Keg Tapping Ceremony, Ferris Wheel and Traditional German Fare; Beloved Experiences Return for 2025
(Sept. 17, 2025) – The countdown is on for Oktoberfest Pittsburgh, happening October 2 through October 12 along Fort Duquesne Boulevard and the 6th Street (Roberto Clemente) Bridge.
The 10-day celebration of Bavarian culture and special events will commence with a ceremonial keg tapping where the first beer will be poured at noon on Thursday, October 2 at the Edgar Snyder Stage on Ft. Duquesne Blvd. featuring an appearance by Pittsburgh Mayor, Ed Gainey.
Year two of Oktoberfest Pittsburgh brings back all the Bavarian-inspired fun of last year’s inaugural event, complete with the return of the iconic Ferris wheel on the 6th Street (Roberto Clemente) Bridge, presented by Flyspace, the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership, and Riverlife. Towering over the Allegheny River, the Ferris wheel offers festivalgoers sweeping skyline views for approximately 10-minutes of ride time at just $7 a ticket.
“We’re thankful to Allegheny County for approving the return of the Ferris wheel on the Roberto Clemente Bridge as this truly captures what makes Oktoberfest Pittsburgh so special,” said Jeremy Waldrup, President and CEO of the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership. “It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that celebrates our city in a way only Pittsburgh can, and this year, the festivities will all take place along the river, bringing all the traditions and activities together in one place. We certainly hope that the community will come join us to ‘raise one by the river!’”
“We’re proud to support Oktoberfest and activate the riverfront with an event that brings people together from across the region and beyond,” said Matt Galluzzo, President and CEO of Riverlife. “Creating vibrant, unique, and welcoming spaces along the riverfront is at the heart of our mission, and we’re thrilled to play a part in bringing the Ferris wheel back to the bridge.”
In addition to the Ferris wheel, festivalgoers can enjoy a full slate of authentic Oktoberfest traditions. Festival tents will feature a lively biergarten pouring classic brews featuring a mix of local Pittsburgh brews, imported German drafts and more, alongside non-alcoholic options. Music will keep the energy high throughout the day and into the night on the Edgar Snyder Stage, with Oompah bands and polka performers setting the soundtrack for the celebration.
The spirit of competition will be alive throughout the festival. Guests can cheer on contenders or test their own strength in the fan-favorite, UFC Gym-sponsored, Stein Holding Contest. Registration is now open online here.
Families will enjoy Karneval-style games and activities for kids and adults alike, while shoppers can explore unique festival merchandise to take home as a lasting keepsake.
Playing a key role in the success of last year’s inaugural festival, Flyspace Productions is once again a driving force behind bringing the celebration to life.
“We’re excited to partner with Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix and the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership for the second year of Oktoberfest,” said Jennifer Owen, President of Flyspace Productions. “Building on last year’s success, we’re bringing even more energy and experiences to create a festival the community will love this fall.”
From big views atop the Ferris wheel to big cheers in the biergarten, Oktoberfest Pittsburgh is a city tradition not to be missed!
DETAILS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS
FESTIVAL DATES AND TIMES:
Between Oct. 2-12, the Biergarten will be open daily from noon to 8 p.m.
Fridays and Saturdays: noon to 10 p.m.
GRAND OPENING/CEREMONIAL KEG TAPPING:
Oktoberfest begins with the official keg tapping ceremony and Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey will be in attendance to help celebrate this time-honored tradition.
When: Thursday, October 2, 2025, at noon
Where: Edgar Snyder Stage on Ft. Duquesne Blvd.
Admission: Free and open to the public
FERRIS WHEEL/KARNEVAL Presented by Riverlife:
The 60-foot Ferris wheel is circling back to Sixth Street/Roberto Clemente Bridge and will offer a one-of-a-kind view of the city, along with family-friendly Karneval games, vendors and activities. The Karneval games include High Strike, Bottle Ring Toss, Duck Pond, Oktoberfest Wheel of Fun, Clowning Around and Pig Race. Tickets to play can be purchased at the Karneval Ticket Booth and prices will vary per game. Families can also find enjoyment with face paintings designed by Face Paint Pittsburgh and Kinderplay presented by NRG.
When: October 2-12, open noon to 8 p.m. daily; Fridays and Saturdays: noon to 10pm
Where: Sixth Street/Roberto Clemente Bridge
Ferris wheel tickets: $7, timed for approx. 10-minute ride; riders must be 42 inches tall.
Tickets now available for pre-purchase here: https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/oktpgh/oktoberfest-pittsburgh-ferris-wheel-2025#
Karneval tickets: Available to purchase at the box office; prices will vary per game
KINDERPLAY:
Step into the magic of Kinderplay at Oktoberfest, where creativity meets family fun! Kids of all ages can join teaching artists from the Pittsburgh Center for the Arts and Media to make festive Oktoberfest-themed necklaces and whimsical paper cuckoo birds. Admission is free and open to everyone, so bring the whole family and add a colorful, crafty twist to your Oktoberfest weekend.
When: Saturdays and Sundays, October 4-5 and October 11-12; noon to 6 p.m.
Admission: Free and open to the public; all ages are welcome
Activities: Make Oktoberfest-themed necklaces and paper cuckoo birds, led by teaching artists from the Pittsburgh Center for Arts & Media
STEIN HOLDING Presented by UFC Gym:
Get ready to test your strength and skills! Oktoberfest Pittsburgh is bringing fans Axe Throwing and Stein Holding contests, presented by UFC Gym. Stein Holding registration is available here:
Link to register now available here: https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/oktpgh/oktoberfest-pittsburgh-feats-of-strength-stein-holding-competition-2025
When: October 4-5 and October 11-12; 2 p.m., 6 p.m., 8 p.m.
Where: Edgar Snyder Stage on Ft. Duquesne Blvd.
DACHSHUND RACES Presented by CLEAN Auto Wash:
Calling all Dachshunds! Does your low-rider have what it takes to dash to victory? Register your furry friend for our Dachshund races presented by CLEAN Auto Wash today! Registration to the event is free. Please bring vet vaccination records to registration.
Link to free registration now available here: https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/oktpgh/oktoberfest-pittsburgh-dachshund-races-2025
When: Saturdays and Sundays, October 4-5 and October 11-12
Schedule: Heats begin at 4 p.m., finals at 4:45 p.m.
GERMAN CAR DISPLAY
The Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix is bringing the nation’s only vintage street race cars to fans at Pittsburgh Oktoberfest on October 4th. Experience a global celebration of automotive excellence in downtown Pittsburgh as vintage German cars will be lining the streets.
When: Saturday, October 4, 2025
Where: North Side of Clemente Bridge
Admission: Free and open to the public
Special thanks to the Benter Foundation for their support of programming and events all season long.