Overview 
Activities
Food & Drinks
Map & Vendors
Music & Entertainment
Tickets & Schedule
FAQ
Event Survey
Get ready to raise your steins and join us at the Athenaeum’s 18th annual GermanFest, the best Haus party in Indy! This all-ages celebration on October 3 promises a day of fun for everyone, filled with bier, brats, and wiener dogs! Enjoy live music, beers on tap, delicious eats, and unique items to purchase—all with an authentic German flair. Whether you’re savoring a pretzel, cheering on a dachshund race, or holding a stein, there’s something for everyone at GermanFest. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable celebration of German-American Day!
GermanFest is open 11:30 AM to 6:30 PM
Get the Haus Party started early with Prost Pass VIP Early Entry at 11:00 AM
One last prost before we wrap– last call is at 6:00 PM
Come ready for a day full of fun, food, and festivities!
Athenaeum
401 E. Michigan Street
Indianapolis IN 46204
Main Entrance to GermanFest is at the corner of N. East Street and E. Michigan Street.
Street Parking: Check out the link here to Downtown Indy’s guide to parking downtown with an interactive map.
Parking Garage: Block 20 Parking Garage (428 N. East Street) is available for reserved parking at an event rate. Reserve your spot here.
Ride Share: Ride share drop-offs can pull up to East Street for quick access.
Ride your bike to GermanFest and enjoy free valet parking courtesy of Central Indiana Cycling Pedal and Park Valet Bike Service. Bike parking will be available from 10:30 AM to 6:30 PM near the Festival’s main entry gate at the corner of Michigan & East Streets.
Want to be part of the action at GermanFest? We’re looking for volunteers! You’ll get free admission, a t-shirt, a drink voucher, and a chance to see the behind-the-scenes excitement.
Official Opening Ceremonies and Keg Tapping takes place on the Main Stage, presented by DKGR, Downtown Indy Alliance and Charles C Brandt Construction Company beginning at Noon
When & Where: 1PM, 2PM, 3PM– at the Races & Games Arena, presented by Heartland Film
The Wiener Dog races are on of the most popular GermanFest traditions! Come to the Races & Games Arena, presented by Heartland Film, to watch the cute (and fierce) (but mostly cute) competition play out. Each race features 4 heats of 6 doxies following by crowning of the fastest wiener.
RACE SCHEDULE:
- Race 1 – 1:00 PM
- Race 2 – 2:00 PM
- Race 3 – 3:00 PM
When & Where: 11:45 AM to 3:45 PM, with each tour lasting 15 minutes. Tours begin at the Athenaeum doors on Michigan St.
Explore the interior of the Athenaeum with free tours led by Indiana Landmarks docents.
TOUR TIMES:
- 11:45 AM
- 12:15 PM
- 12:45 PM
- 1:15 PM
- 1:45 PM
- 2:15 PM
- 2:45 PM
- 3:15 PM
- 3:45 PM
Add a free tour registration to your ticket to guarantee a spot in the tour! Or register on-site at the Indiana Landmarks table.
When & Where: 1:30 PM at the Races & Games Arena, presented by Heartland Film
Get ready for one of GermanFest’s most delicious traditions– our bratwurst-eating contest! This year we are bringing the action to the Races & Games Arena, presented by Heartland Film, where the excitement will be bigger than ever. Watch contestants battle for bragging rights and a coveted trophy on our giant LED screen, ensuring every bite can be seen by the entire crowd.
Register online on our ticketing page or on-site at the Games Check-In Tent
When & Where: 2:30 PM & 4:00 PM at the Races & Games Arena, presented by Heartland Film
This year, guests will have two opportunities to test their strength and endurance at the Races & Games Arena, presented by Heartland Film. The contestant who can hold their filled steins aloft the longest wins coveted bragging rights for the year.
Register on-site only at the Games Check-In Tent
Sign-ups are free and first-come-first-serve.
The Athenaeum Foundation is proudly hosting Kinderland at GermanFest! This kids’ area will feature face-painting, interactive activities, and hands-on fun!
Kinderland is free and runs for the duration of GermanFest.
What’s a GermanFest without mouthwatering German food? We’re serving up all your favorites– sausages, crispy potato pancakes, warm pretzels, and so much more. Come hungry, because you won’t want to miss a bite!
Feeling thirsty? Pair your meal with a traditional German bier, or explore something new with a canned cocktail or local cider from one of our amazing local vendors.
Rich, flavorful and satisfying – grilled to perfection and served on a bun. Top it off with grilled onions or sauerkraut (optional).
