Sahuarita Oktoberfest
Friday, September 25, 2026
The Sahuarita Oktoberfest is more than just a festival—it’s a full-sensory journey into tradition, culture, and community spirit. Imagine the lakeside air filled with the sounds of lively polkas, the smell of sizzling bratwurst and warm pretzels, and the laughter of families gathered for games and contests. Authentic Bavarian traditions meet Southern Arizona flair, offering guests a truly immersive experience that feels both global and local.
From the rich heritage of folklórico and Polish folk dancing to the joy of raising a stein in the Beer Garden, every element of the festival is designed to connect people to one another through art, music, food, and play. By joining us, you’ll not only taste and hear Oktoberfest—you’ll live it, as part of a community celebration that brings the world to Sahuarita’s own backyard.
Dates & Times
Friday, September 25, 2026
5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Free Admission
Location & Parking
Sahuarita Lake Park
Sahuarita Lake Park
15466 S Rancho Sahuarita Blvd, Sahuarita, AZ 85629
Nestled in the heart of the community, Sahuarita Lake Park is a 15-acre oasis featuring a scenic, man-made lake encircled by a one-mile walking path. The park offers shaded ramadas, playgrounds for kids, open green spaces, and fishing piers—all serving as the backdrop for the festival. With sweeping desert mountain views and tranquil waters, the park is a natural fit for a cultural gathering that blends art and nature in harmony.
Apply to Participate in the Festival
Sponsors & Partners
2026 Food, Drink & Culinary Delights
Eat, Drink & Celebrate Oktoberfest
Come hungry! Sahuarita Oktoberfest is serving up plenty of festival favorites, from sizzling bratwurst and giant Bavarian-style pretzels to Russian dumplings, sweet treats and more. Grab a bite, find your favorite brew and settle in for an evening of Oktoberfest fun.
Haus of Brats
It wouldn’t be Oktoberfest without the brats! Tucson-area favorite Haus of Brats brings the flavors of a German festival with a lineup of specialty bratwursts and traditional sides. Choose from The Brat, Über Brat, Beer Brat or Reuben Brat, then round it out with potato pancakes, German potato salad, sauerkraut or a pretzel with German mustard. Little festival-goers can dig into a kid-friendly frankfurter and chips.
Papa’s Pretzels
Fresh, golden and made by hand, Papa’s Pretzels is bringing a taste of Bavaria right here to Sahuarita. Their handcrafted Bavarian-style soft pretzels combine a beautifully baked exterior with that warm, soft center every great pretzel needs. Grab one to snack on as you explore the festival or pair it with a cold Oktoberfest beer for the full experience.
MP Food Productions
Looking for something beyond traditional festival fare? MP Food Productions, led by Natalia “Nikkiloo” Mueller, brings more than 15 years of culinary experience and a menu made from scratch. Festival-goers can discover Russian dumplings, freshly prepared crepes and puff pastries, alongside hearty favorites like smoked brisket and pulled pork sandwiches, specialty burgers, salads and sides.
Col. Mustard’s Hot Dogs / Mr. Ice Guy Italian Ice
A little nostalgia, a little mystery and a lot of fun! Col. Mustard’s Hot Dogs / Mr. Ice Guy Italian Ice brings its playful, Clue-inspired street-food experience to Oktoberfest. Dig into hot dogs, bratwurst and Polish sausage, then cool things down with their homemade Italian ice. It’s classic festival food served with plenty of personality.
Eatgypt
Tucson-based Eatgypt brings a plant-based Mediterranean twist to Sahuarita Oktoberfest with a menu blending German favorites and Egyptian flavors. Enjoy a special Oktoberfest Koshary made with rice, lentils, chickpeas, spaetzle, savory tomato sauce, and crispy onions; a flaky vegan Apfelstrudel filled with cinnamon-spiced apples, raisins, and nuts; and Eatgypt’s traditional Egyptian baklava made with olive oil, walnuts, rosewater syrup, cardamom, cinnamon, and crushed rose petals. Wash it all down with Spezi, the classic German cola-orange soda made with vegan cane sugar. Vegan and gluten-free options are available.
Raise a Stein in the Beer Garden
No Oktoberfest celebration is complete without a great beer!
Guests 21+ can head to the Beer Garden and explore a handpicked lineup that brings together classic German brewing traditions and Arizona craft beer. From crisp pilsner and smooth Märzen-style festival beer to dark German lager, IPA and a refreshing grapefruit wheat beer, there’s a pour for just about every palate.
Pick up your copy of the commemorative Oktoberfest Merchandise including color changing cups and limited edition can coolers.
Grab your food. Pick your pour. Raise your glass. PROST!
Radeberger Pilsner
Germany · German Pilsner
Crisp, clean and distinctly German, Radeberger delivers the refreshing hop character and dry finish that have made German pilsners a classic. A great choice for pairing with bratwurst or a salty Bavarian pretzel.
