Kearney Oktoberfest Celebrates 15 Years of Community Tradition

One of Kearney’s favorite fall traditions will return Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, as the Kearney Enrichment Council hosts the 15th Annual Jim Bach Memorial Oktoberfest at Lion’s Park.

The public event, presented by the Kearney Enrichment Council and the City of Kearney, will run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is open to residents, visitors and families looking for live entertainment, local food, shopping and community activities.

Organizers say this year’s festival marks 15 years of bringing neighbors, local businesses and visitors together for a day centered on hometown pride and support for programs that improve the quality of life in Kearney.

Festivalgoers can expect live music throughout the day, a beer garden for guests 21 and older, local food trucks, vendors, an artisan market, family-friendly activities and Oktoberfest-themed contests and games. The Family Fun Zone will include free activities for children and families.

Vendor and food truck applications are now open at tinyurl.com/KECOktoberfest. Space is limited, and organizers said the event is juried, so early applications are encouraged.

The Jim Bach Memorial Oktoberfest is designed as more than a seasonal festival, organizers said. Proceeds and participation help support the Kearney Enrichment Council’s mission to create programs and events that enrich the community.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.

14th Annual Oktoberfest Returns this Fall

Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 4th, when Kearney downtown transforms into a lively festival for its 14th Annual Oktoberfest. From noon until 6 pm, the heart of Kearney will be filled with the sounds of live music, laughter, and the cheers of friendly competition.

Make plans to join friends and neighbors for a day packed with entertainment and excitement, all while supporting local charities such as the Kearney Chamber of Commerce and the Kearney Enrichment Council.

The festivities begin early with the Oktoberfest 5K—Das Bier Run!—from 9 am to noon, inviting runners and walkers to kick off the day with energy. The celebration officially starts at noon, when the Mayor taps the first beer on the Main Stage, followed by a performance from the Studio 320 Dance Team. Throughout the afternoon, enjoy demonstrations from Limitless Karate and KHS Robotics, performances by the KHS Band & Cheer team, and music by The Brian McCarty Band from 1 to 3 pm. Later in the afternoon, The Craftsmen keep the momentum going with live tunes from 3 to 6 pm.

Meanwhile, Washington Street buzzes with activity. From 1 to 5 pm, compete in the Cornhole Tournament hosted by Dunns Guns and Dunns Flooring & Blinds, while 102.7FM KPGZ delivers classic hits throughout the day. Various Oktoberfest competitions—Barmaid Stein Carrying, Keg Toss, and Stein Holding—invite participants to showcase their strength and skills, with sign-ups available at the KEC vendor booth and the Old Firehouse.

All day long, enjoy the Knight's of Columbus Beer Tent offering beer, wine, and seltzers, along with delicious options from food trucks, local vendor booths, and kid-friendly activities like face painting and inflatables spread across Lion's Park and Washington Street. Oktoberfest 2025 in Kearney promises a memorable day of fun, camaraderie, and community spirit. This event is free to the public.

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story.