Smoky, snappy European-style sausages, grilled fresh and served on a bun. Grilled onions or sauerkraut optional.
Kartoffelpuffer – Crispy fried potatoes served with apple sauce or sour cream
Sandwich made with seasoned, rotisserie-roasted meat, crisp vegetables, and distinctive creamy sauce.
Large enough to share soft pretzel served warm, with beer cheese and mustard.
A traditional European pull-apart bread, named for its unique “chimney” shape and the steam that comes out of them when they are fresh! Flavors include cinnamon sugar, cookie crumble and peanut crumble.
German-style roasted almonds, pecans, and cashews, roasted fresh all day. Lemon Shake-ups (non-alcoholic).
Hand-dipped ice cream topped with Sprecher fire-brewed craft root bier.
A sweet and tropical virgin piña colada, served in a pineapple!
Treats include German chocolate cake cookies, chocolate chip cookies, Bienenstich (bee sting) cookies, pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies, salted carmel apple cookie bars and sugar cookies.
Various Sweet treats including macarons, linzer cookies and pretzel bread.
German favorites including schnitzel, spatzle and rouladen
Warsteiner Oktoberfest is a limited-edition German import beer, brewed in the traditional Bavarian style, that is known for its biscuity malt richness, mild and smooth taste with a soft, hoppy aftertaste, and a 5.9% ABV. It features hand-selected hops, Munich-type barley malt, and water from the Arnsberg forest, all brewed under the strict German Purity Law. This amber-colored lager is a seasonal offering intended to provide an authentic Oktoberfest experience, with notes of toasted caramel, bready malt, and floral hops.
Warsteiner Pilsener is a pale golden, premium German pilsner beer known for its crisp, clean, and refreshing taste with a balanced, mild hop bitterness and a dry finish. It has a bright, golden-yellow color and a persistent white head. Brewed by Warsteiner brewery since 1753 according to Germany’s Beer Purity Law (Reinheitsgebot), its ingredients are water, barley malt, and hops, with high-quality Bavarian hops and soft brewing water contributing to its distinctive flavor profile.
Warsteiner Dunkel is a classic, dark German lager known for its smooth, dark brown color and malty flavor profile, featuring notes of toast, caramel, bread, and chocolate.Brewed with high-quality ingredients like premium barley, hops, and soft brewing water, it delivers a balanced, refreshing experience with a dry, lingering finish and a subtle hop bitterness. It’s characterized by its easy-drinking nature and is often paired with roasted meats, stews, and pretzels.
Guggman Haus’s Guggenweizen Hefeweizen is a hazy German-style wheat beer known for its traditional German yeast-driven flavors of banana and clove, with a low bitterness and 5.7% ABV. Inspired by the head brewer’s time in Germany, it uses German wheat, barley, hops, and a traditional yeast strain for its signature character.
The Riverside is a hazy New England-style IPA named after the city’s Riverside neighborhood. This juicy IPA features a blend of hops, giving it a punchy citrus flavor and a balanced taste. It’s described as an easy drinker, perfect for outdoor enjoyment, and has won a Bronze Medal at the World Beer Cup.
Canned wine
Canned wine
Pineapple Whip cocktail is described as tart and bright, with a light and refreshing taste
This tastes like a tart, zesty, and refreshing holiday twist on a classic county fair lemon shake-up.
Your favorite Lemon Shake Up cocktail but as a slushie!
Wide range of cider flavors and always gluten-free!
GermanFest uses a drink ticket system for bier and wine. Stop by any of the multiple Bier Ticket tents on-site to purchase drink tickets, and redeem them at the Athenaeum Bier & Wine Trucks, Rathskeller Biergarten, and select beverage partners.
The Athenaeum Bier & Wine Trucks ONLY accept drink tickets. NO cash, NO card.
All other drink vendors at GermanFest will accept other forms of payment (cashless or tap-to-pay options vary among vendors) as well as Drink Tickets.
All transactions are final.
German apparel • Novelties • Books & Literature
Since 1984 the Indiana German Heritage Society has been studying, celebrating, and sharing the state’s deep and wide German heritage which predates statehood. IGHS will have its traveling exhibit Wegweiser: German Place Names in Indiana. IGHS will also have for sale many titles on Geerman-American and Indiana German history and culture. Also on sale will be German themed tee shirts, buttons, flags, and drinkware.
