FAQs

The fest is free to enter. We do have a suggested donation at the gate to benefit the Greater River North Business Association. Pre-sale passes are also available on our website for additional perks like a commemorative cup, drink vouchers, bar activations, and more.

Our Main Block Ticket is the easiest way to upgrade your Oktoberfest experience, which includes a commemorative cup and four drink vouchers to use within the participating bars on the block.

You can also grab tickets for special bar activations (e.g. beer flights, cider & donut pairing, Das Boot, games, late night Berlin party) which come with their own perks tied to that experience.

Absolutely! All food and drink vendors on the block accept regular purchases on-site. Pre-sale packages just add some extra perks (like the cup and drink vouchers), but they’re totally optional.

Hubbard Haus Oktoberfest takes place in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, right on Hubbard Street between LaSalle & Clark. (Google Maps)

The street fest runs from noon–9pm. After gates close, the celebration continues inside the River North bars along Hubbard Street, many of which are hosting special Oktoberfest activations and late-night entertainment.

Yes! You’re welcome come-and-go throughout the day.

This is a busy high foot-traffic event, so while leashed, well-behaved pets are allowed, they are not encouraged. Festivals can be stressful for pets, so we recommend leaving them at home.

Nope, Hubbard Haus is an all-ages street fest, and families are welcome. To purchase or consume alcohol, guests must be 21+ with a valid ID.

Parking in River North can be tricky. There’s limited street parking and a few paid garages in the area, but spots fill up quickly. We recommend using public transit or rideshare for the easiest experience.

Yes, it is a very transit-friendly location. The closest “L” stops are the Merchandise Mart station (Brown & Purple Lines), and the Grand station (Red Line). Several CTA bus routes also stop nearby. For the best options and schedules, visit the Chicago Transit Authority website.

Vendors will accept debit/credit cards as well as mobile pay options like Apple Pay and Google Pay. A few may take cash, but we recommend coming prepared to pay by card or phone for the smoothest experience.

Expect all the Oktoberfest classics like bratwursts, Bavarian pretzels, schnitzels, and potato cakes, alongside creative Chicago twists like cider & donut pairings, stout-glazed wings, desserts, and more. Sip on German brews, seasonal ciders, Berlin Mules, and other drinks from the bars along Hubbard Street. See the full menu here.

Yes! Expect a full lineup of entertainment from traditional German bands that set the Oktoberfest vibe to DJs keeping the energy up throughout the evening. View our music lineup here.

Yes, the festival takes place on Hubbard Street, which is flat and fully accessible for wheelchairs and mobility devices.

The fest goes on rain or shine! If the weather turns, just bring your rain gear and keep the celebration rolling under the large beer hall tent. Plus, since Hubbard Haus is a collaboration with the bars on Hubbard Street, you’ll also have the option to duck inside participating venues and enjoy their full indoor amenities as the festivities continue.

For everyone’s safety and enjoyment, please leave these at home:

• Outside food or beverages
• Large bags or coolers
• Weapons of any kind
• Illegal substances
• Glass containers