Dragoon Helles Fest
Tucson, Arizona · Festbier
A little local flavor for Oktoberfest! Tucson’s Dragoon Brewing Co. brings its Helles Fest, a smooth, malt-forward festival lager inspired by the easy-drinking beers poured during Oktoberfest celebrations. An Arizona-made companion for brats, pretzels and a night in the Beer Garden.
Dragoon IPA
Tucson, Arizona · American IPA
For hop lovers, Dragoon IPA brings a bold Arizona craft-beer option to the lineup. Expect a hop-forward pour with plenty of character—a flavorful change of pace between the traditional German selections.
Warsteiner Dunkel
Germany · Dark Lager
Go to the dark side of the Beer Garden with Warsteiner Dunkel. This German dark lager offers smooth malt character and roasted, caramel-like notes while remaining remarkably drinkable. Try it alongside one of the festival’s heartier dishes.
Schöfferhofer Grapefruit
Germany · Grapefruit Hefeweizen
Bright, fruity and incredibly refreshing, Schöfferhofer Grapefruit combines German wheat beer with grapefruit for a lighter, citrus-forward pour. It’s a fun choice for anyone looking for something a little different from a traditional lager.
Paulaner Oktoberfest Bier
Munich, Germany · Oktoberfest Beer
Here’s the one to raise for a proper “Prost!” Paulaner is one of Munich’s historic Oktoberfest breweries, making its Oktoberfest Bier a fitting centerpiece for the Beer Garden. Smooth, golden and brewed for celebration, this is about as close as Sahuarita gets to raising a stein in Munich.
Athletic Oktoberfest
Non-Alcoholic Oktoberfest-Style Beer
Celebrating without the alcohol? We’ve got you covered. Athletic Oktoberfest brings the malt-forward character and seasonal spirit of an Oktoberfest beer in a non-alcoholic option, so more guests can join in the toast.
2026 Live Music
Music & Live Entertainment
The mainstage comes alive with the sounds and movement of classic Oktoberfest entertainment:
Retro Polka 7 |
Lajkonik Tucson
Polish Dance
Performing 6 PM and 7:30 PM at the Sahuarita Lake Amphitheatre
The Lajkonik Polish Folk Ensemble has been sharing the rich traditions of Poland since its creation in 1998. Through song and dance the group promotes Polish culture as it performs at festivals, school events, retirement homes, and many other venues, including the University of Arizona. Lajkonik enjoys a large and growing following in Tucson, and it has performed in Phoenix, Las Vegas, Seattle, Salt Lake City and Poland.
Peter Kron
Polka & Pop Accordion
Performing 5 PM – 8:30 PM on the South Lawn
Peter Kron is a dynamic live music entertainer based in Southern Arizona, known for his vibrant solo performances as an accordionist and vocalist. Blending live vocals and acoustic accordion with electronic accompaniment, Peter creates the rich sound of a full band—perfect for dancing yet balanced enough for easy conversation.
His extensive repertoire includes traditional German and Austrian folk tunes, yodeling polkas, and waltzes to world ballroom styles, American standards, country hits, and classic rock & roll. Tailoring each show to the audience, Peter encourages joyful participation in the spirit of Gemütlichkeit—a celebration of coziness and good cheer. Ideal for small to mid-size venues, Peter delivers lively, crowd-pleasing entertainment!
2026 Artisan & Maker Village
Arts, Crafts & Community
Stroll the festival grounds and explore a vibrant showcase of local creativity and community. From handcrafted goods to cultural experiences and family-friendly info booths, our artisan market is the perfect place to connect, shop, and discover something new.
Artisans
- AnnHoff.com – Colorful pastel artwork, pet portraits, ceramics, and specialty gifts.
- Bijoubywendy – Small-batch handmade jewelry combining wood and other natural-inspired materials.
- Butterfly Creations Az – Handmade resin jewelry and trinkets featuring pressed Arizona wildflowers and native plants.
- Ceramics By James – Functional handmade pottery featuring vibrant, complex glazes.
- Cheryl’s Jams and Jellies – Handmade jams, jellies, candied pecans, and specialty seasonings.
- Entwined Together – Handcrafted copper and sterling silver jewelry featuring turquoise, leather, and custom patinas.
- Eve Bigaj – Vibrant oil and pastel paintings inspired by saguaros and the Sonoran Desert.
- Good Great Grater – Handcrafted functional ceramics, including grater plates, olive oil bottles, and kitchenware.
- IKL Wares – Handcrafted silver jewelry inspired by the plants, textures, and landscapes of the Sonoran Desert.
- Made by Amy Jo – Handmade wire jewelry inspired by wildflowers, vines, and the natural world.
- Ruthie’s Paintings – Colorful desert-inspired paintings, prints, greeting cards, stickers, totes, and gifts.
- Sam’s Museum – Nature-inspired drawings, mixed-media artwork, jewelry, and handmade curiosities celebrating wildlife.
- T.A.G. Custom Laser Engraving, LLC – Personalized wood, textile, and mixed-media gifts, including boards, coasters, hats, and accessories.
- The Spice Jam – Small-batch fruit preserves, organic tea blends, baked goods, and artisan foods.
- Uniquely Made Cookies – Handmade plant-based cookies and vegan baked treats.
