Celebrating The German Festivities Of Oktoberfest Near Greenville, SC

If you are looking for events to celebrate Oktoberfest, Greenville, SC offers several places celebrating Oktoberfest in Greenville and across the Upstate for you to enjoy. However, do you know why people celebrate Oktoberfest or when the event started? KAG has the in on what, where, and why of Oktoberfest, plus we’re sharing all the local Oktoberfest events so you can celebrate, too!

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The Origin of Oktoberfest in Germany

First, let’s talk about how this party got started. Over 200 years ago, a Bavarian crown prince married a princess, which resulted in days of drinking, feasting, and horse races.

I wanted to know why this marriage has been celebrated since October 12, 1810.

It turns out that those horse races were so popular, they decided to do it annually, and that’s why the party continues today. Although, oddly enough, those horse races are no longer a part of the celebration.

To get down to the truth, I consulted my cousin, Frau Roe. She’s a German teacher locally and my go-to for all things Bavarian-related.

Me:
So Frau Roe, Why do we celebrate Oktoberfest? Is it because of racehorses, love, or something else?

Frau Roe:
“Today, it’s more of a festival atmosphere, carnival rides, lots of food, lots of beer, still celebrated in the same spot under all those tents. Many Bavarians wear traditional clothing to celebrate history. (Lederhosen and Dirndl) So, while it has changed a lot over the years, the original reason is still in the hearts of the Bavarians. It’s definitely a celebration of heritage! ”

Now that we know the what and why let’s find out where!

2026 Oktoberfest Events Across The Upstate of South Carolina

• Walhalla Oktoberfest | October 16th – 18th, 2026
  For 40+ years this South Carolina town has been celebrating its German heritage with a weekend-long celebration. German food, American food, artisan vendors, carnival rides, and fireworks on Saturday night, make this a great family-friendly Oktoberfest to mark on your calendar.

The Country’s Longest Running Oktoberfest: Helen, GA

For hard-core Oktoberfest fans, the longest-running celebration in the US is just a short ride to the mountains of northern Georgia.

The 2026 event runs September 10-13, 17-20 and 24-27, then nightly from October 1 through November 1, 2026. The Oktoberfest parade steps off at noon on Saturday, September 12, 2026, followed by the ceremonial tapping of the first keg. Sunday admission is free, and kids under 6 always get in free. (Helen Chamber of Commerce)

Helen, Georgia, the alpine town, boasts the longest-running Oktoberfest celebration in the country, and it stretches on for nearly two months. From mid-September through the first of November, the town hosts a celebration that’s been happening for 50+ years — 2026 marks the 56th annual Helen Oktoberfest. My family loves Helen, and there’s fun to be had year-round there.

Fall in Love Anytime Of Year With This Bavarian Village Atop The Mountains Of North Georgia

Places To Enjoy German Food Year-Round In Greenville, South Carolina

• Unterhausen: The Castle Cellar Pub | 103 E Curtis St, Simpsonville
• Schwaben House | Restaurant | 1810 Laurens Road, Greenville
• Hans and Franz Biergarten | 3124 S Highway 14, Greenville

Now that you know the what, why and when about Oktoberfest, throw on that lederhosen or dirndl and get ready to celebrate more than 200 years of Oktoberfest tradition!