From German Märzen (Oktoberfest) bier and Polka bands to Hammerschlagen and Lederhosen contests, Oktoberfest 2023 at Buffalo Creek Brewing (BCB) has it all!  One of Chicagoland’s biggest Oktoberfest’s is kicking it up yet another notch, with three days of rowdy revelry aiming to build on last year’s record-breaking event that attracted 5,000-plus.   All two acres of BCB in historic downtown Long Grove will be alive and buzzing with the sights and sounds of Oktoberfest, September 29th through October 1st.   The all-ages, no admission fee event features indoor and outdoor festivities throughout the brewery’s Bavarian-themed taproom, sprawling backyard biergartens, and decked-out Oktoberfest tent.  Besides lots of German beer hand-crafted by BCB owner/brewmaster Mike Marr, the free festival features traditional Oktoberfest food, music, and gaming.  
 
“For those who can’t make it to Munich, we’re the next best thing!” exclaimed Mike.  “This event has grown into one of Chicago’s biggest Oktoberfest celebrations and we’re proud to be the most authentic too.”
 
Headlining the outdoor mainstage over the weekend will be No Pants Polka Band playing authentic Oompah music from 6 pm to 9 pm Friday and Saturday.  Meanwhile, guests can enjoy ongoing Oktoberfest games and contests in and around the giant Oktoberfest tent, such as: Stein Holding, Hammerschlagen (nail driving), Horseshoes, Beer Pong, Flip Cup, Bags, and the all-new Best Legs in Lederhosen and Dirndl contests where contestants will battle it out for Best Legs bragging rights and specially engraved stein trophies.   To fuel the competitive drive, authentic Oktoberfest foods from Rep’s Place will be offered as well as BCB’s extensive menu of German craft beer highlighted by the featured Oktoberfest brew, the Big Ludwigski (a German Märzen “Oktoberfest Bier” with huge amounts of Munich malts, subtle hints of noble hops, and a clean finish).  For the kids and non-drinkers, Buffalo Creek Brewing offers hand-crafted, non-alcoholic choices like freshly made ginger beer along with other tantalizing craft sodas.