Where to Celebrate Oktoberfest in the U.S., Because Flying Is Expensive

Lizzy Rosenberg - Author
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Sep. 24 2019, Updated 2:44 p.m. ET

Anyone who's over the age of 21 with an affinity for beer and an undying appreciation for carbohydrates has dreamed of venturing to Munich, Germany at the end of September to celebrate Oktoberfest in all its glory. 

And while experiencing the real deal would be a literal dream come true, flying to Europe is expensive as heck. So here's where to celebrate Oktoberfest in the U.S. if you want a little taste of the German holiday without spending too much.

Fun places to celebrate Oktoberfest in the U.S.:

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1. Helen's Oktoberfest in Helen, Ga.

Helen, Ga. has been home to one of the South's biggest Oktoberfest celebrations for well over 50 years, according to the Explore Georgia website. It lasts several weeks from September through October, and includes dancing, tons of food, and obviously, beer. 

Lederhosen is required, and yes, it is the same celebration they went to in that one episode of Atlanta.

2. Tulsa Oktoberfest in Tulsa, Okla.

From Oct. 17 to Oct. 20, Tulsa's River West Festival Park is transformed into a Bavarian paradise.

If you find yourself in that neck of the woods during the dates above, prepare for a lineup of German bands, Bavarian treats, art vendors, and competitions, according to the festival's website. It definitely looks like a good time.

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3. Hofbrauhaus Las Vegas in Las Vegas, Nev.

You thought Las Vegas couldn't get any wilder? Think again. From mid-September until the end of October, Hofbrauhaus in Las Vegas is celebrating big time with authentic German beers, a celebrity keg tapping (peep Pamela Anderson above!), and — of course — lots of dancing, per the website. 

Make your free reservation on the beer hall's website ahead of time, though — this celebration in particular is mega popular, and they only have so much space.

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4. Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest in Big Bear Lake, Calif.

Those living in Northern California can experience the scenic Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest which takes place in the gorgeous San Bernardino mountains every weekend from Sept. 7 through Nov. 2, according to the festival's website.

With an abundance of beer, brats, and bands, there's no way you won't have a good time. Check out what you can expect to see in the video, above.

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5. Munich On The East River in New York, N.Y.

Zum Schneider in New York, N.Y. throws a gigantic Oktoberfest celebration called Munich On The East River during the weekends of Sept. 27 and Oct. 4.

In a fully decorated Oktoberfest tent, you'll be able to drink a variety of authentic beers, eat an abundance of foods, listen to live music, browse vendor stands, and play a variety of games, according to the festival's website. If you're anywhere near the Big Apple, I strongly suggest stopping by.

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6. Das Beste in La Crosse, Wis.

As one of the longest-running Oktoberfest celebrations in the Midwest, Das Beste lasts from Sept. 26 to Sept. 29. Chill in the biergarten or attend one of the seriously epic parades.

As usual, a dirndl or lederhosen is basically required, so prepare to raise your stein for a really wild time.

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7. Nashville Oktoberfest in Nashville, Tenn.

Celebrate Oktoberfest in one of the most fun U.S. cities from Thursday, Oct. 10 to Sunday, Oct. 13. According to the festival website, Nashville Oktoberfest spans 10 city blocks with German food, crafts vendors, live music, and a Dachshund Derby, if you're looking to sweat it out.

The music is definitely bound to be a highlight (I mean, really — you're in Nashville!) so get ready for a full day of dancing.

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8. Leavenworth Oktoberfest in Leavenworth, Wash.

For the first three weekends in October, you can party it up in Leavenworth, Wash. Oktoberfest-style. With four venues — each with live entertainment, food, and beer — it brings major family fun to the Pacific Northwest, according to the website.

Oh, and don't miss out on the Keg Tapping Ceremony every Saturday at 1 p.m. — apparently, it's a major highlight.

Regardless of where you are, I'm sure finding an Oktoberfest celebration this fall won't be hard. As they say in Germany, "prost!"

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