Klamath Basin Oktoberfest is back

People gather around the fire pit at Bill Collier Ice Arena, enjoying custom microbrews at the 2019 Oktoberfest as it enters evening hours. (submitted photo)

The following is a press release from the Klamath County Economic Development Association.

Annual brewing event returns to the basin in full form and is anticipated to be an experience not to miss out on 

KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - After a two-year absence, the long-awaited Klamath Basin Oktoberfest is back. No matter if you want to wear lederhosen or Levi’s, what’s for certain is you won’t want to miss this festival come this fall.

Following a two-year absence, the Klamath County Economic Development Association (KCEDA) announced that it would be resuming the instant tradition in its full scope, something the event-host has been unable to do since the festival was first introduced in 2019. The 2019 event had groundbreaking attendance, attracting over 2,500 people, representing a welcome mix of residents and travelers from regions throughout the West Coast. 

Located at the Bill Collier Ice Arena on the Running Y Ranch & Resort, the event will take place on Saturday, September 17 from 2:00 PM to 9:00 PM. As a regional gathering, The Klamath Basin Oktoberfest is designed to bring the community and tourists together to celebrate the remarkable brew, food, and entertainment options that exist right here in Southern Oregon. In addition to the many notable vendors participating at the event, there is also a wide selection of family-friendly games and activities for people of all ages to enjoy. 

After being awarded a Klamath County Tourism grant, KCEDA staff is currently underway with event preparations. KCEDA CEO, Randy Cox, discussed the return of the event, stating, "Our original goal in 2019 was to make this event a showcase of Klamath County, presenting visitors a chance to really experience the assets, culture, and people which make up our county. And we would not be able to proceed with bringing this experience to life though without the support of the County Commissioners and our many sponsors. I encourage people to mark September 17th on their calendar and pre-order tickets; this is a special experience we are confident people will want to take part in. “ 

Representatives at KCEDA additionally noted that more details about event specifics would be released as the event date gets closer. 

New to the event in 2022, is a shuttle service from Moore Park’s Marina via the Linkville Trolley.