(Graphic courtesy of Lay It Out Events)
Get ready to raise a stein and celebrate the season — Bend Oktoberfest is back on Saturday, September 20, and this year it’s bringing even more fun to downtown Bend with the addition of The Bark Bash, a full afternoon of dog races and canine-themed competitions benefiting the Humane Society of Central Oregon.
This free, family-friendly festival takes place from 2-9pm at the Deschutes Historical Museum and promises a jam-packed day of entertainment, food, beer, and plenty of quirky competition.
The event kicks off with Bark Bash from 2-4pm, featuring the always-hilarious Wiener Dog Races, the Running of the Bulldogs, the fan-favorite Corgi Crush, and the Mutt Strut Dog Show with categories like Best Trick, Fastest Eater, and Costume Contest. Entry fees for Bark Bash events support the Humane Society of Central Oregon.
From 5-7pm, the festivities shift to Oktoberfest games and challenges. Attendees can sign up in advance to compete in crowd-pleasers like the Stein Holding Contest, Pretzel Toss, Beer Slide, Barrel Rolling Race, and more. Costumes and yodeling are encouraged — and rewarded!
The night wraps up with live music from 7-9pm, a perfect backdrop to enjoy craft beer, local food vendors, and the community spirit that defines Bend’s fall event season.
Vendor spaces are still available, and advance registration for all Oktoberfest games and dog competitions is strongly encouraged due to limited capacity.
Prost, Bend! We’ll see you at the Deschutes Historical Museum on September 20.