Official Athenaeum GermanFest shirt • T-shirts • Hats • Indiana/Midwest themed items
Midwest Shirt Company is a family-owned and operated screen printing and embroidery shop based in Westfield, Indiana. Founded in 2013, we specialize in custom-designed apparel, signage, branding, and graphic design services for businesses, schools, and organizations. With a background in design and advertising education, our team is dedicated to bringing your creative visions to life with quality craftsmanship and personalized service.
Candles • Prints & posters • Shirts • Stickers • Gifts
Outdoor adventure prints & other goods, candles, tees, bandanas, stickers, etc. Local, Indiana, State Park & National Park
Membership • Wellness • Personal Training
The Athenaeum Turner Gymnasium is an independent nonprofit community fitness center operated in the Athenaeum. With affordable membership rates, state-of-the-art equipment, friendly staff, group fitness classes, and certified personal trainers, the Turner Gym is your go-to for a sound mind and a sound body.
Gold filled and Sterling Silver chain and charms
Love Links by Rae is a custom fit, welded, jewelry experience. We offer multiple different chain and charm options in gold, silver, and rose gold to turn into necklaces, bracelets, anklets, and rings. We weld the pieces on-site after we fit the jewelry perfectly on our customers. We are known for our customer service, quality, and guarantee. We absolutely love helping create pieces and memories that will last the test of time!
Kurt Vonnegut Books • T-shirts • Board Games • Mugs
The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library champions the literary, artistic, and cultural contributions of the late writer, artist, teacher, and Indianapolis native Kurt Vonnegut. The library and museum serve as a cultural and educational resource unique to the nation.
Stickers • Notebooks • Washi tape, Suncatchers • Tote bags • Bookmarks • Keychains
Pineberry Paper is your go-to destination for whimsical stationery goods and cute gifts! We bring a touch of charm and creativity to your everyday life with our wide range of handmade stickers, notebooks, notepads, washi tape, bookmarks, suncatchers, and keychains.
Metal art • Locally themed signs • Keychains • Magnets
Specializing in custom and creative metal art and products celebrating the city of Indianapolis and state of Indiana as well as the crypidsamd creatures that hide in the shadows.
Prints • Posters • Stickers
My name is Jean Elise and I make prints, posters, stickers and stationery that feature Indianapolis and Indiana: highlighting parks, festivals and local businesses. My “Kitty Coktails” and “Craft Beer Puppies” prints are also super popular!
Hand-blown and hand-crafted solid forms • Fused and slumped glass • Torch/flameworked jewelry • Seasonal and unique gift items • Interior decor items
GAI creates a collaborative Glass Community to support emerging and established Glass artists; host fun and interesting educational art glass business and artistic instructional events; increase appreciation and understanding of the Glass Arts; and promote Glass-related opportunities in Indiana and in the US.
Sculptural and container candles • Wax melts • Ambiance mists
Mélange du Jour is a women-owned, family-run fragrance studio inviting you to slow down, honor where you’ve been, and feel the romance of where you are. — About Us
Mélange du Jour was born in a small kitchen— it began as a personal hands-on journey to piece together a sense of self through life’s unexpected turns. What started as rediscovering myself slowly grew into a shared passion. Today, it is a family-made celebration of life’s layered moments and honoring feelings.
Together, my mother, my sister, and I pour intention into every piece we create. Each piece is hand-poured with resilience, love, and the belief that even the smallest moment can hold meaning. We believe in honoring the full mosaic of life—the joy, the heartbreak, the quiet in-between.
Our hope is that Mélange du Jour— “mix of the day” — becomes a part of your own story—a pause, a deep breath, a gentle reminder to honor where you’ve been and fully feel the beauty of where you are. An invitation to do just that: to exhale the past, settle into the present, and find a moment of peace.
Live embroidery on-site • Bag tags • Tote bags • Socks • Gifts
Live on site custom embroidery!
Local raw honey • Infused honey • Herbal tea • Beeswax • Lip balm • Tinctures
We offer local Raw and unfiltered, honey and honey products naturally sourced, including honey, herbal tea, and Bee products
Docent-Led Building Tours
Sign up for a FREE building tour of the Athenaeum during GermanFest!
Offering pet-friendly giveaways and information at the Dachshund Dash Arena
Uncle Bill’s Pet Centers is a 3rd generation family-owned Indiana pet store proudly serving local families and their pets since 1985. For over 40 years, our mission has been to connect people with pets while providing the products, knowledge, and personal service needed to help animals thrive. With locations throughout Indiana, Uncle Bill’s offers pet food, treats, toys, supplies, grooming products, small animals, birds, reptiles, fish, puppies, and kittens. Our commitment to animal welfare, responsible pet care, and community involvement has earned recognition throughout the pet industry, including the 2024 Pet Advocate of the Year Award from the Pet Advocacy Network and the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award from the World Pet Association. As a USDA-licensed pet business, we take animal care seriously and proudly support the communities we serve. We’re excited to celebrate GermanFest and invite you to stop by, meet some furry friends, and say hello!
