Oktoberfest in Tulsa is kind of a big deal. Named USA TODAY’s #1 Oktoberfest in the country for the third year in a row, Zeeco Oktoberfest brings authentic Bavarian food, German beer, live music, and plenty of fall fun to River West Festival Park. The festival runs October 22–25, with Corporate Night kicking things off on October 21. Whether you're planning a work outing, a daytime adventure, or a night out with friends, here's what to know before you go.
1. Go Big on Corporate Night
Wednesday, October 21 | 3–11 pm
Corporate Night is all about company outings, networking, live music, and a packed dance floor. It's a Tulsa tradition for local businesses looking to celebrate with employees and clients. Corporate tables include admission for 30 guests, a reserved table, commemorative steins, and shuttle-serviced parking. Check the Corporate Night page for details.
2. Enjoy a Daytime Festival
Friday, October 23 | Free admission from 11 am–4 pm
Want to experience Oktoberfest without committing to a late night? Head over during the day to explore the beer tents, grab some German food, check out the carnival, and catch live entertainment. Friday's Family Free Day makes it a great option for families and first-timers looking to explore.
3. Stay for the Nightlife
Thursday, October 22 | 4–11 pm
Friday and Saturday, October 23–24 | Until 1 am
Saturday night is a great pick for a full evening out with friends. Expect lively beer tents, live music, dancing, and plenty of festival energy. Prefer something a little more laid-back? Sunday runs 11 am–6 pm and features the beloved Dachshund Dash.
4. Find Your Favorite Bier Tent
The tents are the heart of Oktoberfest, and each has its own atmosphere, entertainment, and beer selection. Der Lufthansa Technik BierGarten is the place to catch major performances and explore a huge selection of biers, while Marshall Brewing Stammtisch is a great stop for local beer and sports. Wander through a few tents to find your favorite, and check the tent guide to plan your route.
5. Skip the Parking Stress
Here's the biggest thing to know: there's no general public parking at the festival grounds. Instead, Oktoberfest offers free shuttles from several locations, including downtown, the Blue Dome District, and OSU Greenwood. Limited parking near the festival is available for $20 per car at the old skate park on West 23rd Street, but that lot is unavailable Thursday night.
Rideshare is another option, with designated pickup and drop-off access near the festival. You can also bike and use the free Spoke House Bike Corral. Check the parking and shuttle guide before you leave to find the best route.
6. Look out for Pennies
Here's an insider tip you might hear from Oktoberfest regulars: keep your drink covered when you're not sipping! There's a local festival tradition of people tossing pennies into unattended steins. Keep a hand over your drink between sips to avoid any unwanted surprises.
7. Bring a Card and Save Your Stein
From bratwurst and giant pretzels to German biers and local favorites, there's plenty to try throughout the festival. Just remember that food and drink vendors accept credit cards, and cash isn't accepted at designated food and drink locations.
Buying a commemorative stein? Hang on to it! It's a fun souvenir from the festival, and you can bring it back next year. Check the beer and tent guide for current stein and refill details before your visit.
8. Make a Plan for the Ride Home
If you're staying for the evening festivities, figure out your ride before you arrive. Check shuttle schedules for your chosen parking location, or plan for a designated driver or rideshare. A little planning means more time enjoying the festival and less time figuring out how to get home.
Oktoberfest is one of those Tulsa traditions that makes fall feel like fall. Grab your coworkers, round up your friends, or bring the family for an afternoon of German food, live music, and festive fun. Check the Oktoberfest website for tickets, schedules, and the latest details before you go.