FYI: You don’t have to go all the way to Bavaria to experience a great Oktoberfest. In Westchester County, plenty of towns, public groups, and even individual businesses are getting their lederhosen on in October. Here are some of our top picks in case you feel like grabbing your stein and joining in on the local fun.
Oktoberfest makes its way over to the Cross County Center this season. The festivities will be held on The Green in the center of the mall on Saturday from 1-7 p.m. and Sunday from 1-5 p.m. The beer garden will be stocked with local beers from Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, and grilled brats and pretzels will be available for snacking.
When: Saturday, September 16, 1- 7 p.m. & Sunday, September 17, 1-5 p.m.
Where: Cross County Center, Yonkers
Cost: Free to enter
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Bedford’s eight annual “Oktoberfest with a twist” returns in 2023 with seasonal beers from Captain Lawrence as well as wine, bourbon, tastings, music, pub games, food trucks, fire pits, and loads more on the Village Green. Plus, all proceeds benefit the Bedford Historical Society’s Properties Preservation Fund so, really, you’re drinking to help support educational initiatives. That’s civic volunteerism if ever we heard it.
When: Saturday, September 30, 6:30-10 p.m.
Where: Bedford Village Green, Bedford
Cost: Starting at $150 — Does not include food trucks
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More frequented in October for its spooky history, the Village of Sleepy Hollow also has an annual Oktoberfest celebration. Classic German food and drink will flow, Bavarian music will sound, and younger kids can enjoy their time drinking hot chocolate.
When: Saturday, September 30, 1-5 p.m.
Where: Kingsland Point Park, 299 Palmer Ave, Sleepy Hollow
Cost: Free to enter; Parking: $5
Growler’s Beer Bistro in Tuckahoe will host its October celebration on October 7. It will serve up traditional German food (even more than it normally does) alongside fun and games, live music and entertainment, and—again—plenty of beer. If you’re familiar with Growler’s, you can imagine how delighted your bellies will be, and, if not, then you really do need to come down this year!
When: Saturday, October 7, 12 p.m.
Where: 25 Main St, Tuckahoe
Cost: Free to enter
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Croton-on-Hudson’s third annual Oktoberfest returns to the Upper Village this year. There will be live music, over 60 artisanal food and art vendors, craft beer, wine, cider, and kids activities for the little ones.
When: Saturday, October 7, 12- 6 p.m.
Where: Upper Village, Croton-on-Hudson
Cost: Free to enter
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The Pound Ridge Partnership’s 11th annual fall fest is back for another year of food, drinks, live music, and family fun. Local eateries and vendors will have plenty on offer, and the drinks will flow freely: craft beer for the adults and a “root beer garden” for the kids. The musical headliner for the day is Galactic.
When: Saturday, October 7, 1-6 p.m.
Where: Pound Ridge Town Park
Cost: Free entry
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This 11-year tradition makes its return to the streets of downtown White Plains. Join thousands of locals and visitors decked out in lederhosen and dirndls, sip German beer, and munch on German food. Walter’s Hot Dogs will provide seasonal food to the crowd. The band Melina & the Oompahs will be performing traditional German Oompah hits from all decades. The lead singer, Melina, grew up in Germany and now resides in NYC.
When: Sunday, October 8, 1- 6 p.m.
Where: Mamaroneck Ave, between East Post Rd., and Maple Ave., White Plains
Cost: Limited advance tickets are $11, day-of tickets will be available for $15
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