Pet First Aid • Vet Information
VCA is a family of hometown animal hospitals committed to making a positive impact for pets, people, and our communities. Our medicine supports happy, healthy lives from everyday wellness care to advanced specialty cases, and every step between.
Free Filtered Water Refill Station
Serving Indianapolis homeowners with water softener installation, filtration, maintenance, and repair.
Handmade pottery • Mugs • Bowls • Plates • Vases • Oil lamps
Beautiful pottery made by a local artist.
A nonprofit hobby club for Volkswagen enthusiasts. Come check out some vintage VW’s and learn about the club!
A veteran of the Indianapolis music scene, Dianna performs her accordion in Indianapolis, the midwest, and beyond. A 2017 Creative Renewal Fellow and a five time Indiana Arts Commission Grant winner, she loves performing European folk music out in the community, sharing her love of traditional folk music.
die Fledermäuschen Tanzgruppe (or “the little bats dance group” in English; named after the Fledermaus Waltz) is the folk dance & cultural performance extension of the German American Klub of Indianapolis. The group performs year-round at festivals, schools, and cultural events throughout the state of Indiana.
DJ Helicon hails from Indianapolis and has been entertaining crowds of all types since 2001. Over the years he has DJ’d everything from private events to playing in front of large crowds for events such as the Super Bowl and WNBA All-Star game. Known for his eclectic sets, Helicon’s love of a wide variety of genres and artists comes through in his performances. Follow him on Instagram @djhelicon or visit his website for more info.
DysFUNKtion Brass started in 2015 as a wild idea for a completely unique ensemble to compete in an Indianapolis battle of original bands. The crew progressed pretty well through that experience and penned an incredible collection of original music and brass-line covers. We decided that this ensemble had a message to deliver and we wanted to scratch out our own spot in the Midwest music scene. Since then the band has been performing regularly at bars, restaurants, street festivals, and corporate events around Indiana and Ohio.
The Fort Wayne Tänzer is a vibrant local German dancing troupe based in Fort Wayne, Indiana, bringing lively performances to the community since 2012. Our troupe celebrates German culture through energetic and colorful dance routines, showcasing traditional moves and music. We’re passionate about sharing the joy of German dance with audiences of all ages.
Hot Horns is a professional brass ensemble built to entertain, educate and connect with audiences of all ages. Led by trumpeter, Glen Johnson, they perform a wide range of music from classical favorites to modern, high energy arrangements.
The Liederkranz German Band was originally founded by Jeff Westfall as the “Liederkranz Brass Band” in 2014. Since its inception, the band has established itself as one of the premier musical ensembles for authentic German culture in Indianapolis.
From Bock season to Weihnachtssaison (Christmas season), the Liederkranz German Band plays at some of the best German-American celebrations across central Indiana. The Liederkranz German Band is an all-volunteer ensemble.
Indy Polkamtion, led by Bob Klemen, affectionately known as “Polka Bob,” is a lively polka band with 30 years of experience igniting festive spirits with classic polka tunes. Rooted in Slovenian and Macedonian heritage, Polka Bob’s journey began at age six, studying accordion under 1950s TV musician Walter Brown. The band’s polished performances have graced prestigious events, including Indiana’s Bicentennial Celebration and gatherings for state dignitaries. Known for their upbeat renditions and joyful energy, Indy Polkamtion is dedicated to the timeless tradition of polka music, ensuring every performance is a celebration that gets the crowd moving.
Vonnegut Hardware is an Indianapolis indie rock/alternative group featuring lead singer/songwriter Jim Rawlinson, Justin Avery on guitar, Jeff Dawes on bass/vocals, and Paul Moore on drums. You can find their current releases on Radio Cake Records.
Prost Pass VIP Ticket | $60* (includes admission, early event entry at 11:00 AM, 1 stein, 1 stein fill, access to VIP Lounge with complimentary water & soda)
General Admission – Adult | $20* advance & $28* day-of
General Admission – Youth (Ages 4–12) | $10* advance & $10* day-of
General Admission – Child (Ages 3 & Under) | Free, ticket required
*Price does not include service fees
GermanFest is a celebration of German-American Day (officially on October 6) hosted at the Athenaeum in downtown Indianapolis. Enjoy German-inspired food, drinks, music, Dachshund races, competitions, and family-friendly activities and fun!
