German Experience in Southern California

With Oktoberfest upon us once again, regions all over the world are celebrating German culture and tradition. For those of you in Southern California, there are some great opportunities available to enjoy a taste of authentic Bavaria. Here are OROGOLD’s favorite German experiences in Southern California.

Alpine Village, Torrance
Home to the oldest, and one of the longest running, Oktoberfest celebrations in Southern California, Alpine Village’s Oktoberfest runs all the way until the end of October, with every Sunday being family day. Their Alpine Steinhaus is a European-inspired tavern that serves up delicious German fare, from schnitzel to giant pretzels, along with a great selection of craft beers. The Bavarian party bands create a festive atmosphere, and OROGOLD highly recommends a visit to the Alpine Market for some hard-to-find European ingredients, as well as some of the finest local produce.

Anaheim, Orange County
Anaheim, in the heart of Southern California’s Orange County, has hosted their annual Oktoberfest celebrations for the past fifty years. The festivities are held every weekend until the end of October, and promise to bring you an authentic German experience. Traditional Oom Pah Pah bands play every day, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere, and there is plenty of German food and beer to choose from. There are also many fun-filled events to attend, either as a participant or as an audience member. From the beer drinking and sausage eating competitions, to free polka lessons to twist and shout balloon twisters, there are a wide range of activities to take part in, designed to keep the whole family entertained. There will also be pony rides for children, as well as a rifle range open to the public.

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Big Bear Lake, San Bernardino Mountains
Big Bear Lake is a small city in the San Bernardino Mountains, surrounded by the San Bernardino National Forest. For the past 45 years, Big Bear Lake has hosted their very own Oktoberfest celebrations, using their old-world ambiance and traditions to create an authentic Bavarian festive atmosphere. With traditional German entertainment, the best meats straight from a German butcher, and the very same beers that have been poured at Munich’s Oktoberfest for the last 150 years, this is one celebration that you won’t want to miss. The festivities run until the end of October, so there is still plenty of time to head on over for some Bavarian fun. If you are a Big Bear Lake local, OROGOLD advises that you visit on a Sunday, as every Sunday is Local’s Day with free admission.

Oktoberfest is celebrated all over the world, but Southern California has some of the best festivities in the entire US. From enjoying a Bavarian feast in the fresh mountain air of Big Bear Lake to taking part in a German sausage eating contest in Anaheim, Orange County, these are some of the best places to enjoy an authentic German experience in Southern California.