About This Festival
Event Area and Surroundings
Augtoberfest takes place in the heart of downtown Lebanon, Indiana, on Meridian Street and the historic Courthouse Square. This central location features charming, walkable blocks with local shops, eateries, and historic architecture, providing a picturesque backdrop for a Bavarian-themed beer festival. The downtown square is easily accessible, with nearby public parking and a welcoming, small-town vibe that enhances the community feel of the event.
Event Vibe
Augtoberfest is a vibrant, 21+ celebration designed to evoke the spirit of a traditional German beer festival. The atmosphere is lively and communal, with attendees encouraged to embrace the Bavarian theme—think lederhosen, dirndls, and plenty of polka. Live music, dancing, and games create a festive, interactive environment. The event is family-friendly in spirit (despite the age restriction), with groups of friends, couples, and community members mingling under the lights of the courthouse square. Expect a mix of nostalgia, local pride, and a genuine appreciation for German culture—all while supporting local initiatives.
Activities and Schedule
Festival Layout:
The main stage is typically set up near the courthouse, with food, beer, and game stations arranged around the square for easy access and flow.
Rough Schedule of Events (Typical Year):
Times may vary slightly year to year; this is a general outline based on recent events.
| Time | Activity/Event | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5:00 PM | Doors Open | Event Entrance | Entry begins; ticketholders receive commemorative steins (if purchased online). |
| 5:30 PM | Live Music Starts | Main Stage | The Indianapolis Liederkranz German Band kicks off the evening. |
| 6:00 PM | Food & Beer Service Begins | Various Stations | German-themed food (e.g., Grilliant Foods), artisan pretzels, domestic & craft brews, cocktails with local spirits. |
| 6:15 PM | Polka Dancing & Audience Participation | Main Stage/Dance Area | Dance troupe (e.g., Fort Wayne Tanzer) leads group dances; wandering accordion player roams the square. |
| 6:30 PM | Bavarian Games Begin | Game Stations | Themed games and contests with prizes (exact games vary by year). |
| 7:00 PM | Themed Costume Contest | Main Stage | Attendees show off their best Bavarian attire for prizes. |
| 8:00 PM | More Live Music & Dancing | Main Stage | Band continues, with more audience participation. |
| 9:00 PM | Last Call for Food/Drinks | Food & Beer Stations | Final orders taken. |
| 9:30 PM | Closing Announcements & Prizes | Main Stage | Event concludes with final thanks and prize drawings. |
Food & Drink:
Expect German sausages, pretzels from local favorite Saw-Whet Farm, and other Bavarian specialties. Beer options include both domestic and regional craft brews, with a commemorative stein for online ticket buyers. Cocktails featuring local spirits are also available.
Entertainment:
Live polka from the Indianapolis Liederkranz German Band, a wandering accordionist, and performances by the Fort Wayne Tanzer dance troupe keep the energy high. Audience participation is encouraged.
Games & Activities:
Bavarian-themed games and contests (exact details vary yearly) are scattered throughout the square, offering chances to win prizes and engage with fellow attendees.
Merchandise:
The Heart of Lebanon tent sells event-themed items like hats, pins, and shirts. Special ticket packages include these collectibles.
Event History and Founding
Augtoberfest was founded as an annual fundraiser by The Heart of Lebanon, a local nonprofit dedicated to enhancing downtown Lebanon through community events and initiatives. The festival debuted as a way to bring people together for a uniquely themed evening of food, music, and merriment while supporting the organization’s broader mission. For its first nine years, Augtoberfest was a signature event under The Heart of Lebanon’s stewardship, growing in popularity each year. In 2025, Klooz Brewz, a local business, will take over the event—marking a significant transition in its decade-long history and ensuring the tradition continues with a fresh, local perspective.
Additional Details
- Tickets: Admission is charged, with advance online purchase recommended for perks like the commemorative stein. Tickets purchased at the gate include entry and a plastic stein.
- Accessibility: The event is handicapped accessible.
- Rain Date: In case of inclement weather, a rain date is typically scheduled for the following evening.
- Contact: For more information, visit the event website or call the provided contact number.
In summary, Augtoberfest is a beloved, community-driven Bavarian beer festival in downtown Lebanon, Indiana, offering a lively mix of music, food, games, and dancing—all in support of local revitalization efforts. Its central location, festive atmosphere, and decade-long tradition make it a highlight of the area’s event calendar.