By Lookout Staff

September 25, 2025 -- Downtown Santa Monica, Inc. (DTSM) will host its first Oktoberfest on Saturday on the Promenade's new Entertainment Zone as part of an ongoing effort to enliven the famous walk street.

Guests can enjoy their drinks along the three-block stretch that will feature Bavarian-inspired décor, with the north block serving as a hub for live entertainment and activities, Downtown officials said.

The free event -- which takes place from 2 to 7 p.m. -- features festive games, themed drinks, live music and other activities.

The program includes Polka dances, Oktoberfest games, themed photo opportunities and a dedicated kids’ play area.

Guests can enjoy German music performed by The Zeitgeist Oktoberfest Band, who will kick off the festivities with lively German music and lead traditional games, event organizers said.

There will also be high-energy sets from Partydoktor Tom und die Sauerkrauts.

Festival goers who purchase a beverage at participating Entertainment Zone locations will receive a complimentary reusable Oktoberfest stein, while supplies last.

Oktoberfest originated in Munich, Germany on October 12, 1810 to celebrate the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria, according to Britannica, which posts articles written by the editors of the encyclopedia.

In 1818, the festival introduced booths serving food and drink, which by the late 20th century "had developed into large beer halls made of plywood, with interior balconies and bandstands."

Those in attendance consume as much as 2 million gallons of beer during the annual festivities.

Businesses participating in Downtown's Entertainment Zone include 1212 Santa Monica, Barney’s Beanery, Cabo Cantina, Casa Martin, Holey Moley, Pickle Pop and Ugo Santa Monica.

Community partners include the German American Club of Santa Monica and local exhibitors such as Fred Fitness and Goethe-Institut Los Angeles.