Oktoberfest 2026 - Gorton Center - Lake Forest, IL
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Oktoberfest 2026

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Oktoberfest 2026

PROST! RAISE A GLASS WITH US

Sat, October 17
6:00 pm - 10:00 pm

people dressed in traditional German clothing in an Oktoberfest tent drinking beer with friends
Purchase

Time

Sat, October 17, 2026 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm

Location

Gorton Center
400 East Illinois Road Lake Forest, IL 60045

Sponsors

Celebrate Oktoberfest 2026 with Gorton

Gather your crew for Oktoberfest 2026, one of our favorite fall traditions. When the sun goes down, our outdoor tent comes alive for adults 21 and over. Expect German-inspired food, cold beer, live music and long tables full of neighbors.

First time joining us? Come hungry – your ticket covers food and drinks all evening. Grab a mallet and try Hammerschlagen, the nail-driving game that draws a crowd every year. Every ticket also supports the classes, performances and community programs we share all year.

Bringing the kids? Start the evening early at our Fall Family Happy Hour, with crafts, Left Bank hot dogs and fall fun beside the tent.

Oktoberfest 2026 Tickets

Main Event tickets are $85 per person. Coming with friends? Grab a four-pack for $300 and save $10 per ticket.

Your ticket includes:

  • Food from The Gallery throughout the evening (view the menu)
  • Beer and other beverages
  • Live entertainment
  • Oktoberfest games and festivities, including Hammerschlagen

At check-in, each Main Event guest receives a wristband for food and beverage service inside the tent.

What Is Hammerschlagen?
Hammerschlagen is a classic Oktoberfest tradition with a simple goal. Players take turns driving a nail into a wooden stump using the narrow end of a hammer. It’s easy to learn, fun to watch and surprisingly competitive. Cheering from the sidelines is encouraged. You’ll find Hammerschlagen at the 21+ Oktoberfest Event only.

people enjoying oktoberfest under the tent at Gorton Center

Sponsor Oktoberfest 2026

Want to put your business in front of an engaged local audience? Our sponsorship and underwriting opportunities offer great visibility and a meaningful way to support the arts. For more information, contact Ann Kiesling at 847.234.6060 or annk@nullgortoncenter.org.

You belong here.

#GortonOktoberfest #OktoberfestLakeCounty

By purchasing a ticket and attending Oktoberfest, you acknowledge and accept the risks associated with participation in Gorton Center programs and release Gorton, the City of Lake Forest, and related parties from all claims.

Thank you to our friends at Mariani for the festive fall decor!

Gorton Center is a premier destination for outstanding cultural and performing arts experiences serving the residents of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and the surrounding region. As a proud nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, we are dedicated to enriching our community through an array of exceptional events and programs.

At Gorton Center, we believe in the transformative power of the arts. Our vibrant calendar is brimming with diverse offerings, ensuring there's always something to captivate and inspire you. From live music performances that resonate with your soul to comedy nights that leave you in stitches, we curate events to suit all tastes and interests. Our dedication to quality and community engagement means you can expect only the best in cultural entertainment.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or a visitor, there’s always something extraordinary waiting for you. Come be a part of our community, where every event is an opportunity to connect, enjoy, and be inspired.

Gorton offers financial assistance and flexible payment options to individuals who may be unable to afford standard program fees. This support ensures that everyone has the opportunity to participate in meaningful learning and cultural enrichment experiences. Applications are reviewed based on demonstrated financial need.

Gorton Center will take and may use photos and videos from this event for its promotional purposes. Your attendance indicates your consent to the above.

Details

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