The Pickerington Oktoberfest: A Celebration of Tradition, Community, and Craft Beer at Combustion Brewery & Taproom

Autumn in Ohio brings with it the beauty of changing leaves, crisp air, and one of the most exciting community events in Pickerington: Oktoberfest. This vibrant festival, held annually, is a two-day celebration of local culture, German traditions, and, of course, fantastic craft beer from the beloved Combustion Brewery & Taproom. As a cornerstone of the community, this event not only brings joy to locals but also attracts visitors from across the region. In this article, we’ll dive into everything that makes the Pickerington Oktoberfest a must-attend event, from the activities and entertainment to the rich history of Combustion Brewery & Taproom.

A Festival Steeped in Tradition

Oktoberfest is a long-standing German tradition that has been embraced worldwide, and Pickerington’s version is no different. Held in late September to early October, this festival celebrates the spirit of togetherness and revelry that is synonymous with the original Munich event. With a focus on local craft beer, live music, and family-friendly activities, the Pickerington Oktoberfest merges traditional German festivities with the unique charm of the community.

This year's event is set to take place on September 27th and 28th, promising a weekend full of fun for all ages. Hosted by the Pickerington Village Association and Combustion Brewery & Taproom, Oktoberfest has grown into one of the most anticipated events in the Fairfield County area ​(Step Out Columbus)​(Visit Fairfield County).

Whether you're a beer enthusiast or simply looking for a good time, the festival offers something for everyone, from traditional German games to a wide array of food trucks and live performances.

The Heart of the Festival: Combustion Brewery & Taproom

At the center of this festive celebration is the Combustion Brewery & Taproom, a local institution that has become the go-to spot for craft beer lovers in Pickerington. Opened in 2017 by Keith Jackson and his team, Combustion Brewery has quickly gained a reputation for its creative brews, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to community involvement.

Combustion Brewery occupies a historic building at 80 West Church Street, right in the heart of Pickerington’s Olde Village district. The building itself adds to the charm of the brewery, blending modern brewing techniques with an old-world atmosphere. This brewery isn't just a place to grab a drink—it's a hub of local culture, frequently hosting live music, trivia nights, and special events like Oktoberfest​(Visit Fairfield County).

A Closer Look at the Brews

One of the highlights of Pickerington Oktoberfest is undoubtedly the beer. Combustion Brewery & Taproom offers a variety of German-style beers brewed specifically for the event, alongside their regular selection of locally crafted brews. For this year’s festival, attendees can expect a lineup of beers that capture the essence of Oktoberfest, such as:

• Oktoberfest Märzen: This traditional German lager is brewed to perfection with a rich, malty flavor and a smooth finish. It’s the quintessential beer for celebrating Oktoberfest and pairs perfectly with the hearty German food available at the festival.
• Pelotonia Pilsner: A crisp, refreshing German-style Pilsner, this beer is light and easy to drink, making it ideal for those who prefer a subtler flavor while enjoying the festivities.
• El Heffe Hefeweizen: This classic German wheat beer is brewed with a hint of banana and clove, providing a refreshing yet complex flavor that complements the autumn season​(Pickerington Online)​(Step Out Columbus).

Beyond the German-inspired beers, Combustion also offers a rotating selection of their signature brews. Whether you're a fan of hop-heavy IPAs, rich stouts, or fruity sours, there’s something to please every palate.

Family Fun and Games

While beer is a central feature of the festival, Pickerington Oktoberfest is a family-friendly event designed for all ages to enjoy. The event organizers have put together a schedule filled with fun activities that everyone can participate in.

One of the most exciting aspects of the festival is the traditional German games, which bring out the competitive spirit in attendees.

Some of the crowd-favorites include:

• Stein-Holding Contest: This iconic Oktoberfest game tests participants' strength and endurance as they attempt to hold a heavy beer stein filled with liquid for as long as possible. The winner gets bragging rights (and maybe a prize).
• Barrel Rolling Contest: Participants roll large wooden barrels across a designated course, competing for the fastest time. This is a favorite among both kids and adults alike.
• Grain Sack Toss: A variation of the popular cornhole game, but with a German twist, the grain sack toss encourages friendly competition in a relaxed environment​(Step Out Columbus).

In addition to these games, there’s also the Beer Mile, a unique race where participants run a mile while stopping every quarter mile to drink a beer. It’s a hilarious and entertaining spectacle, whether you're participating or just watching. This year, there’s even a new relay team option, allowing groups to join forces and tackle the Beer Mile together​(Step Out Columbus)​(Visit Fairfield County).

Live Music and Entertainment

No Oktoberfest would be complete without live music, and Pickerington’s festival delivers with an exciting lineup of performers. Throughout the two-day event, several bands will take the stage, providing the perfect soundtrack for the festivities. From traditional polka to rock and indie tunes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

On Friday, September 27th, the festival kicks off with performances by John Henry and the Rainmakers, followed by the lively tunes of The Chardon Polka Band. The night closes with a set from The Basement Collective, a local band known for their energetic performances​(Pickerington Online).

Saturday’s music lineup is equally impressive, with performances by Jimmy Nichols, River Maps, and the crowd-favorite NorthCoast Mix. The day will wrap up with a high-energy performance by Cassette Mindset, ensuring that the festival ends on a high note​(Step Out Columbus).

Food Trucks and Local Vendors

In addition to the beer and entertainment, Pickerington Oktoberfest features a variety of food trucks and local vendors offering delicious eats and unique products. Festival-goers can indulge in everything from traditional German fare like bratwurst and pretzels to local favorites like BBQ and kettle corn. This year’s food truck lineup includes Schmidt’s Sausage Truck, Bob’s Backyard BBQ, and Liberty Kettle Corn, among others ​(Visit Fairfield County).

For those looking to take home a piece of the festival, local vendors will be selling handcrafted items such as jewelry, artwork, and clothing. It’s a great opportunity to support local businesses while picking up unique souvenirs.

A Community Effort

One of the most admirable aspects of the Pickerington Oktoberfest is its focus on giving back to the community. The event is organized as a fundraiser for three local nonprofit groups, with proceeds from food and beverage sales going to support their efforts. This charitable component adds an extra layer of meaning to the festivities, allowing attendees to have fun while also making a positive impact on the community (Pickerington Online).

Combustion Brewery & Taproom, in particular, is known for its commitment to supporting local causes. Throughout the year, they host a variety of charity events and fundraisers, reinforcing their role as a pillar of the Pickerington community. Oktoberfest is just one of the many ways they give back, but it’s certainly one of the most fun.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss the Pickerington Oktoberfest

Whether you’re a Pickerington local or visiting from out of town, the Pickerington Oktoberfest is a celebration you won’t want to miss. With its perfect blend of traditional German culture and local flair, this two-day festival offers something for everyone. From the excellent craft beer and delicious food to the live music and fun games, Oktoberfest captures the essence of community spirit and autumn festivity.

Moreover, attending Oktoberfest is a chance to experience one of Pickerington’s finest establishments, Combustion Brewery & Taproom. Known for their exceptional brews and community involvement, Combustion has created a space where people can come together to enjoy great beer and even better company.

As the leaves begin to turn and the days grow shorter, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than at Pickerington Oktoberfest. So mark your calendars for September 27-28, grab your friends and family, and head to Combustion Brewery & Taproom for a weekend of fun, food, and festivities. Prost!