We’d love your help! Volunteers are essential to making GermanFest a success. Sign up to volunteer for a variety of roles, from helping with admissions to supporting activities. You’ll get free admission to the festival, a special volunteer shirt, and our gratitude! Sign up at the link below!
GermanFest takes place on Saturday, October 3, from 11:30 AM to 6:30 PM (with VIP entry at 11:00 AM), at the Athenaeum. Event entry is at Michigan/East St.
Tickets can be purchased in advance online or at the gate (if available). We highly recommend purchasing ahead of time to secure your ticket. Advance adult tickets are $20, with a day-of admission price of $28, so buy your tickets here to save time and guarantee entry!
Your ticket grants you access to the festival grounds, live music, Dachshund Dash, competitions, and activities. Food, drinks, and certain activities like the Prost Pass early entrance are available for an additional charge.
The festival opens at 11:30 AM for general admission. Prost Pass (VIP) holders can enter at 11:00 AM for early access.
There are metered street parking spots and nearby surface lots. For reserved parking, use the Block 20 Parking Garage at 428 N. East Street (available at an event rate). Reserve your spot here. Free valet bike parking is also available on-site.
Yes! GermanFest is great for all ages. There are crafts and face painting for kids as well as live music and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy.
Yes! Dogs are welcome outdoors at GermanFest. Please use our pet relief area for any needed breaks and remember to clean up after them. Dogs must remain on a leash at all times. Owners are responsible for any and all liability associated with their pet’s presence and behavior.
We have an exciting lineup of food vendors offering German specialties like sausages, pretzels, as well as local brews, cider, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages. Check out the full food & drinks lineup on our Food & Drinks tab.
No, outside food and beverages are not permitted. We’ve got plenty of delicious options available from our vendors!
GermanFest is a rain or shine event! Be prepared for the weather and keep an eye on your email for any schedule changes in case of severe weather.
Yes! The Athenaeum and festival grounds are mostly accessible, and there are accessible restrooms available. There are a few spots that might be difficult to navigate. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask our staff.
We recommend bringing your ticket (printed or digital), a valid ID, sunscreen, and cash/card for food, drinks, and activities. You can also bring your stein from GermanFest last year for discounted refills!
Portable toilets are placed on the Cleveland Street near the Biergarten entrance, and at other locations throughout the venue. Additionally, restrooms are available on the first floor of the Athenaeum, located through the Coat Check doors or in the Rathskeller. If someone needs the elevator, it is located at the Rathskeller entrance and goes to the first floor.
Yes! Test your skills in the Sausage Eating Competition or the Stein Holding Contest, and cheer on the pups at the Dachshund Dash! Spots are limited! Check the event schedule for times.
Yes! Your wristband allows you to leave and re-enter throughout the day, re-entry points are on the intersection of New Jersey St and Mass Ave, and on Cleveland St near the Races & Games Arena, presented by Heartland Film. Be sure to finish your drinks before leaving; alcoholic beverages are not permitted outside the festival grounds.
If you’ve made a reservation at The Rathskeller during GermanFest, head to our re-entry point on the corner of New Jersey Street and Mass Ave or our main entrance. Make your reservation here to get your spot inside this Indianapolis treasure! Please note, Festival entry is not included. Guests who dine at the Rathskeller will exit the Festival upon the conclusion of their meal but are welcome to purchase GermanFest admission and re-enter at our main entry gate if they wish to enjoy the Festival.
If you plan to dine at the Rathskeller without attending GermanFest, you do not need a ticket. If you plan to attend GermanFest before or after your meal at the Rathskeller, a separate GermanFest ticket is required for entry into the Biergarten and the rest of the festivities.
Yes, tables and chairs will be available throughout the festival grounds for guests to use. No need to bring your own chairs, as large items will not be permitted.
We’ve got live music on multiple stages, featuring everything from polka to brass bands, most with a German flair. There will also be cultural performances, games, and of course the iconic Dachshund races! Head over to our Tickets & Schedule tab for the full lineup.
If you have any additional questions, feel free to reach out to us at boxoffice@athenaeumindy.org.
No smoking or vaping is permitted within the boundaries of the festival.
Steins will be available for sale at all Bier Tickets tents, as well as at the Athenaeum tent.
A GermanFest souvenir stein is $14. Purchase your stein as a combo with the first fill for even greater savings!
We would love to hear from you. Take our quick survey and share your experience to help us make next year’s GermanFest even bigger and better!