About This Festival

The Oldenburg Freudenfest is a vibrant family-oriented German festival held annually in Oldenburg, Indiana, celebrating German heritage with music, food, games, and community activities. It is widely known as the "Biggest Little German Festival in Indiana" and provides a fun, inclusive atmosphere for all ages with authentic German entertainment and cuisine.

The festival’s founding dates back to 1976 when local volunteers organized it as a “family fun day” to celebrate their German roots. Despite growth over time, it retains its original spirit of community and family enjoyment. The festival is hosted primarily at the Oldenburg Town Hall and surrounding areas, which includes the picturesque Village of Spires, reflecting the area's German cultural heritage.

The 2025 Oldenburg Freudenfest event is scheduled for July 18 and July 19, with complimentary parking and free entry. The festival features a lively beer garden, German music, and traditional foods such as chicken dinners, bratwurst, sauerkraut balls (made by volunteers months ahead), pig wings, Reubens, and more. Attendees can savor the aromas of sizzling brats, roasted almonds, fresh pretzels, and deep-fried delights throughout the festival. The vibe is described as cheerful, family-friendly, and spirited with activities that encourage participation from all age groups.

A rough schedule includes:

  • Friday evening (starting around 5 PM): Opening events likely include live music and food service.

  • Saturday (starting early afternoon, around 1 PM): Main festivities kick off in full, including games, dance performances, food vendors, and continued live music.

  • Saturday night (8 PM to midnight): The festival closes with evening entertainment; beer tickets are sold only until 11 PM.

Key activities during the festival include:

  • Traditional German games such as Flying Chicken Toss, Stein Holding, Beer Slide, and Spires Toss.

  • Watching or joining German folk dancers.

  • Dachshund races, a uniquely charming local feature.

  • The "Freudenfest Twister Lauf 5K" fun run held Saturday morning at 9 AM, which runs through the scenic Village of Spires and benefits local school sports programs.

  • Kids’ games and family-friendly activities designed to keep children entertained.

  • A beer garden featuring various local and German brews.

  • Food booths with German and American fare, including the festival’s famous sauerkraut balls.

The atmosphere is festive and neighborly, emphasizing community connection, lively German music, and active engagement with cultural heritage.

The festival site is handicapped accessible, with shuttle service to nearby hotels for visitor convenience.

Overall, Oldenburg Freudenfest offers a rich slice of German culture combined with friendly Midwestern charm, perfect for families and festival-goers interested in authentic food, music, and traditional fun.