As leaves begin to change color and the air turns crisp and cool, the minds of St. Mary’s Catholic Church parishioners turn to… beer! That’s right, on one October weekend each fall, this Alton church holds one of the most authentic Oktoberfest celebrations in Illinois. So, don your dirndl, buckle your lederhosen, head to the River Bend, and hoist a stein of Paulaner. Prost!

St. Mary's Catholic Church, in Alton, has been serving the area's German Catholic community since 1859.
St. Mary's Catholic Church and School/Facebook
Keeping with the German heritage of the church's founders and community, it's hosted a popular Oktoberfest celebration for many years.
Alton, Illinois Oktoberfest at St. Mary's Catholic Church.
St. Mary's Catholic Church and School/Facebook
As with any Oktoberfest, beer is the highlight.
Alton, Illinois Oktoberfest at St. Mary's Catholic Church.
St Mary's Oktoberfest Alton/Facebook
Paulaner is the go-to brew at St. Mary's annual event.
St. Mary's Oktoberfest is widely considered the most authentic celebration in the River Bend region of Illinois.
St Mary's Oktoberfest Alton/Facebook
Given the region's deep German roots, this puts it in the running as one of the most authentic Oktoberfests in Illinois.
In addition to beer, you'll find plenty of food to enjoy, including pancakes.
Alton, Illinois Oktoberfest at St. Mary's Catholic Church.
St Mary's Oktoberfest Alton/Facebook
A hearty breakfast is important if you plan to get an early start on celebrating.
Folks serve up plenty of other German staples, as well.
Alton, Illinois Oktoberfest at St. Mary's Catholic Church.
St Mary's Oktoberfest Alton/Facebook

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It wouldn't be Oktoberfest without the classic bratwurst and sauerkraut combination.
St Mary's Oktoberfest Alton/Facebook
Don't forget to pick up some church merch, like the annual Oktoberfest stein.
St Mary's Oktoberfest Alton/Facebook
Kids will find a ton of fun activities at St. Mary's Oktoberfest, as well.
St Mary's Oktoberfest Alton/Facebook
Traditional music and polka dancing are a large part of the celebration.
St Mary's Oktoberfest Alton/Facebook
But contemporary bands keep Oktoberfest rocking.
St Mary's Oktoberfest Alton/Facebook
Every year, the St. Mary's Oktoberfest celebration lasts well into the night.
St Mary's Oktoberfest Alton/Facebook

Visit the church’s Oktoberfest website and Facebook page for more information on dates and times, as well as directions and event listings.

While you’re in the area, why not make a weekend of it and check out all there is to do in the state’s capital city of Springfield?

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St. Mary's Catholic Church, 519 E 4th St, Alton, IL 62002, USA