OB Oktoberfest 2026 — Friday Oct 9 & Saturday Oct 10
Ocean Beach's beachfront beer garden returns for its 20-plus-year run: steins, live music, silly contests and a sunset over the Pacific. Here's everything you need before you go.
Checked October 4, 2026 against the organizer's site and the Ocean Beach MainStreet Association calendar. Details can change — confirm at oboktoberfest.com.
WhenFri Oct 9, 4:00–11:30 PM
Sat Oct 10, about noon–11:30 PM
WhereBeach lot at the foot of Newport Ave, by the OB Pier (5099 Newport Ave, 92107)
Age21+ only — bring a valid photo ID
TicketsGeneral admission at the gate; VIP online
Parking tip: the beach lots usually fill early on festival days. Park at the free Robb Field lot (2525 Bacon St) and walk about 15 minutes, or bike, bus or rideshare in.
What's happening each day
Friday, October 9 — Locals Night
- Gates at 4 PM, with 2-for-1 beers until 5 PM — arrive early for the best deal.
- The "Local Legends" stein-holding contest.
- Live music into the evening; the party runs until 11:30 PM.
Saturday, October 10 — the big day
- 2-for-1 beers until 1 PM.
- Afternoon beach party (about noon–5 PM) with the classic contests: stein holding, pretzel toss and brat eating.
- A Y2K-themed neon party in the evening — this year's theme is a throwback to the 2000s, so dig out the frosted tips.
The event raises money for local causes: organizers say it has donated more than $850,000 to Ocean Beach organizations over the years.
Official site & VIP tickets
All OB events
Getting there and parking
- Robb Field (free, large): 2525 Bacon St. The best bet when the beach lots are full. It's a flat walk of about 15 minutes to the beach.
- Street parking: check posted signs carefully. Ocean Beach streets have sweeping days and time limits, and tickets are common on event weekends.
- Bus: MTS buses connect Ocean Beach with the Old Town Transit Center, where you can transfer from the Trolley. Check sdmts.com for current routes and times.
- Rideshare or bike: the easiest choice if you're drinking. Expect slow traffic on Sunset Cliffs Blvd and West Point Loma Blvd in the evening.
More detail on every lot is on our Ocean Beach parking guide.
What to bring
- Valid photo ID — everyone must be 21 or older.
- A layer: it gets cool and damp on the beach after sunset, even in October.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses for Saturday afternoon.
- Comfortable shoes you don't mind getting sandy.
- Leave dogs at home — head to Dog Beach with them another day.
Make a day of it in OB
Come early and walk Newport Avenue, OB's main street of antique shops, surf shops and cafes. Grab food before or after at one of the Ocean Beach restaurants, or catch the sunset from the seawall south of the pier. Staying the night? See where to stay in Ocean Beach.
OB Oktoberfest FAQ
When is OB Oktoberfest 2026?
Friday, October 9 from 4:00 to 11:30 PM, and Saturday, October 10 from about noon to 11:30 PM.
Where is OB Oktoberfest held?
On the beachfront lot at the foot of Newport Avenue next to the Ocean Beach Pier (5099 Newport Ave, San Diego, CA 92107).
Is OB Oktoberfest 21 and over?
Yes. The event is 21+ only, so bring a valid photo ID.
How do I get tickets?
General admission tickets are sold at the gate on the day. VIP tickets, which include a souvenir one-liter mug with two beers, a VIP area and restrooms, and priority re-entry, are sold through the official site, oboktoberfest.com.
Where should I park for OB Oktoberfest?
The beach lots fill early. The free Robb Field lot at 2525 Bacon St is the best backup, about a 15-minute walk away. Rideshare, bike or bus are easier still.
Can I bring my dog?
No. It's a crowded 21+ beer festival, so leave pets at home.
Is the OB Pier open during Oktoberfest?
No. The Ocean Beach Pier has been closed since October 2023 while the City works on its replacement. You can still see it from the beach.