Planning for Oktoberfest in Bethlehem? Get the full guide to SteelStacks' biergartens, contests and events, plus nearby Lehigh Valley celebrations.

by Lehigh Valley Style

Oktoberfest in Bethlehem is one of the most impressive fall celebrations in the area. Last year’s event was a smash, and this year promises to be just as successful. There are several attractions throughout the event, with a little something for everyone. Enjoy this Oktoberfest guide to help you navigate the event!

Oktoberfest at SteelStacks is the premier, best-known Oktoberfest celebration in the region and one of the highest-profile fall events in the Lehigh Valley. Oktoberfest in Bethlehem is presented by the Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) and comes at no cost to attendees. Enjoy a diverse array of brews, refreshments, music, local artisan vendors and various activities. Both the Arena and Biergarten schedules span two full weekends, October 2–4 and October 9–11. See the full arena and Biergarten schedules here.

The Oktoberfest Arena is home to many event happenings, including fun family-friendly attractions. Come and enjoy German food, live performances, and thematic dances. One of the biggest fan favorites is the dachshund races; this adorable event happens multiple times throughout the Oktoberfest calendar. Featured acts at the Arena include the Grammy Award-winning ARKAI, a bratwurst eating contest (not for the faint of heart!), the Steelworkers Polka Band, the winner of ABE Idol, Atlassian and Dragtoberfest. 

Slated for this year is the Pennsylvania State Steinholding Championship Finals, a traditional, strength-based event that is as entertaining as it is festive. The competition has both men’s and women’s categories. The victorious parties will win an official stein, top status in Pennsylvania and a trip to the 2026 Steinholding Nationals provided by the US Steinholding Association. 

Each Oktoberfest Biergarten features its own unique theme and entertainment. This year’s schedule includes the Hofbräu, Samuel Adams/Dogfish Head, Spaten and Yuengling Biergartens. Another fun-filled, brew-centric event is the Brewers’ Village at Oktoberfest at SteelStacks, where local and regional craft beers take center stage. New to Oktoberfest, the Fliplehem Flip Cup Tournament at SteelStacks will also be featured. 

For the more athletic Oktoberfest patrons, the Yuengling Oktoberfest 5K at SteelStacks will be featured alongside the event itself on the first Sunday of Oktoberfest. This is a spirited and rigorous component of the festivities, enjoyable for participants and spectators alike. All participants are treated to an official race t-shirt, a custom finisher medal for the first 1,000 registrants and a customized race bib if registered by September 12. Perhaps the best prize of all, each runner receives a 22-oz. mug of Yuengling Oktoberfest at the end of the race, with root beer available for those seeking a non-alcoholic post-race treat! 

Barktoberfest is a free, canine-inspired celebration at HangDog Brewing Co. featuring fun that’s sure to get tails wagging! Festivities include delicious food and beverages, live music and adoptable dogs from the Lehigh Valley Humane Society. 2026 details will be announced as the event nears, but we do know The Robbie Lawrence Band is on the schedule. 2025’s Barktoberfest, held in mid-October, involved a Dog Halloween Costume Contest, polka music and a variety of brews. For adventurers, HangDog Outdoor Adventure is onsite and available for thrill seekers attending Barktoberfest. Voted Best Outdoor Adventure Facility in Lehigh Valley Style’s Best of the Lehigh Valley 2026, it’s a must-see!

Easton Oktoberfest 2026 will light up Downtown Easton with fall spirit, including live music, a dance showcase and a drummer battle. Attendees can also enjoy live performances, a comedy show, food and drink vendors and other activities. The event is family-friendly, starting at noon on Sunday, October 11.

Bangor Octoberfest centers on celebrating local spirit with seasonal food and beverages. While 2026 festivities have yet to be announced other than the dates of October 17–18, the 2025 event included music, self-guided park tours and spooky train rides, along with fall-themed contests. While in town, there are other sights worth taking in. The Slate Belt Heritage Center is not involved directly in Octoberfest, but it hosts public events that pair well with Bangor’s large-scale fun fest. This includes the Passport to History Fall Weekend and the Haunted Heritage Program. Franklin Hill Vineyards is a great final stop for a season-themed beverage. 

This year marks the 14th annual Oktoberfest Mixer at Link Beverages, hosted in conjunction with the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce (learn more about the Chamber here). 2026 dates have yet to be announced, but the event is confirmed for the year. Advertisers and corporate partners for 2026 include Martin & Co., Muhlenberg College, and Lehigh Valley Health Network. 

Tickets for the 2025 event included samplings of food and drink from vendors including Fegley’s Brew Works, Diana’s Catering and Gourmet Market, Wind Hill Winery, Potts Hot Dogs, Southern Tier Brewing Company, Casa Toro, Red Robin and Birthright Brewing. Music was provided by Galena Brass, a local favorite for festive music. The event served as a networking and socialization opportunity for patrons to connect with local businesses and their neighbors.