Wurst to First
Oktoberfest at The Banks
Friday, Sept. 20, 5–11 p.m.
Nermin Begovic Trio, 5 – 7 p.m.
Naked Karate Girls, 8 – 11 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 21:
Ein Stein, 3 – 6 p.m.
Ethan + Joey + Jada, 7 – 11 p.m.
Lederhosen and Dirndls are encouraged!
You can enjoy plenty of Oktoberfest along the river this weekend!
The new Oktoberfest at the Banks, a two-day celebration, brings the spirit of Germany to Freedom Way.
The Banks transforms into an authentic German Biergarten, complete with long wooden benches and blue-and-white-checkered pennants, creating a festive atmosphere reminiscent of Munich.
“We know how to have a celebration at The Banks,” says Danny Scott, owner of Fishbowl at The Banks and Red Leprechaun. “With the nice weather this weekend you’ll find us in the German Biergarten right out front! German beer, or a Fishbowl, are perfectly acceptable to enjoy during Oktoberfest weekend.”
Along with Fishbowl and Red Leprechaun, the other bars and restaurants participating in Oktoberfest are Holy Grail, Jefferson Social, Killer Queen, The Park, The Stretch and Tin Roof. These venues will offer an array of Oktoberfest beers on tap, along with exclusive food and drink specials. Guests can enjoy their beverages both indoors and outdoors within the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) district, allowing for a festive, open-air experience.
“The Banks is a perfect fit for Oktoberfest because of its central location near the riverfront and downtown,” says Will Hodges, owner of The Park. “The ability to host large crowds makes it a natural gathering place for the community to come together and have fun during the festival!”
Guests will enjoy live entertainment from traditional Bavarian musicians and popular local cover bands in the plaza.
“We’re bringing in the best entertainment lineup, from authentic German bands to live cover bands,” says Hodges.
Additionally, food trucks will be available throughout the event, serving a variety of delicious foods such as pretzels, beer cheese, funnel cakes, and more.
Though Oktoberfest at The Banks is new, huge celebrations are a tradition in the city.
“We Cincinnatians love to find ways to enjoy life,” says Scott.