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Where to Celebrate Oktoberfest with Vandalay Brands

  • Writer: Vandalay Brands
    Vandalay Brands
  • Sep 5
  • 2 min read

Updated: Oct 28

As the leaves turn and the crisp autumn air rolls in, Oktoberfest season takes center stage. At Vandalay Brands, we’re raising our steins and inviting you to two of the biggest Bavarian-inspired celebrations in the Chicago area: Clutchtoberfest at Double Clutch Brewing Company in Evanston and Oktoberfest at Millennium Hall in the heart of Millennium Park. Whether you’re craving craft beer, German eats, live music, or just a festive day out with friends, these events deliver the ultimate Oktoberfest experience.


Man in lederhosen stands on table raising hand under vintage signs in a lively beer hall, surrounded by people at blue-checkered tables.


Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 13, 2025, as Evanston’s largest brewery transforms into a Bavarian playground for Clutchtoberfest, Double Clutch Brewing Company’s 4th annual Oktoberfest celebration.


When & Where: 11 a.m.–9 p.m. at Double Clutch Brewing Company, Evanston

Highlights:

  • Watch the Northwestern vs. Oregon game to kick off the day.

  • Sway along with Keith Stras & Polka Confetti in the afternoon.

  • Cheer on (or compete in!) Pretzel Eating, Stein Hoisting, and Hammerschlagen contests.

  • Dance into the night with Chicago’s punk-polka legends, The Polkaholics.

  • Food & Drink: Authentic German-style beers brewed in-house, paired with pretzels, sausages, schnitzel, and more.

  • Extras: Collectible DCBC litre mugs for sale, Lederhosen and Dirndl attire encouraged.

  • Admission: Free!


Clutchtoberfest is more than a festival — it’s an Evanston tradition, bringing together families, students, and beer lovers for a full day of food, fun, and festivity.


People in traditional attire clink large beer mugs at a festive table at double clutch brewing company in evanston with a blue checkered pattern. Lively and cheerful atmosphere.


If the city skyline is calling your name, head downtown to Millennium Hall in Millennium Park for an unforgettable Oktoberfest celebration beneath Chicago’s most iconic landmark — Cloud Gate.


When & Where: September 20, 2025 at Millennium Hall, Millennium Park

Highlights:

  • Sip German-style lagers in Chicago’s largest beer garden.

  • Feast on Bavarian bites including bratwursts, pretzels, and schnitzel.

  • Join in on festive competitions like Stein Hoisting, Pretzel Eating, and Hammerschlagen.

  • Enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the day.

  • Atmosphere: A Bavarian village meets Chicago energy — the perfect blend of tradition and city buzz.

  • Admission: Free!


With its unbeatable location in Millennium Park, Oktoberfest at Millennium Hall is the ultimate downtown celebration — whether you’re a Chicagoan or a visitor looking to experience the city’s best seasonal festivity.


People in casual attire holding glasses aloft during a stein holding contest. Bright, sunny day with the "Bean" sculpture and trees visible.

Celebrate Oktoberfest with Vandalay Brands


Whether you head north to Evanston for Clutchtoberfest or gather under the Bean for Oktoberfest at Millennium Hall, one thing is certain: Vandalay Brands knows how to throw a party. Both events promise a perfect mix of German beers, Bavarian eats, live entertainment, and friendly competition — everything you love about Oktoberfest, with a Chicago-area twist.


So dust off your Lederhosen, grab your friends, and make plans to celebrate Oktoberfest with us this fall. Prost!



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