Fall has arrived in Big Bear Lake, bringing changing leaves, cooler mountain weather and the return of one of Southern California’s longest-running Oktoberfest celebrations.
The 56th Annual Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest is underway for 10 consecutive weekends through November 14. Held at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center, the festival brings a taste of Bavaria to the San Bernardino Mountains with German food and imported beers, live bands, traditional dancing, stein-holding competitions, log sawing, games and the always-popular Chicken Dance. This year’s celebration also features bands traveling from Germany and an expanded outdoor seating and dance area.
Beyond Oktoberfest, fall is one of the most scenic times to visit Big Bear. Oak trees, cottonwoods, aspens and dogwoods begin turning shades of gold, amber and red, with peak foliage typically arriving in October.
For a different view of the changing landscape, Alpine Slide Big Bear offers several mountain attractions. The Soaring Eagle provides an aerial perspective above the valley, while the mile-long Mineshaft Coaster lets riders control their own speed as they travel through the forest. On weekends, visitors can take a chairlift to the top of the Alpine Slide before making their way back down the mountain.
Families can also spend time on the miniature golf course and go-kart track. As temperatures drop later in the season, Alpine Slide transitions toward winter activities, including snow tubing.
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