Prost Zum Hund – Oktoberfest for Pups!
Dog-Friendly Oktoberfest Spots Sure to Deliver Good Cheer...and Plenty of Food and Beer
Image Caption: Image Courtesy of Getty
Oktoberfest is an annual festival in Munich, Germany, that is held over a two-week period and ends on the first Sunday in October. The origin of Oktoberfest dates back to October 12, 1810, in celebration of the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.
Everyone knows that there are plenty of food and beer at Oktoberfest celebrations around the world. But there is also traditional Bavarian music and parades. If you love to take your dog everywhere you go, we understand. We chose the RV lifestyle in order to spend as much time as possible with our dogs. So if you love Oktoberfest, and you love your dog, look for one of the many dog-friendly Oktoberfest destinations in the US. You won’t even need a passport (or a pawsport)! Prost!
Image Courtesy of Bowser Beer
Helen, Georgia
You will not believe that you are in the state of Georgia when you visit Alpine Helen. Helen’s Oktoberfest celebrations have been happening for more than 50 years. There are weeks of dancing, food, and beer from the months of September to November. You will see people and their dogs dressed up in Bavarian attire, enjoying the festivities.
Helen is a very dog-friendly town all year round, and as long as your dog does not go in the Festhalle (festival hall) and stays in the outdoor areas, she is welcome to attend. There are also numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and state parks nearby to enjoy a break from the action.
Denver, Colorado
One of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in Colorado, Denver has hosted this event since 1969. There is even an annual Long Dog Derby where the question of “Who is the fastest dachshund” is answered. There are bands, food, and even a stein-holding contest. Dogs are welcome any day of the event, and there are numerous other dog-friendly activities in Denver to make for a full weekend of fun.
Image Courtesy of Getty
La Mesa, California
La Mesa brings the best of Germany to the Pacific Coast for Oktoberfest. Located in San Diego County, this event hosts dog activities like a dog fashion show, trick contest, and, of course, a wiener-dog race. There are more than 50 vendors on-site so that you and your dog can pick your favorite snack. Does your dog like to yodel? Let her pawticipate in the Howl-deling dog-yodeling contest!
Mount Angel, Oregon
The beautiful and quaint town of Mount Angel feels like a trip to a Bavarian town. Head to Oktoberfest with your dog to the official Mount Angel Oktoberfest & Wiener Dog Races.
According to the official venue website, “Pets are certainly welcome at Oktoberfest. Pets are allowed on leash. However, they are not permitted in the Venues. Kindergarten, Car Show, Downtown, Bandstand areas are dog friendly. If crowds make your furry friend nervous—we suggest Friday mornings.”
Tampa, Florida
Every year, thousands of people head to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in Tampa, Florida, to take part in Oktoberfest. Dogs are welcome, and the setting is picturesque along the river. If you and your dog want to take a break from the festivities, head for a swim at nearby Davis Island Dog Beach. There is even free watermelon for kids and dogs!
Image Courtesy of Rachael Johnson
Cullman, Alabama
The Cullman Oktoberfest is an annual celebration of Cullman, Alabama’s German heritage. Dogs are invited to ride in a wagon with their owners, tour the biergarten with you, and enjoy traditional German music in a fun atmosphere. The main event is the Wiener Dog Race!
Take Precautions with Your Dog
Due to the abundance of beer and alcohol at most Oktoberfest celebrations, watch your dog at all times. NEVER let your dog drink beer, wine, or any alcohol. Others may be having so much fun that they don’t watch their actions and may step on your dog. In order to supervise our dogs as well as possible, it may be necessary to appoint a designated, sober dog watcher. Do not let others feed drinks or food to your dog. Take breaks, bring plenty of drinking water, and have fun!
Barktoberfest
Barktoberfest celebrations are also held during the same time as Oktoberfest. Animal rescues and shelters have some fun by spinning Oktoberfest celebrations to adoption events. Support your local animal rescue or shelter during this time by attending or sharing on social media.
Our dogs love to be included in all of our travel activities, and they also love being around people. When they are acknowledged by others and talked to, I see them thrive. Dog-friendly Oktoberfest events give us a chance to learn about a different culture, cuisine, customs, and traditions.
And remember, if you can’t make it to the party in person, bring it to your RV! Dress up your dog (if she likes that) in her favorite themed outfit, make some dog-friendly pretzels and schnitzel, open a bottle of Bowser Beer made especially for dogs, and celebrate.
Image Courtesy of Getty
Will My Dog Enjoy Octoberfest?
Even though we may want our dogs with us all of the time, we have to acknowledge their personalities, abilities, health, and temperament before bringing them with us at events like Oktoberfest. Based on past experiences, consider these questions: Is your dog comfortable around large crowds, noise, and excitement? Is your dog healthy enough to be outdoors for long periods of time?
If you have any doubts about your dog enjoying Oktoberfest, it is best not to bring her. Even dogs that love events like Oktoberfest will enjoy a break from the action periodically, just as we do.
