MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) Oktoberfest is known today for German food, music, beer and community celebrations, but its origins can be traced to a royal wedding in Bavaria more than 200 years ago.
The first Oktoberfest grew out of the marriage of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig, who later became King Ludwig I, and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. The couple married Oct. 12, 1810, and the occasion became a major public celebration in Munich.
Five days after the wedding, a horse race was held in the couple’s honor on Oct. 17. Munich residents were invited to take part in the festivities, helping turn what could have been a royal celebration into an event for the broader community.
The celebration included much more than the horse race. Munich was decorated for the occasion, while food and drinks were provided in large quantities. Historical accounts describe thousands of sausages and bread rolls being distributed, along with cheese and mutton. Beer and wine were also served, and music was a prominent part of the festivities.
The popularity of the celebration helped establish a tradition that continued in subsequent years. An agricultural show was added in 1811, and Oktoberfest gradually evolved into a much larger festival known for Bavarian food, music, beer halls, amusement rides and other attractions.
Although the original festivities took place in October, much of Munich’s modern Oktoberfest is held in September, when the weather is generally warmer. The festival retained its Oktoberfest name and remains closely associated with Bavarian culture.
Oktoberfest Comes to Mitchell Main Street
More than two centuries after Munich residents gathered for the original celebration, Mitchell will put its own spin on the Oktoberfest tradition Saturday, Sept. 19.
The sixth annual Mitchell Oktoberfest, organized by Mitchell Main Street & Beyond, is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on South Main Street.
The 2026 celebration will feature German-themed food, drinks, music and games. Activities listed by organizers include stein-holding and keg races, musical chairs for children and adults, pumpkin throwing, a best-dressed competition and strongman contests.
Children ages 4 through 12 can also participate in a pedal pull. Registration begins at 1 p.m., with pulls starting at 2:30 p.m.
One of the day’s other attractions will be the wiener dog races, also beginning at 2:30 p.m. Organizers have separate races for dachshunds and dogs weighing 25 pounds or less. The $10 dog registration fee serves as a fundraiser for a local pet shelter.
Oktoberfest will share downtown with the 301 Rodz & Ridez Car Show. The three-day automotive event runs Sept. 18-20, with Saturday’s car show taking place on Main Street. The City of Mitchell lists Oktoberfest and the car show together as a special event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
The combination will bring two celebrations to downtown Mitchell at the same time — one centered on a centuries-old Bavarian tradition and the other showcasing cars and automotive culture.
Additional information about the celebration, including competition and dog-race registration details, is available through Mitchell Main Street & Beyond. The City of Mitchell also maintains an official calendar listing for the event.
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