PA's German Roots: Oktoberfest at Lancaster Liederkranz

Picture this: You step under a giant tent, the air filled with the smell of sizzling bratwurst and fresh-baked pretzels. Lively German folk music plays as people in lederhosen and dirndls dance and sing. Laughter mixes with the clinking of steins as you sip a cold, frothy beer. Welcome to Oktoberfest at Lancaster Liederkranz in Manheim, Pennsylvania! It’s Lancaster’s oldest traditional Oktoberfest, and it’s a fantastic celebration of all things German—food, drink, music, and dancing.

Oktoberfest at Lancaster Liederkranz is held every year in mid-September. This year's three-day event is slated for September 20-22. Best of all, you're just 9 miles from all the festivities when you stay with us at B.F. Hiestand House.

For over 140 years, the Lancaster Liederkranz has been keeping Pennsylvania's German heritage alive in our community. The club, which started in the 1880s as a singing group for German immigrants, continues to honor its roots. While it's usually a private membership club, this Oktoberfest is open to the public, giving everyone a chance to experience the rich traditions of Germany.

You'll be stepping into a little slice of Bavaria under the pavilion and big tents at this family-friendly event. Don’t be surprised if you see folks dressed in traditional garb like lederhosen, dirndls, and Bavarian hats—it’s all part of the fun. This Oktoberfest is the real deal, celebrating a centuries-old tradition rooted in Bavarian history and culture.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Oktoberfest without amazing food and drink! Indulge in bratwurst, weisswurst, kielbasa, pork schnitzel, and the fan-favorite potato pancakes. These crispy delights are like no other—you won’t find any quite like them outside of Germany. And don’t forget the sauerkraut, red cabbage, and giant soft pretzels to round out your meal.

Wash it all down with a stein of authentic German beer, featuring selections from Weihenstephan and Hofbräu, two of Germany's oldest breweries. You can even compete in a Masskrugstemmen — a beer stein holding competition at the club's Maypole. For those who prefer something a bit stronger, schnapps of many flavors will be on hand to keep the party going.

Throughout the weekend, you’ll be treated to musical entertainment that sets the perfect mood for dancing and singing along. The Alpenrose Schuhplattler Verein, a local dance group, will perform traditional German and Austrian folk dances, bringing the culture to life before your eyes. The music and dances—many passed down through generations—are sure to get your toes tapping.

Whether you're of German descent or just looking for a good time, Lancaster Liederkranz's Oktoberfest is the perfect way to celebrate the start of fall. It’s a fun, festive way to experience the German heritage that runs deep in Lancaster County.