When the fall season rolls around, there are many things to look forward to: pumpkin patches, fall foliage hikes, apple festivals, and more. But one of the most popular annual fall events, particularly for those of German descent, is Oktoberfest. In Northern California, you can enjoy one exciting award-winning annual Oktoberfest celebration that has been around for almost 30 years.

The annual Campbell Oktoberfest is held at 231 E Campbell Ave. just off Highway 17 between the Campbell Community Center and Campbell Park.

This year’s award-winning celebration will take place Saturday, October 15 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sunday, October 16 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Traditional German and European foods are a big part of the celebration.

Think thick, juicy sausages, oversized pretzels, turkey legs, and pork schnitzel, for starters. There will also be lots of customary festival foods as well such as chicken wings, corn dogs, corn on the cob, and kettle corn, just to name a few.

Unlike some annual Oktoberfest celebrations with lots of adult-only activities, the Campbell Oktoberfest is family-friendly.

Adults and kids alike are invited to participate in the costume contests. For the little ones there will be a KidsZone, and there is also a wide array of exciting arts and craft booths.

Of course, great beer is the focal point of any Oktoberfest celebration!

The Biersch Garden is where you can sample some of the best beers and ales on tap around.

On both days of the Oktoberfest celebration there will be a Stein-Holding Contest.

A pure contest of strength in the Bavarian tradition, participants must hold a full, usually one-liter beer stein with a straight arm parallel to the ground for as long as possible. Every year approximately 30 men and 30 women compete in separate contests. The one in each category who lasts the longest wins!

Be sure to bring your dancing shoes.

Lively German and Swiss music really get the crowds rockin’!

Whether you come with family or friends, you’re guaranteed to enjoy some great fall Oktoberfest fun!

Have you been to the annual Campbell Oktoberfest? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experience there.

Have you ever seen a riverboat-themed car wash? There’s one in Campbell!