4 Places to Celebrate Oktoberfest Near New Orleans

New Orleans may be known for the French Quarter, but every October, a resounding German influence sneaks in as Oktoberfest celebrations tempt residents with great food and beer. Whether you're a dedicated fan of German beer or just enjoy authentic German food and music, here are some great places to celebrate in the New Orleans area.

1. Oktoberfest at Deutsches Haus    
1023 Ridgewood Dr, Metairie

Presented by Deutsches Haus, this lively festival takes place over three weekends: October 7-8, October 14-15, and October 21-22. Each day brings a different meal, along with new and exciting bands playing German music. Dinner is served daily for $14, with daily specials including stuffed cabbage rolls, jagerschnitzel, German meatloaf, and kassler ripchen (smoked pork chops). Don't miss the Ceremonial Keg Tapping on October 7 or the Dachshund Dash, a race between 60-plus wiener dogs, on October 22.

2. Oktoberfest in Gretna    
Downtown Gretna

Take a drive to nearby Gretna for this traditional, family-friendly street festival along the riverfront. Held October 14 and 15, it offers a little something for everyone, from German beer to a farmer's market. There will be live music and plenty of brats to go around, plus a German cooking demonstration by Guest Chef Chris Watson on Saturday at 10 a.m. The city of Gretna will also be holding their community yard sale that weekend, so you never know what deals you might find!

3. OktoberFeast in Mandeville
Downtown Mandeville

This five-day festival emphasizes the "feasting" aspect of Oktoberfest. Oktoberfest takes over the city of Mandeville from September 30 through October 4, with various events taking place throughout the downtown area. Food is provided by Opal Basil Restaurant, and there are plenty of wine and beer pairings to go around. Various restaurants, including The Lakehouse, Bourre, and Bosco's, will offer special tasting menus with reservations. On Friday night, A Grand Tasting will be held at the Mandeville Trailhead at a cost of $40 per person, and on Saturday night, The George French Band will perform at 6 p.m.

4. St. Tammany Parish Fair
1304 N Columbia St, Covington

This family-friendly celebration of agriculture and harvest is open through Monday, October 3. Kids will love the midway rides and games, and guests of all ages will learn a lot from the agricultural exhibits, which include livestock such as cattle and sheep. On Friday, September 30 and Saturday, October 1st, a Rodeo will take place, with tickets priced at $12 for adults and $10 for children ages 10 and under. You won't leave hungry, either, since food selections include fair staples like corn dogs as well as German favorites like sausage and pretzels.

Have you attended any of these festivals in the past? Feel free to share your experiences with our Springs at River Chase and Springs at Fremaux Town Center residents!