Grab a pretzel and raise a stein: Gatlinburg’s original Oktoberfest Celebration is back at Ober Gatlinburg. From September 25 through November 1, 2026, the mountaintop transforms into a Bavarian-style festival, combining the sights, sounds, and flavors of traditional Oktoberfest with some of the best fall foliage views in the Smoky Mountains.
Expect blue-and-white Bavarian and fall decorations, oversized steins, and plenty of seasonal photo opportunities, all set against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains.
What to Expect
- Biergarten fun: Relax under the tent with live music and entertainment, plus seasonal beer specials from Yee-Haw Brewing Co.
- Weekend polka: Live polka bands on the outdoor sound stage each weekend, with traditional Oktoberfest dances and sing-alongs
- Stein-holding competitions: Test your strength and see how long you can hold on
- Weekday entertainers: Roaming performers showing off feats of skill and magic for guests of all ages
- German-inspired menu: Grilled bratwurst and sauerkraut, grilled corn on the cob, and giant pretzels, plus fall sweets like apple pastry, pumpkin fudge, and frozen apple cider
Fall Views from the Top
Getting there is part of the fun. Board the iconic Gatlinburg Tram in downtown Gatlinburg for a 2.1-mile ride over the mountains to Ober. Once you arrive, the Sky Village Express takes you to the highest lift-served peak in the Smokies and the Scenic Deck atop Mount Harrison, with sweeping views of the changing leaves. A special colorblind viewer at the summit lets colorblind guests experience the fall colors too.
Beyond Oktoberfest, an Adventure Pass opens up the Mountain Coaster, the Smoky Mountain Bobsled, outdoor tubing, indoor ice skating, native wildlife viewing, and more. Thrill-seekers can try the Cloud Catcher Zipline, the highest zipline in the Smokies, or ride the region’s only lift-served mountain bike park.
Dates & Location
- Dates: September 25 through November 1, 2026
- Where: Ober Gatlinburg, reached by the Gatlinburg Tram from downtown Gatlinburg
- Hours and tickets: Check obergatlinburg.com for current hours and pricing
Planning Tip
Ober recommends buying tickets ahead of time for the best value. Plan a weekend visit if you want the live polka bands, and save the tram ride for a clear day so you get the full show of fall color on the way up.
Source: The Mountain Press and Ober Gatlinburg
