcast, is on 6th Street (Roberto Clemente) Bridge. The 60-ft wheel offers sweeping skyline views for a 10-minute ride starting at $7 per ticket ($5 during off-peak times). While on the bridge, festivalgoers can also enjoy Karneval-style games, family-friendly activities, and unique merchandise to commemorate the event. Reserve Ferris Wheel tickets here.
LAST CHANCE: Those who purchase before Oct. 1, will be entered into an early bird drawing for a chance to win a $250 Oktoberfest Pittsburgh prize package!
Karneval games include Pop A Shot, Clowning Around, Wiffle Ball Toss, High Strike, Bottle Toss, Oktoberfest Wheel, and Go Ham Go. Tickets to play can be purchased at the Karneval Ticket Booth, and prices will vary per game.
KINDERPLAY:
The Prostburgh experience isn’t only for adults; young “kinder” can get in on the Oktoberfest fun at the Kinderplay area. Kids of all ages can explore German Heritage-themed and Oktoberfest crafts, make-and-takes, and games, provided by the Children’s Museum. Admission is free and open to everyone, so bring the whole family and add a colorful, crafty twist to your Oktoberfest weekend.
AXE THROWING AND DEVIL’S WHEEL
Test your arm and aim with the festival favorite Axe Throwing or take a twirl on the Pittsburgh edition of the classic German favorite Devils Wheel’s ride also known as “Teufelsrad.” Get tickets for just $10 per activity.
STEIN HOLDING
Hosted by John and Rachael of the YaJagoff podcast, Stein Holding, also known as Masskrugstemmen, is a traditional Bavarian strength and endurance contest where competitors hold a full one-liter beer stein for as long as possible without bending the elbow or spilling any beer! The competitor who can hold their stein with proper form for the longest duration is hailed the winner. Sign up to compete: oktpgh.com/steinholding/
Schedule:
Saturday 10/3
2-2:30 PM, 6-6:30 PM, 8-8:30 PM
Sunday 10/4
2-2:30 PM, 6-6:30 PM
Saturday 10/10
2-2:30 PM, 6-6:30 PM, 8-8:30 PM
Sunday 10/11
2-2:30 PM, 6-6:30 PM
DACHSHUND RACES
Also hosted by John and Rachael of the YaJagoff podcast, Dachshund races have become a quirky and must-see Oktoberfest tradition, adding some four-legged fun to the festivities!
The Dachshund Races will include the number of participating dogs, and each require two human partners for each heat. The first partner will be placed at the starting line with the canine participant, who must be held with two hands until the race begins. The other partner will be located at the other end of the racetrack and will be responsible for catching the dog at the end of the race. The race will begin upon a countdown to go, at which time the starting line of humans will release their dogs to run to the other end of the track. The first dog across the finish line wins, and the top three fastest dogs will receive medals
Sign up your pup: https://downtownpittsburgh.com/oktpgh/dachshundracing/. Vet vaccination records are required for registration.
Schedule:
Saturday 10/3
4-4:30 PM
Sunday 10/4
4-4:30 PM
Saturday 10/10
4-4:30 PM
Sunday 10/11
4-4:30 PM
For more information, please visit www.oktpgh.com.
About Oktoberfest Pittsburgh
Oktoberfest Pittsburgh is a multi-day community event that offers a vibrant blend of Bavarian tradition and Steel City spirit honoring the rich cultural traditions of Oktoberfest while showcasing the best of Pittsburgh’s local talent and businesses.
Oktoberfest Pittsburgh is presented by the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership and Flyspace Productions.
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About the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership
The PDP is a dynamic, nonprofit organization comprised of business and community leaders, property owners, civic organizations, foundations, and residents who provide energy, vision, and advocacy for Downtown Pittsburgh. Working collaboratively with its partners, the PDP strives to create a positive Downtown experience for residents, workers, and visitors alike. The PDP’s strategic initiatives include clean and safe services, transportation, economic development, and advocacy. For more information, visit www.DowntownPittsburgh.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) at @downtownpitt.
About Flyspace Productions
Flyspace Productions is Pittsburgh’s one-stop shop for unforgettable events. Bringing the creative ideas, handling the planning, managing the talent, and running the show from start to finish, Flyspace is the force behind most of your favorite events in the region and creates shared experiences that bring people together. With a team of world-class producers, the largest fleet of Stageline units in the country, and a vast AV and event inventory expertly operated in-house, Flyspace makes big ideas happen. Learn more at flyspaceproductions.com.