Did you know that the first-ever Oktoberfest actually celebrated a marriage? For nearly a week in October of 1810, the inaugural Oktoberfest in Munich was meant for the marriage of Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The couple decided that the party be repeated annually in, and eventually Oktoberfest became one of the largest festival in the world.
While we all can’t visit the official Oktoberfest held in Munich every year, communities far and wide try to replicate the festivities to celebrate autumn–and good beer–with their own local touch. There’s nothing like spending a day in the fresh, fall air with a crisp beer in hand, enjoying live entertainment and activities with friends and family.
We’ve collected a list of Oktoberfests on and around Hilton Head Island. This year’s list is organized by date, with both events on the island highlighted in orange. Additional Oktoberfests are located in areas that’ll make for a perfect day’s outing off-island.
Hilton Head Oktoberfest at The Bank
Saturday, September 26th, 2026
11:30am at The Bank
Head to The Bank, a beer garden located on the south end of the island that offers a variety of food in addition to beverages, for the third annual Hilton Head Oktoberfest held at this location. So far, we only know the date, start time, and location for this event, but stay tuned for more information!
Stay up to date with The Bank’s event on their Facebook Page.
BlufftemberFest (Bluffton, SC)
Saturday, September 26th, 2026
3:00-8:00pm at Oyster Factory Park
Distance from HHI: ~8 mi., 15 minutes
Bluffton’s Oktoberfest began in 1992, and attendees keep coming back for great live music, delicious food and beverages, as well as arts and crafts. There will be live performances by headliner, The Chiggers, as well as special guest, Peach Patrol.
This event is rain or shine and cash only. Don’t forget your lawn chairs! Bring your pets if they’re on a leash! Purchase festival tickets in advance on the event’s website for a discount. Children 12 and under are free.
Hilton Head Island’s Oktoberfest presented by Rollers & Local Legend Brewing Co.
Sunday, October 4th, 2026
12:00-5:00pm at Rollers, 9 Palmetto Bay Rd, Hilton Head Island, SC
Head to Hilton Head Island’s Oktoberfest at Rollers for a beautiful fall day filled with great beer, German-inspired fun, and live music by The Chiggers and Anna Barnes. And when we say great beer, we mean it! You’ll be met with more than fifteen beer vendors ranging from local breweries like Lincoln and South and Side Hustle Brewing, to other foreign breweries. Take part in the official Rollers Stein Hoist Competition, or dress to impress and compete for a chance to win awesome prizes during the event’s Costume Contest.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the event’s website.
Plant Riverside District Oktoberfest (Savannah, GA)
Weekends in October (Oct. 3-11)
Plant Riverside District
Distance from HHI: ~31 mi., 50 minutes
The Sixth Annual Oktoberfest Celebration held at Plant Riverside District in Downtown Savannah will span over two weekends in October. Similar to the first-ever Oktoberfest, Savannah’s will include a race, but instead of horses, there will be the Savannah Wiener Dog Races. Additional competitions include the Strudel Stroll, Pretzel Fishing, Keg Bowling and Stein Holding Challenge. These events are family-friendly, so bring your group and arrive hungry, as delicious, authentic German food will be served while you enjoy the live music and other festivities.