- What a Gem – Playful handmade jewelry, embellished hats, clothing, and accessories.
- Wild Essence Wellness – Artisan spice blends, infused honey, herbs, and nature-inspired wellness products.
Nonprofit & Community Exhibitors
- Borderlands Theater – Tucson-based theater and cultural programs celebrating stories and communities of the Sonoran Desert.
- Health Equity Analytics Lab – Community health resources connecting research, data, and health equity.
Business Exhibitors & Sponsors
- ICCU (Sponsor)– Financial wellness resources, credit union information, and interactive activities.
- Renewal by Andersen – Energy-efficient windows and doors, home improvement resources, and design information.
- Semper Fi Heating & Cooling – Veteran-owned HVAC and plumbing services, information, and complimentary service giveaways.
- Superior Water Treatment – Water treatment solutions, filtration information, and a festival sweepstakes giveaway.
- Wyyerd Fiber (Sponsor) – High-speed fiber internet, local connectivity resources, and community information.
Food Vendors
- Col. Mustard’s Hot Dogs / Mr. Ice Guy Italian Ice – New York and Chicago-style hot dogs, bratwursts, and homemade Italian ice.
- Eatgypt – Plant-based Egyptian and Mediterranean dishes, including vegan and gluten-free options.
- Haus of Brats – Authentic bratwursts, German-inspired specialties, and festival favorites.
- MP Food Productions – Scratch-made pelmeni, pirozhki, crepes, baked goods, and international specialties.
- Papa’s Pretzels – Fresh-baked Bavarian-style pretzels, savory sides, and sweet treats.
2026 Games, Activities & Contests
Sahuarita Oktoberfest is a full evening of interactive fun for all ages! From charming cultural experiences to goofy games and goodhearted competition, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Pumpkin Bowling & Pretzel Toss
Perfect for kids and families, these playful games are easy to learn and hard to walk away from. Score big and win bragging rights — no prior pumpkin bowling experience required.
Sahuarita Sausage Toss Contest
6:25 PM at the Sahuarita Lake Park Amphitheater
How far can you fling a sausage? Find out in this wildly popular event that blends Oktoberfest energy with hometown silliness. Space is limited — sign up early to compete!
Sahuarita Steinholding Challenge
7:50 PM at the Sahuarita Lake Park Amphitheater
Test your strength and stamina as you hold a full stein at arm’s length for as long as you can. It’s harder than it looks — and way more fun when the crowd gets involved. Contestants must sign up in advance!
Family Oktoberfest Photo Booth
Grab a friend, don a hat and lederhosen, and capture the night in a free souvenir snapshot. Because every great Oktoberfest deserves a photo finish.
Kinder Art Haus
Let creativity take center stage in the KidsZone with hands-on art activities designed just for young festivalgoers! Kids can paint their own regional crest flag, decorate a gingerbread heart, enjoy facepainting, or get festive with pumpkin painting — all for free. These drop-in stations encourage imagination, cultural connection, and messy fun the whole family will love.
Volunteer
Volunteer with us and be part of the excitement at the Festival! From welcoming guests and supporting artists to helping the event run smoothly behind the scenes, there’s a role for everyone. Opportunities include artist relief, artist hospitality, information booth and festival ambassador roles, and event setup and breakdown.
Volunteer shifts will be posted and available for sign-up beginning 30 days prior to the event—join us in creating an unforgettable celebration of art, flavor, and community.
Sponsor the Event
The Festival is more than an event—it’s an investment in culture, community, and creativity. Sponsorship directly fuels a platform where artists, families, and neighbors come together to celebrate the transformative power of the arts in daily life.
As a sponsor, your brand will:
Strengthen the Local Creative Economy: Support 25 local and regional artists, artisans, and makers who rely on this event to showcase their work and sustain their livelihoods.
Amplify Community Identity: Align with a signature event that enhances Sahuarita’s reputation as a hub for culture, innovation, and family-friendly engagement.
Showcase Corporate Social Responsibility: Position your business as a champion of arts, education, and cultural vitality in Southern Arizona.
Engage Thousands of Attendees: Connect directly with festival-goers through on-site visibility, meaningful brand integration, and authentic community interaction.
Build Long-Term Goodwill: Create lasting impressions by supporting programs that foster creativity, inspire cultural understanding, and enrich the quality of life in our region.
Tips for Attending the Festival
Tips for Attending the Festival
Free Parking: Parking is available in surrounding lots along Rancho Sahuarita Blvd., with overflow parking in nearby community areas. Volunteers and signage will direct you.
Dress Comfortably: The festival is fully outdoors—wear walking shoes, sun protection, and bring layers for cooler breezes.
Family-Friendly: Interactive murals and art zones are open to children and families—perfect for hands-on creativity.
Food & Beverage: A variety of food trucks will be on-site, offering snacks, meals, and refreshments throughout the evening.
Cash & Card: Many vendors accept cards, but cash is recommended for quicker transactions.
Pets: Leashed pets are welcome, but please keep them comfortable and hydrated.
