Zootoberfest
Guests celebrate the start of autumn with an Oktoberfest-style festival featuring German-themed cuisine, live Bavarian bands, and beer trailers pouring over 40 varieties. Attendees can explore open animal habitats and zoo attractions while savoring festival items such as bratwursts, giant Bavarian pretzels, and specialty margaritas. For children, the event features educational activity stations alongside root beer.
See more family-friendly fall activities near St. Louis
Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
Free for all guests; food and beverages are available for purchase. A beer in a custom Zootoberfest stein is $12; refills are $7.50. A margarita in a custom Zootoberfest stein is $12; refills are $7.50 for any beer or margarita.
Hours
Fri, Sept. 11: 5-8 p.m.; Sat, Sept. 12: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun, Sept. 13: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat, Sept. 19: 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun, Sept. 20: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Ages
All ages
Food & Drink
German-themed fare includes bratwursts, giant Bavarian pretzels and other fall specialties; drinks include more than 40 beers (21+ only), root beer and Stein-A-Ritas.
Parking
Free parking after 4 p.m. on Friday, September 11, on a first-come, first-served basis.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Parking is free on a first-come, first-served basis after 4 p.m. on Friday, September 11.
- Plan animal viewing early during evening hours, as several outdoor exhibits close earlier than the rest of the zoo.
- Custom festival steins can be purchased for beer or margaritas and refilled at discounted rates throughout the event.
Special Events & Promotions
- Zootoberfest moves to September this year and includes extra hours.
- Zootoberfest at Night returns Friday, September 11, with So Grand Polka Band in Schnuck Family Plaza from 5 to 8 p.m.
- Free parking after 4 p.m. on Friday, September 11, is first come, first served.
Links & Contact
Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there activities available for children?
Yes, kids can participate in dedicated educational activity stations and enjoy root beer.
What kind of live entertainment is scheduled?
The event features live music from traditional polka and Bavarian bands like So Grand Polka Band, Die Spitzbuam, The Wurst Bavarian Band, and Über Cool, as well as live DJ performances.
Is an ID required to purchase beer?
Yes, beer and alcoholic beverages are available only to guests aged 21 and older, while supplies last.
Can guests view animals during the event?
Yes, zoo exhibits and attractions are open during festival hours, though certain animal areas close earlier in the evening.
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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. Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.