Schmidt’s Columbus Oktoberfest 2023: A Celebration of German Heritage

Every fall, Columbus, Ohio comes alive with one of its longest-running and most beloved events: Schmidt’s Columbus Oktoberfest. This annual celebration of German heritage has been a staple in the city for 57 years and promises a weekend of fun, music, dance, delicious food, and much more. Mark your calendars for Friday, September 8 through Sunday, September 10, 2023, because you won’t want to miss this incredible event.

One of the highlights of Columbus Oktoberfest is the opportunity to immerse yourself in German culture. From traditional German music and dance to German-themed games, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the heart of Bavaria. And, of course, there’s the food and drinks. Schmidt’s Restaurant & Sausage Haus, one of Central Ohio’s oldest family businesses, will be serving up a mouthwatering array of German delicacies, including Bratwursts, Bahama Mamas, Frankfurters, Fried Bologna, German Potato Salad, Sauerkraut, and their famous Jumbo Cream Puffs.

As if the promise of Bratwursts, Bahama Mamas, and Jumbo Cream Puffs from Schmidt’s Restaurant & Sausage Haus wasn’t enough, Columbus Oktoberfest offers an even wider array of delectable treats from a variety of food vendors.

• Taste Kettle Corn, Caramel Corn, Lemon Shake-Ups, and Iced Coffee. Enjoy Strudel and Cinnamon Roasted Nuts for a sweet and savory experience.
• Dive into Deep Fried Reuben, Deep Fried Brat, and Pork & Kraut wrap.
• Satisfy your sweet tooth with Cupcakes, Cookies, Cake pops, Brownies, and other delightful desserts.
• Relish a hearty meal with options like the Brisket Sandwich, Pulled Pork Sandwich, Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage, and Smoked Mac & Cheese from Legacy Smokehouse.
• Experience the flavors of Oktoberfest with offerings like Oktoberfest Chicken, Jager Schnitzel, Garlic Mushrooms, Goulash, and Weisswurst/Zoomer from Kinderhaus.
• Delight in Brats & Metts, Funnel Cakes, Reubens, Fresh Cut feather chips, Loaded feather cut chips, Pierogies/Loaded pierogies, Beef hot dogs, and Soda/water from DK Diner.
• And more……

This year’s Oktoberfest promises to be a feast for the senses. With three stages featuring more than 15 live bands both German music and contemporary, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to dance and sing along. The event also features MARKTPLATZ Pavilion, home to the Art & Craft Marktplatz and Merchant Market, featuring up to 85 exhibitors. The Art & Craft Marktplatz boasts unique handmade creations by talented artisans, while the Merchant Market showcases small businesses and service vendors. It’s the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures and the latest trends.

Columbus Oktoberfest is not just for adults; it’s a family-friendly event too. Bring the kids to Kinderplatz, a designated area full of exciting activities. Children can get creative with arts and crafts, bounce to their hearts’ content on inflatables, and learn about Ohio’s great outdoors from the Ohio Department of Natural Resource team. There’s even face painting and strolling accordionists to add to the festive atmosphere. Check out the full schedule here.

Here are the essential details you need to know about Schmidt’s Columbus Oktoberfest 2023:

• Dates and Times:
  • Friday: 5 pm – 12 Midnight
  • Saturday: 12 Noon – 12 Midnight
  • Sunday: 12 Noon – 8 pm
• Location: Ohio Expo Center / Ohio State Fair Grounds
• Admission: FREE!
• Weather: Don’t worry, Oktoberfest is one of few “weatherproof” outdoor events in Columbus.
• Parking: $12.00 per car (Ample paved parking available)
• To ensure everyone’s safety, all food and beverage purchases at Columbus Oktoberfest will be cashless. Credit cards will be the only accepted payment method, and you can even convert cash to an on-site Fest Card at the souvenier stand in the Heidelberg Hall.
• A portion of the proceeds from this year’s Oktoberfest celebration will be directed to several local charities.

Columbus Oktoberfest is more than just a festival; it’s a cultural experience that brings the spirit of Germany to Ohio. With great food, music, shopping, and family-friendly activities, it’s a weekend you won’t want to miss. So, grab your lederhosen and dirndls and join in the fun from September 8 to 10, 2023, at the Ohio Expo Center. Prost!