Three Cheers for Oktoberfest Muskoka 2023
Oktoberfest has become a global phenomenon celebrated the world over, including right here in Muskoka. So, dust off your dirndl, layer up your lederhosen, and get into the Oktoberfest spirit!
The origins of this beloved folk festival date back more than 200 years. In 1810, when Bavaria’s Crown Prince Ludwig, who later became King Ludwig I, married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen, the citizens of Munich gathered together to celebrate the royal union. It was such a success that it became an annual event and eventually evolved to include various amusements and beer tents. Today, Oktoberfest attracts millions of visitors to Munich, and is replicated across the globe.
Oktoberfest Muskoka, 2023 edition, promises an unforgettable experience that honours the spirit of the original Bavarian festival at locations across the region.
Prost!
Help us kick off the fun at the Tapping of the Keg Kickoff Bash! Head to Sawdust City Brewing Co. on Wednesday, October 18 from 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. for live music from The Happy Wanderers, and partake in a toast with the mayors of Muskoka as we open the festivities with a tapping of the keg. Raise your stein and get ready to shout, “Prost!” (Cheers!)
Then, starting on Friday, October 20, take a tour around Muskoka to participating local eateries and breweries for their take on some Oktoberfest classics like schnitzel, goulash, spaetzle, bratwurst, and more! Top it off with a strudel or black forest cake for dessert, and chase it all down with some specialty brews made just for the occasion! The excitement continues all weekend long.
Take a turn on the dance floor
Oktoberfest wouldn’t be complete without live music — there’s even sure to be a chicken dance or two. Yes, that chicken dance — an Oktoberfest tradition! Look for local musicians like James Gray and Christina Hutt, as well as Oktoberfest entertainers Heiner de Wilde Kaiser from Germany and Mr. D and the Polka Kings.
Huntsville takes centre stage
Did you know that bowling is an Oktoberfest tradition? After that first, auspicious event way back in 1810, a variety of activities were added to the slate of amusements, including bowling! Head to Huntsville Bowl for a new Oktoberfest Muskoka signature event that includes complimentary bowling, Oktoberfest-themed food and drink specials, and live music on both Friday and Saturday night. Gather your friends and family for a fun-filled night of strikes, spares, and laughter.
Elsewhere in Huntsville, indulge in traditional Bavarian fare — with a Muskoka spin — at local restaurants, including a delectable black forest cake handmade at Affogato Muskoka; a beer garden, cooking demos and more at Deerhurst Resort; sausage on a bun at Moose Delaney’s; a breaded pork chop with locally inspired chutney and house-made spätzle at Tall Trees; and homemade butternut squash ravioli at That Little Place by the Lights. Yum!
Win a weekend away
Do you love to win? You know you do! Oktoberfest Muskoka has teamed up with Deerhurst Resort for a special Oktoberfest giveaway — enter to win a two-night stay at Deerhurst, where you can enjoy a range of activities, great food, and gorgeous views! Contest ends October 22, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. EDT. Find full details at oktoberfestmuskoka.ca/contest.
Show us your best from Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is full of Insta-worthy fun. Snap some selfies, gather round for a group cheer in front of the lens, or capture the essence of the event with your camera and share your best shots to your Instagram feed using #MOKT23 — we love to share! Remember to tag and follow us @oktoberfestmuskoka, too.
Ready to create some lasting memories? Get the full Oktoberfest Muskoka 2023 schedule and more at oktoberfestmuskoka.ca.
Make the most of your trip to Huntsville and Lake of Bays and check out these great accommodations nearby.