La Mesa Oktoberfest 2026

La Mesa Oktoberfest returns to La Mesa Village October 2–4, bringing one of San Diego County’s longtime fall traditions back for another weekend of food, music, family activities and, of course, beer.

More than 100,000 people are expected to visit La Mesa Village throughout the three-day celebration, which brings together local businesses, artisans, schools, nonprofits, families and visitors from across the region.

This year’s festival offers plenty of fun for all. Three distinct biergartens will offer different experiences, from the energetic Hofbräuhaus Biergarten to the family-friendly Hop Haus on Palm and the Craft Bier & Seltzer Garden. The food lineup will also go beyond traditional Oktoberfest fare. While brats, schnitzel and pretzels will be part of the weekend, local vendors will also bring an international mix of flavors to the festival.

Families will find lots to do throughout the weekend as well. The Pumpkin Patch, presented with Oma’s Family Farm, will offer free mini pumpkins while supplies last, along with pumpkin decorating for kids. The Kids Area will also feature flower crown crafts, maypole dancing presented by Sparrow Academy and complimentary custom hat-making with Rad Hatter.

For those looking to shop locally, Artisan Alley on Allison Avenue will feature handmade goods, artisan jams, fresh sourdough, home décor and gifts, making it an early start to the holiday shopping season.

And yes, dogs are welcome, too. The festival’s dog-friendly area and competitions return this year at the Dackeldorf Dachshund Village, with new title sponsor Kahoots.

La Mesa Oktoberfest takes place Friday, October 2, through Sunday, October 4 in La Mesa Village. 

Admission is free, with Biergarten Passes available for $8 and VIP tickets starting at $15 for guests 21 and older and $10 for those under 21.

Festival hours are Friday from 4–10 PM, Saturday from 10 AM–10 PM and Sunday from noon–8 PM.

Giveaway ticket info: The winner will receive 2 Hofbräuhaus Biergarten VIP Passes. Each ticket includes 2 16oz biers, access to all 3 Biergartens, and a front-of-line entrance with a dedicated VIP entrance and bar.