Gardner’s Oktoberfest Marks 20 Years of Community, Tradition, and Fun

Downtown Gardner to host milestone celebration on Saturday, September 27, 2025

Gardner is raising its steins a little higher this year. The 20th Annual Oktoberfest “Party in the Street” returns to Downtown Gardner on Saturday, September 27, 2025, bringing a full day of beer, food, music, and community spirit.

What started in 2006 as a lively celebration organized by Moon Hill Brewing has grown into the city’s largest annual event and official city-wide holiday, drawing more than 6,000 people each year. Now proudly presented by the Gardner Festival Committee with continued sponsorship from Moon Hill Brewing and Gardner Ale House, the 20th anniversary promises to be a milestone celebration, honoring two decades of neighbors coming together to eat, drink, and enjoy one another’s company.

“Oktoberfest has always been about more than beer,” said Rick Walton, owner of Moon Hill Brewing and Gardner Ale House. “It’s about community. For 20 years, we’ve seen families, friends, and neighbors fill the streets of Gardner to celebrate together. That’s what makes this tradition so special.”

A Full Day of Festivities

● Run for a Beer 5K (10:00 AM): The day kicks off with runners racing through Gardner’s streets before raising a celebratory pint.
● Keg Tapping Ceremony (11:30 AM): Accompanied by traditional German folk music from the Hofbrahaus Bavarians.
● Steinholding Competition (1:00 PM): Strong men and women test their grit in this officially sanctioned contest.
● Chair Luge (2:00 PM): The city’s most daring tradition returns for its 15th year, with teams racing homemade wheeled chairs downhill toward Beauregard Liquors. This year’s theme? Beetlejuice! Expect costumes, antics, and a few “human bumpers” to keep things lively.
● Live Music (from 3:00 PM): Performances by Chris Fitz, Disco Lemonade, and Midnight Riders cap off the celebration with dancing and nostalgia.
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy authentic German fare—sausages, sauerkraut, pretzels, schnitzel—alongside family-friendly activities, games, and a diverse lineup of local food vendors. Of course, Moon Hill Brewing’s Oktoberfest Lager will be flowing, along with a wide selection of craft brews.

A Community Tradition, 20 Years Strong

The Gardner Festival Committee has worked tirelessly to ensure that Oktoberfest continues to thrive as a true community event. With support from local businesses, sponsors, and city partners, the celebration reflects the pride and resilience of Gardner. For the second year in a row, GFA Federal Credit Union is the Premiere Sponsor.
“Oktoberfest is a chance for us to show what makes Gardner special,” said Rebecca Marois from the Gardner Festival Committee. “It’s about neighbors greeting neighbors, kids playing in the streets, and people of all ages making memories together. To celebrate 20 years and to see more than 6,000 people turn out each year is a true honor.”

Event Details

What: 20th Annual Oktoberfest “Party in the Street”
When: Saturday, September 27, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Where: Downtown Gardner, outside Moon Hill Brewing Co. & Gardner Ale House
Admission: Free and open to the public | Rain or shine

About Gardner Festival Committee

The Gardner Festival Committee, a committee of the Greater Gardner Chamber of Commerce, is dedicated to strengthening community ties through vibrant public events. From Oktoberfest to summer concerts, the Committee works with local businesses, sponsors, and volunteers to bring Gardner together.

About Moon Hill Brewing & Gardner Ale House

Founded in 2006, Moon Hill Brewing and Gardner Ale House is a downtown brewpub that serves as Gardner’s “third place” — a welcoming spot beyond home and work where people come together. With 14+ house-made beer, a menu rooted in fresh ingredients, and an atmosphere that balances comfort with creativity, the Ale House is a well known regional destination.

Media Contact
Gardner Festival Committee
Rebecca Marois
rmarois@gardnerma.com
978-632-1780