It’s nearly Fall y’all, so you know that means drinking season German style is here! Da Count and I headed over to Fulton Market to check out Oktoberfest Nation Chicago to celebrate! Running for six weekends from September 17 through October 26, 2026, this popup transformed the heart of the West Loop into a high-energy Bavarian celebration.
To be honest, getting there was kind of stressful as downtown traffic in Chicago can be a beast! Between the massive amounts of pedestrians and crazy drivers, you gotta be careful navigating the streets. Parking is difficult but not impossible as there are metered spots on Randolph St and we managed to score one a block away. Best to take CTA or rideshare to make things easier.
But hey, we made it and we were looking forward to the eats and drinks at Oktoberfest. The atmosphere was quite nice, lights were strung above the open air venue making it look like a sparkly ceiling of stars after dark. There were plenty of picnic tables so there is always a seat for dinner.
Da Count and I both enjoyed the hearty grilled bratwurst with sauerkraut (his, not mine lol). They were juicy and topped with one or more of the variety of mustards available at the condiment table, so good and filling! I recommend the strong brown mustard with white wine for a zippy flavor.
Omg we also had the most delicious soft Bavarian pretzels! They were literally as big as my head and so warm and buttery with just the right amount of salt. There was also cheese for dipping for an extra $3 but it is just as good with the delicious mustard, try the honey mustard!
You’re gonna need to wash down all the food and the best way to do so is with a traditional German beer. Cold, imported Hofbräu München (the OFFICIAL beer from Munich) was being poured in your choice of 16 or 32 oz souvenir steins and kept the crowd toasting (PROST) all night long. Refreshing and tasty, but I did have to keep Junior away from the drinkies – he’s too young!
There was a lively band who entertained the folk with traditional songs and popular tunes. Everyone was really into it too, a few were dancing on tables and someone started a conga line!
Carnival fun was also to be had with classic midway-style games like Shooting Gallery, Down a Clown and Break a Plate. We kinda failed at shooting but we won some awesome plushie prizes at the other games! Other traditional entertainments included the Devil’s Wheel where you can spin round and round til you fall down haha!
Da Count and I had a Fangtastic time at Oktoberfest Nation Chicago. Whether you go for the food, the beer, or to test your skill at the game booths, it’s an absolute must-visit for the season and is highly recommended by Team Gregula!
**FOUR FANGS UP**
Oktoberfest Nation in Fulton Market is located at 171 N Peoria Street Chicago, IL 60607 .
Open Thursday – Sunday for six weeks, from September 17 through October 26, 2026.
• Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Friday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
• Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Last Ticket is sold for entry 90 mins prior to close.
Ticket prices vary, Click HERE for more information and to purchase.
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