Oktoberfest and Other Great Things to do in New Orleans this October

Most other months pale to compare to October when it comes to celebrating beer in New Orleans. One reason being that the heat is typically less oppressive, but between Halloween, Octoberfest, and the numerous exciting beers released to support it, beer lovers can collectively prost.

The survival (and alcoholism) of early New Orleanians is largely thanks to German settlers that taught us to farm, and, more importantly, brew. That’s why it should come as no surprise that we’ve found reason to cheers over a beloved German tradition here in New Orleans: Oktoberfest.

Not so into beer? There are also a lot of other great no-drinking-necessary activities left in the month worth visiting.

Things to do in New Orleans this October

Coming in hot about three weeks late (more on that soon), but here’s the short and sweet on what you can’t miss the rest of this month.

Oktoberfest

Several Weekends in October

Here’s a picture of me at real Oktoberfest a few weeks ago!

Deustches Haus puts on a fantastic event every year for Oktoberfest that includes live music, games, and of course German beer and food. Go to experience a glimpse of traditional German culture including activities like stein holding contests (AKA Masskrugstemmen) as well as other fun activities like a, wait for it…. a Dachshund race.

Miel Brewery and Taproom 

Miel brewery might be the thing I’m most excited about this October. With a great indoor and outdoor space that’s perfect for our newly-acquired and quickly fleeting fall weather, Miel has a selection of tasty beers, including the German inspired Hellaweizen. I’m really excited catch a game (and beer) or two there with their nifty projector set up and watch this new brewery succeed.

Urban South

While I’ve never left Urban South disappointed, they’ve stepping up Oktoberfest to a whole new level. With an absurd number of new Oktoberfest-inspired releases, including “Ja, Bitte”, “Ja, Bitte Raspberry”, and, of course, “Oktoberfest”, as well as Oktoberfest-inspired glass steins, and decorations you’re in for a serious treat. Check their Facebook for a bunch of other fun events they have this October. 

Krewe of Boo

October 20

This wonderful mashup of two of my favorite holidays is everything I want for October. Krewe of Boo comes around the time when you’re forgetting the gross hangovers and frustrations of real Mardi Gras, and missing the recurring and frequent opportunities to elbow drunken strangers in the face for cheap, Chinese goodies. Don’t miss this Halloween themed parade to kick the season into full swing.

Mac n Cheese Fest

October 20

I don’t really think this needs any further explanation, but here it goes: do you like cheese, beer, and good weather? Mac n Cheese Fest.

Voodoo Festival

October 26

Obviously, the biggest thing this October after actual Halloween is Voodoo. With headliners like Childish Gambino, Arctic Monkeys, Mumford & Sons, Odesza, and Modest Mouse, there’s no better opportunity to don your Halloween costume.