Oktoberfest Pittsburgh Officially Opens Thursday with Keg Tapping Ceremony on Ft. Duquesne Blvd.
Mayor Ed Gainey, County Executive Sara Innamorato, and Other Local Leaders Join to Launch Ten Days of Bavarian Fun in Downtown Pittsburgh
The countdown is over—Pittsburgh’s biggest Oktoberfest celebration will kick off Thursday, October 2 at noon with the ceremonial tapping of the keg on Fort Duquesne Boulevard. Mayor Ed Gainey, County Executive Sara Innamorato, and community leaders (some in traditional Bavarian attire) will raise a stein to officially launch nearly two weeks of festivities. This can’t-miss photo and media opportunity will feature:
- The official keg tapping with Mayor, County Executive, and other dignitaries
- Traditional German costumes and music
- A lively stein-holding showdown
- First pours of authentic German-style beer
- The return of the Ferris Wheel on the riverfront — a perfect media backdrop
From October 2–12, Oktoberfest Pittsburgh will transform Downtown into a Bavarian-style festival, complete with the Ferris wheel, Karneval rides and games, Dachshund races, daily live entertainment, and endless food and drink.
WHEN: Thursday, October 2, 2025 – 12:00 PM
WHERE: Edgar Snyder Stage on Fort Duquesne Boulevard, Downtown Pittsburgh
ADMISSION: Free and open to the public
MORE INFO: Full Oktoberfest Pittsburgh schedule and details go to oktpgh.com
MEDIA CONTACT: Richard A. Hooper | rhooper@downtownpittsburgh.com