September 25 & 26, 2026

the district at prairie Trail • Ankeny
TICKETS ON SALE SOON!

Two Days. One Big Prost.

prost! And welcome.

Celebrate Oktoberfest traditions in true German style at Des Moines’ Original 23rd Annual Oktoberfest at The District at Prairie Trail in Ankeny on Sept. 25 & 26, 2026.

TICKETS ON SALE SOON.

Yes, there’s lotS of beer. plus so much more.

Tapping of the Golden Keg

Raise a glass and help us kick off Oktoberfest with the ceremonial Tapping of the Golden Keg. Once the first pour is flowing, the celebration is officially underway.

Beer

We’ll have 50+ different beers for you to try.

Food

Bratwurst, schnitzel, pork, oh my! Give all the traditional German dishes a try.

Pretzel Necklaces

Create a snack you can wear. String together your own pretzel necklace to enjoy while you explore the festival.

ROCKTOBERFEST

When the sun goes down, Oktoberfest turns up. Stick around for Rocktoberfest and end the night with high-energy live music and a packed dance floor.

Music

Polkas over here, German drinking songs over there. Festive live music will accompany you all weekend.

Stein Holding (Masskrugstemmen) Contest

Think you have what it takes to outlast the competition? Test your strength and endurance by holding a full stein at arm’s length for as long as possible.

Bier Maiden Competition

Oktoberfest’s Bier Maidens take center stage in this lively competition filled with Bavarian spirit, personality and plenty of crowd participation.

Shotski Record

Grab your friends and help us make Oktoberfest history. Join the crowd as we attempt another record-breaking communal shotski.

Hair styling

Complete your Oktoberfest look with a festive hairstyle. Stop by for braids and other fun styles perfect for a full day of celebrating.

Koenigschlagen

Try your hand at this traditional German hammer-and-nail game. The goal is simple: be the first to drive your nail all the way into the stump.

Cornhole — Mais Loch

Challenge your friends to a round of Mais Loch, our Oktoberfest-inspired take on cornhole. Toss a few bags, enjoy a drink and see who comes out on top.