15,000 expected at Walnut Creek Oktoberfest's Sept. 25-26 return

More than 15,000 people are expected to fill Civic Park East when Walnut Creek Oktoberfest returns for two days of German beer, live music and family activities on Sept. 25 and 26.

Admission is free, though organizers are asking attendees to RSVP in advance through Eventbrite. The festival runs 5 to 10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25, and noon to 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26.

The Walnut Creek Downtown Association, which produces the event through its nonprofit partner the Community Partnership for Walnut Creek Downtown, announced the lineup in an Aug. 20 press release. Bay Area Telegraph published additional details Aug. 25.

New this year: the Chillgarten

One headline addition is an expanded Chillgarten, a 21-and-over lounge with its own dedicated bar, specialty cocktails and space to relax away from the festival's busiest areas. Last year's edition featured a smaller "Chill Zone Speakeasy" with DJ sets; the 2026 version adds a dedicated bar and specialty cocktails.

"From the reimagined Chillgarten to the lively music and family traditions, Oktoberfest makes you want to stick around for a while, raise a stein, and enjoy the fun," executive director Kathy Hemmenway said in the release.

German beers and local craft brews will be served at multiple beer tents and in the Biergarten near the main stage. Drink packages start at $12. Anyone purchasing alcohol must show ID and obtain a wristband.

Entertainment lineup

Performers announced so far include the Nature Friends Schuhplattler Dancers, BlowMusik and Deutscher Musik Verein San Francisco for traditional German entertainment, plus local bands Mad Apple, The Ripplers and the Dive Bombers. Live acts will play on multiple stages both days.

Stein-holding, yodeling and costume contests are scheduled Friday and Saturday. Individual performance times had not been posted as of Aug. 25; Walnut Creek Downtown says the full schedule is coming soon.

Kids, dogs and food

The Kinder Karneval children's zone returns with giant slides, inflatable games, train rides, mini-golf, face painting and balloon art. Children need a Kids Zone pass, sold onsite and valid both days. Adults do not need a pass to enter or accompany a child on the train.

A community stage nearby will feature local school acts, story times, a magician and a children's costume contest.

Dozens of artisan and food vendors will be spread throughout the park, offering German-inspired dishes and Bay Area favorites. Leashed dogs are welcome and will have their own Bark Lounge with treats and pet vendors.

Getting there

The main entrance is at 1375 Civic Drive, across the bridge from the Civic Park parking lot. A second entrance is at 1761 Carmel Drive. Event parking costs $10 at the Mechanics Bank lot at 1111 Civic Drive (entrance off Arroyo Way), opening 30 minutes before the festival.

Civic Park is less than a 10-minute walk from the Walnut Creek BART station; organizers encourage public transit. A free bicycle valet will be available near the park's Iron Horse Trail entrance.

Festival ticket booths are cashless, accepting credit cards, debit cards and Apple Pay. Outside food and alcohol are prohibited, and the park is smoke-free. Bring a lawn chair or blanket for stage viewing.