Mountaintop Oktoberfest

Dating back to its 1810 origin in Munich Germany, it is time to raise a stein for Mohonk’s Mountaintop Oktoberfest! Beginning with our Tapping Ceremony and Cannon Commencement, this weekend of funfair puts forth a full display of German culture. Showcasing the best brews, wines, ciders, and spirits of the Hudson Valley and beyond, the mountaintop will ring with polka music, taste of German cuisine, and invite you into the heart of celebration.

Schedule Of Events:

10am – 11:15am - Beginners Polka Dance Class
An Octoberfest would not be complete without polka, one of America’s most popular dances! It is a simple dance that anyone can learn – be prepared to have fun.  Instructors Candace Woodard-Clough and Gene Eagle will show you both the cardio and non-cardio versions.

12pm – 3pm - Mountaintop Oktoberfest Buffet and Beer Hall
Polka your way up to the Pavilion for a fanfare mountaintop celebration! Indulge in a grand buffet showcasing authentic German cuisine, beers, and liquors, complimented by artisan works from Hudson Valley purveyors. Raise a stein and join the toasts led by Yard Owl Brewery’s head brewmaster, James Walsh, while the Street Beat Brass Band surrounds you in their “beer barrel polka” style. Prost to a celebration of culinary delights, refreshing libations, and spirited music amidst the backdrop of Lake Mohonk!

3pm - From Beer Halls to Bratwurst: Unraveling the History of Oktoberfest
Jump into the rich tapestry of one of the world’s most celebrated festivals. Trace the origins of Oktoberfest from its humble beginnings as a royal wedding celebration in 1810 to its modern-day status as a global extravaganza of Bavarian culture, beer, and culinary delights.

5:30pm – 8:30pm - Dinner Special: Veal and Pork Dumplings
With a wide variety of German dumplings, tonight’s selection includes veal and pork dumplings made in a mushroom cream sauce.

8:30pm – 10pm - Liquor and German Beer Bar
Our Beverage Team has you covered for this evening’s festivities with liquor and several German beers for purchase.

8:30pm – 9pm - Pre-Show Polka Pointers
Did you miss this morning’s class or need a refresher? Join us before the show for a crash course in polka dancing! Learn the lively steps that will have you dancing through tonight with ease. No experience needed – just bring your enthusiasm!

9pm - Polkadelphia
Get ready to groove and parade with Polkadelphia, the oompah band that burst onto the scene in 2013 when a tuba, trombone, trumpet, and accordion stumbled into a Philly bar, craving a jolt of excitement in the polka world. With members plucked from top-notch Philly groups like the Violent Femmes and West Philadelphia Orchestra, they’re anything but your average oompah band. Join them for a lively journey through traditional German and Polish tunes on the Mohonk Mountain “Haus” dance floor, where you’ll never miss a beat!