Information on:

Columbus Oktoberfest

Columbus Oktoberfest
717 E 17th Avenue

History of Oktoberfest

On behalf of the Schmidt family and the Columbus Oktoberfest we would like to welcome you to the 48th Annual Columbus Oktoberfest. Not only does the event have a tremendous history in this city, but the Schmidt family adds 127 years of Columbus tradition as well!

The Columbus Oktoberfest originated in Schiller Park, moved to the Ohio Expo Center, then set-up at multiple sites throughout German Village for several years (these sites each became unavailable due to new development in the district). Despite much success, the German Village Society sadly voted to cancel Oktoberfest in July of 2009, citing lack of profitability and the desire to move away from relying on weather-related events for fundraising efforts.

At this time, the Schmidt family stepped in on behalf of the Oktoberfest, partnering with the Ohio Expo Center (a previously successful site which offers unique facilities resembling authentic German beer halls) and the Cox Family, another local business offering over fiftythree years of family experience in the event industry. With only eleven weeks, a handful of promotional partners and a shoestring budget, the Schmidt's and their partners were able to produce an outstanding Oktoberfest that exceeded the expectations of all. Despite horrendous weather, the competing OSU home Big Ten game, a new location and much skepticism in the media, attendance exceeded 35,000 throughout the three-day event!

Columbus Oktoberfest is not affiliated with AmericanTowns Media