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Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest FAQs

​​What are the dates and times of each event, and when does the music start?

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Friday, September 18

5:00 PM – Oktober Pub Crawl (Location: TBD)

 

Kick off the weekend with our festive Oktober Pub Crawl! Traditional Oktoberfest tunes begin right away, with a lively Chicken Dance performance and contests at 6:00 PM.

 

Guests are encouraged to dress in traditional German attire (lederhosen, dirndls, etc.). Your ticket includes light appetizers, beer and wine selections, contests, dancing, and a wristband to visit participating local restaurants and shops throughout the city.

 

This is a family-friendly event.

 

Saturday, September 19

Live music begins at 4:30 PM.

 

Sunday, September 20

Live music begins at 1:30 PM.

 

Is this a family-friendly event?

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Yes! Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest is an all-ages, family-friendly celebration.

 

We welcome guests of all ages. Valid photo ID is required for guests 21+ who wish to purchase alcoholic beverages, in accordance with Washington State Liquor Laws.

 

What should I bring to Oktoberfest (September 19–20?

 

  • Blanket

  • Sunglasses

  • Sunblock and a hat

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Your friends and family

  • A festive spirit and love of community

  • A generous attitude to support local vendors through food purchases, merchandise, and raffle participation

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What can’t I bring into Oktoberfest?

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  • No outside alcohol

  • No cannabis

  • No illegal substances

  • No shade umbrellas or shade tents

  • No fireworks

  • No firearms

  • No drones

  • No tall or inflatable chairs

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Will there be food? What kind of food will be available?

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Yes! A variety of food vendors and food trucks will offer delicious options for the whole family, including kid-friendly and gluten-free choices. Water and soda will be available throughout the event.

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For adults 21+, we will offer a selection of Oktoberfest beer, wine, cider, and spirits in designated beverage areas.

 

The full vendor lineup will be posted prior to the event.

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Can I bring my own food and beverages?

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To support the Quarterdeck and food vendors brought in to support the 2 day event at the Quarterdeck, outside food is not encouraged.

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Where can I park?

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Paid parking is available in the South and North lots of the Des Moines Marina.

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Street parking on 6th and 7th Avenues is also available (please allow extra time for walking).

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A shuttle will run throughout the Marina and along 6th and 7th Avenues from 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM, making it easy and convenient to get around.

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Is there a shuttle?

Yes

 

Yes! A complimentary shuttle will circulate throughout the Marina and nearby parking areas from 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM

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Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest – Additional FAQs & Policies

 

Is Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest ADA Accessible?

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Yes. Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest is ADA accessible.

 

There are a limited number of accessible parking spaces available throughout the city parking areas. Guests requiring accommodations are encouraged to arrive early.

 

What are the bathroom facilities like?

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Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest provides clean, sanitary, and well-maintained portable restrooms to accommodate guests throughout the event.

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Can I smoke?

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Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest is a non-smoking event.

 

Smoking is not permitted inside the Quarterdeck or within Oktober Pub Crawl properties. Guests may exit and reenter as necessary; however, alcohol is not allowed outside designated fenced areas.

 

What happens if the weather is bad?

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Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest is an outdoor event and will take place rain or shine.

 

This is the Pacific Northwest — we’re prepared for beautiful sunshine or classic Northwest weather. Please dress accordingly, as there is no covered seating available.

 

Any final words of wisdom?

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Every guest deserves to enjoy Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest comfortably — whether seated or standing. Please be respectful of others’ space and celebrate responsibly.

 

If you experience or witness harassment or inappropriate behavior, please notify a volunteer or event staff member immediately so the situation can be addressed.

 

Event Policies

 

Photo Policy

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By entering Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest, you acknowledge that you may be photographed, filmed, or recorded.

 

By attending, you grant the promoter the unrestricted, perpetual right to use your likeness, image, or recordings without compensation for broadcast, promotion, or exhibition in any medium.

 

Official Refund Policy

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All ticket sales are final. No refunds will be issued.

 

Lost or stolen tickets will not be replaced.

 

Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest and the Oktober Pub Crawl will take place rain or shine. Artists, entertainment, and schedules are subject to change without notice.

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Unforeseen Circumstances

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Refunds will not be issued due to circumstances beyond the event’s control, including but not limited to:

 

  • Local or national weather conditions

  • Natural disasters

  • Waiting in lines

  • Parking challenges

  • Road closures

  • Traffic conditions

 

Oktober Pub Crawl Policy

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A ticket grants admission to Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest events, not to a specific performer or artist.

 

Entertainment and schedules are subject to change without notice. Artist cancellations are not grounds for a refund.

 

Grounds for No Entry or Removal

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Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest security and event staff reserve the right to refuse entry or remove any ticket holder without refund for reasons including, but not limited to:

 

  • Disorderly behavior

  • Intoxication

  • Venue capacity limitations

  • Violation of security or event policies

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© 2026 Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest at the Quarterdeck in Des Moines, WA

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