Artistic rendering – Event may differ
La Mesa Oktoberfest
52nd year of Bavarian festivities with Dachshund Village and unique games.
About
Celebrate Bavarian traditions at the La Mesa Oktoberfest, a vibrant festival featuring live music, authentic German food, and a wide array of craft and traditional beers. Enjoy lively games, a dedicated kids' zone, and a special Dachshund Village with dog races. It's a weekend of community, fun, and festive spirit for all ages.
Our Take
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, beer enthusiasts, dog lovers
Vibe
Festive, traditional, lively, community-oriented
Energy Level
Medium
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- VIP Ticketed Experiences available
- Dackeldorf Dachshund Village with races and fashion show
- Kinder Village with games and activities for children
- Glücklich Games including Beer Stein Races and Tug-O-War
- Artisan Market with over 150 vendors
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Biergarten entry is $8 (under 21 free). VIP passes available starting at $10.
Duration
3 days
Ages
All ages (ID required for alcohol)
Neighborhood
La Mesa Village
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
McFarlane Promotions, Inc.
Practical Information
Parking
Parking is limited. Park-and-Ride stations are located along the Trolley lines, including El Cajon Transit Center, Amaya Drive Trolley Station, Grossmont Transit Center, and Spring Street Trolley Station.
Pet Policy
Dogs allowed on leash, not in biergartens
Food & Drink
German and international foods, craft beer, seltzer, and traditional German beers.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Purchase your transit passes in advance when buying tickets to avoid lines at the station.
- Arrive early for the Dachshund races and fashion show, as registration is day-of and spots can fill up quickly.
- Consider purchasing VIP passes for exclusive access, dedicated entrances, and amenities, as they sell out annually.
- Explore all three unique biergartens to experience different vibes, from traditional Munich-inspired to a laid-back Cali feel.
- Bring cash for vendor purchases and biergarten entry, as not all vendors may accept cards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to get to Oktoberfest?
The best way to get to Oktoberfest is by taking the MTS Orange Line Trolley to the La Mesa Boulevard Station, which drops off at the main entrance.
Is there parking available?
Parking is limited. It is recommended to use public transportation, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, or utilize the Park-and-Ride lots available at nearby Trolley stations.
Are dogs allowed at the event?
Yes, dogs are allowed and encouraged to participate in the Dackeldorf Dachshund Village activities. However, they are not permitted in the biergartens and must be kept on a leash.
Are the biergartens family-friendly?
Yes, all three biergartens are open to all ages. While children under 21 receive free entry to the biergartens, an ID is required to purchase and consume alcohol.
What kind of food and drinks can I expect?
You can expect a wide variety of traditional German and international foods, along with German beers, craft beers, and seltzers available across the three biergartens.
