Every Fall, This College Town In Kansas Holds An Incredibly Fun Oktoberfest

The Sunflower State may be pretty far from Germany, but that doesn't mean we don't know how to throw a great Oktoberfest in Kansas! Hays is the largest city in northwest Kansas, and it's a college town, home to Fort Hays State University. Like most college towns, Hays is skilled in the art of throwing a wonderful party, and that's exactly what you'll find at the annual Hays Oktoberfest. The event coincides with the Fort Hays homecoming weekend and is a celebration of the area's German Russians. It's one of the best fall festivals in Kansas, and you won't want to miss it! The 2022 event takes place Friday, October 7 through Saturday, October 8.

You can find the family-friendly event at Municipal Park in the south end of downtown Hays.

The German market has all kinds of goods, both German-themed, food, and, of course, collegiate wear to support the Fort Hays State Tigers.

You'll find plenty of on-site entertainment, like live music...

...and even contests.

This year's festival features a stein-holding contest and an OktoberFEAST contest for participants 21 and older. There's also a pumpkin-rolling contest for the whole family.

It goes without saying you'll find plenty of German eats here.

Bratwurst, anyone?

In addition to the world's largest bierock, the festival is also home to plenty of brews.

There's also plenty to entertain the kids, with cornhole games, elementary school teacher and musician Jammin' Randy, and a bounce house.

This is such a fun Oktoberfest in Kansas and a great way to get into the fall spirit!

For more information about the Hays Oktoberfest, check out the celebration's official website or Facebook page.

Have you ever been to Oktoberfest in Hays, Kansas? Share your experiences in the comments!