Whether you've been invited to an Oktoberfest potluck or are hosting one yourself, you might be wondering: What should I bring? Over the past few years, our family has made hosting an outdoor Oktoberfest potluck one of our favorite fall traditions. With kids peeling apples for Bratapfel, friends roasting bread on sticks, and everyone gathered around the fire, it's a highlight of our year.
During our travels, my husband and I even made a quick stop at Hannover Oktoberfest, backpacks in tow, soaking in the festive atmosphere - a memory we'll never forget.
This guide will help you decide what to bring, share some of my favorite authentic German recipes, and provide tips for creating a memorable, family-friendly Oktoberfest celebration.
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What is Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest started in 1810 in Munich, Germany, as a celebration of the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig. What began as a one-time event with horse races quickly grew into an annual tradition. Over the years, it evolved into the lively festival we know today - full of music, dancing, colorful decorations, and plenty of hearty German food. Now, millions of people from all over the world come together each year to enjoy the fun, the food, and the unmistakable Bavarian spirit.
Oktoberfest Traditions at a Potluck
- Clothing: Guests can wear lederhosen or dirndls. Check out Rare Dirndl for a beautiful selection.
- Music and decoration: Play traditional Bavarian music and decorate with blue-and-white tableware.
- Food customs: While beer is part of the traditional Oktoberfest, the focus at family-friendly potlucks can be on classic German dishes.
These touches honor the history of Oktoberfest while making it accessible and fun for all ages. We also like to play games for all the kids that attend and play German Children Music.
What to Bring to an Oktoberfest Potluck
Whether you're a guest wondering what to bring or a host planning dishes, here are ideas for classic Oktoberfest favorites:
Appetizers & Snacks
- Pretzels - Soft, golden, and perfect for dipping. Try my German Pretzel Recipe
- Obatzda - A creamy Bavarian cheese spread, perfect with bread or pretzels. Obatzda Recipe
Main Dishes
- Bratwurst/ Sausages - Flavorful sausages from Schaller & Weber.
- Schnitzel - Easy to share and a crowd favorite.
- Spätzle- German Noodles; see my video.
Side Dishes
- Sauerkraut - A classic side; try my sauerkraut recipe.
- Rotkohl (red cabbage) - Sweet, tangy, and perfect with sausages. Try my Red Cabbage with Apples.
- German potato salad - A traditional side that's always a hit.
- German Cucumber Salad - Typically made with Sour Cream, Vinegar, Dill, and Oil.
- Bread Rolls- For Sausages; try my easy Spelt Rolls Recipe.
- German Coleslaw - Try my easy Caraway Coleslaw Recipe.
Condiments & More
- Mustard - Schaller & Weber has 2 amazing mustards: Sweet & Spicy Bavarian Mustard / Düsseldorf Horseradish Mustard
- Other Sides- Curry Ketchup, Paprika Chips, German Drinks, Horseradish Spread, Bread mixes, Sweet Treats & MORE. Get 10% off One Stop German Shop when you use: LOVEGERMANFOOD
Desserts
- Bee Sting Cake - Nutty and sweet; try my German Bee Sting Cake.
- Black Forest Cake - Rich, chocolatey, and fruity; see my Traditional Black Forest Cake .
- Bratapfel & Waffles - A fun family favorite: roasted apples wrapped in foil with cinnamon and sugar, served with waffles. German Spelt Waffles
Drinks
- Beer - My personal favorite for Oktoberfest is called: Rothaus.
- Non-alcoholic: Spezi (cola + orange soda). THIS IS A MUST HAVE AND ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC GERMAN DRINKS. Find selections from Sunset/Paulaner and use CODE: RAVENCAKES to get 20% off your order.
Tips for the Guest
If you're unsure what to bring, a side dish, dessert, or soft pretzels are always appreciated. If you don't like baking you can order from Brot Box, they offer Pretzels, and assorted breads that are AUTHENTIC German. Use CODE: RAVENCAKES for a 10% discount.
Our Family Oktoberfest Tradition
For our family, Oktoberfest is about more than food - it's about creating memories together:
- Bratapfel: Kids peel and slice apples, sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon, wrap them in foil, and roast them over the fire.
- Waffles: Each child gets their own waffle topped with their roasted apple. My Favorite Waffle Maker
- Stockbrot: Simple yeast dough wrapped around sticks and roasted over the fire. Kids also enjoy a hotdog alongside this tradition.
- Warm drinks for adults - small tastings of beer or hot spiced cider. I like to use my Instant Pot to keep drinks warm.
- Outdoor gathering: We enjoy the warmth of the fire, laughter, and the feeling of community.
This potluck-style tradition makes it easy for everyone to participate and brings the Oktoberfest spirit to life.
Tips for a Successful Potluck
- Label dishes clearly in English and German.
- Bring enough to share - potlucks are all about generosity.
- Add festive touches like blue-and-white napkins, themed decorations, and traditional music.
- Encourage participation: Even if someone hasn't hosted before, a small dish or side is enough to join in the fun.
Conclusion
An Oktoberfest celebration is about family, friends, and shared traditions. Whether you're attending or hosting, bringing a classic dish, a dessert, or even a fun family activity can make the day unforgettable. Try one of my authentic recipes, explore the shops I recommend for sausages, drinks, and sides, and start your own Oktoberfest tradition this fall.
