Guests filled the ArtsQuest Campus at SteelStacks to enjoy a lively celebration of all things German for the 15th annual Oktoberfest presented by Lehigh Valley International Airport. From brats and brews to live music and local artisans, fan-favorite activities, including the dachshund races and steinholding competitions, kept the energy high, while classic Oktoberfest traditions created a festive atmosphere that brought the community together in true Bavarian spirit.

“We are thrilled with the festive energy, live music and delicious flavors that made this year’s Oktoberfest a success,” said Thomas R. Stoudt, Executive Director, ABE. “Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) proudly supports ArtsQuest initiatives that celebrate our Lehigh Valley community through free events and cultural entertainment.”

The 15th annual Oktoberfest welcomed approximately 48,500 attendees and 197 volunteers during the two-weekend festival. Patrons of all ages enjoyed the traditional German folk, four biergartens with 38 varieties of lagers, ales, IPAs and more for the 21+ crowd to enjoy in their mugs, competing in games like Kong Pong presented by D.G. Yuengling & Son, the first ever Fliplehem: Oktoberfest Flip Cup Competition presented by D.G. Yuengling & Son and the Karl Ehmer Bratwurst Eating Competition, listening to live traditional and rock music and more.

“We are thrilled to see the community come together once again to celebrate Oktoberfest at SteelStacks,” said Kassie Hilgert, ArtsQuest President and CEO. “The energy and enthusiasm from attendees of all ages was incredible. This festival is a true testament to the Lehigh Valley’s love of tradition, fun and great food and drink, and we’re so grateful to everyone who joined us to make the 15th annual Oktoberfest presented by Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) a most memorable fall celebration.”

Competition

results

The stands at the Wiener dog races and parade were filled to capacity and with a big-screen TV located outside the arena, everyone had an opportunity to watch the action! There were 10 races and over 160 puppy participants over the two Oktoberfest weekends. The parades saw hundreds of pups dressed in lederhosen and dirndl and were even joined by three kitty participants (the first ever) for the last Sunday of the festival!

The Bratwurst Eating Competition welcomed eight competitors who ate as many brats as they could, but it was Rob M. who won with 10 bratwursts in 3 minutes and 15 seconds!

There were 1,219 participants at this year’s Yuengling Oktoberfest 5k in partnership with Run Lehigh Valley; Fliplehem welcomed 10 teams; Kong Pong welcomed 16 teams; the Oktoberfest Pretzel Toss welcomed over 10 pairs of competitors and 23 individuals competed in the Pennsylvania State Stein Hoisting Championship in partnership with the U.S. Stein Hoisting Association.

Pennsylvania State Stein Hoisting presented by Samuel Adams winners are:

Women’s Competition: Jill Matthews – 5:57

Men’s Competition: Jim Thompson – 14:07

Food and Fun

Festivalgoers enjoyed live performances from 58 bands and 28 Schuhplattler/dance performances during both Oktoberfest weekends. Fan favorites included Polkadelphia, The Wonton Soups, Chasing Stars, Dylan Zangwill Band, Rock Steady, Melody Cruz and The Keystones.

Aside from Karl Ehmer Quality Meats (crowd favorite), MMG Concessions, Heaven on a Bun, Food Stuff, Heidi’s Strudel, Bacon on a Stick, Take a Taco, Grumpy’s BBQ Roadhouse, Slide on By, Island Expressions and Dinky’s Ice Cream kept everyone well fed in between all the festivities and competitions.

Brewers’ Village presented by Lehigh Valley Brewers Guild returned for its ninth year with some of Pennsylvania’s award-winning craft breweries taking center stage. Fabulous tasting opportunities were also available at the second Yuengling Beer Dinner, with a four-course tasting menu with 6 oz. pours of four different Yuengling beers.

“We are proud to celebrate the 15th anniversary of our Oktoberfest - a milestone that honored both tradition and community,” said Eric Bauder, ArtsQuest Director of Event Operations. “This year’s event introduced new programming that added fresh experiences to the festival, while continuing to reflect the spirit that has made it so meaningful over the years. We are deeply grateful to everyone who joined us and helped make this celebration a memorable one.”

Contributed article