Oksoberfest: An alcohol-free celebration

Oksoberfest: An alcohol-free celebration

September 20

6–9 p.m.

$20-35

21+

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Overview

Willkommen zum Oksoberfest! Lincoln Park Zoo and Chicago AF are thrilled to host the alcohol-free and adults-only version of Germany’s classic Oktoberfest celebration.

Tap into the tastes of German tradition at Oksoberfest! To serve the fast-growing alcohol-free community while forwarding the zoo’s mission of inclusivity, Lincoln Park Zoo is proud to host the largest non-alcoholic beer festival in the Midwest, Oksoberfest! Wander through the zoo and sample non-alcoholic beers, wines, and craft cocktails as you snack on brats and giant pretzels with mustard flights. Dance with hundreds of new friends to the sounds of a live polka band. Come for the mocktails—stay for the community. Prost!

Ticket information

This event will feature:

  • A polka band performing live on the zoo’s Main Mall
  • A wide variety of non-alcoholic drinks to sample, included with your ticket
  • Concessions for purchase, including giant pretzels and wurst plus everyday favorites
  • Lawn games and plenty of spaces to lounge and laugh with friends
  • After-hours viewing of Lincoln Park Zoo’s gardens and animal habitats

Food and additional non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase all night.

A selection of 0.0% ABV beverages—and none exceeding 0.5% ABV—will be available at the zoo this evening.

Did you know your participation makes an impact? Every ticket purchase helps the zoo stay free, open, and accessible for all, 365 days a year!

FAQs

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What are the age restrictions for this event?

This is an event for ages 21+ only. Children, including infants, are not permitted.

Is this event accessible?

Yes! To learn about accessibility at Lincoln Park Zoo, please visit lpzoo.org/accessibility. To view the accessibility map of Lincoln Park Zoo, click here.

My plans changed and I can no longer attend. What is the refund and exchange policy?

All Lincoln Park Zoo event tickets are nonrefundable. If you are not able to make it to the event, feel free to give your ticket to a friend or family member ages 21 or older. All events will be held rain or shine. Please dress accordingly!

Will more tickets become available at a later date?

No. Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. We suggest buying them early, as we cannot guarantee tickets will remain available.

Can I purchase tickets at the door?

Maybe. If tickets remain available, a limited number will be for sale at zoo gates. We highly recommend purchasing tickets in advance, though, as this event is expected to sell out.

How do I enter the event and can I re-enter once checked in?

Enter the zoo at the East Gate on Cannon Drive and Fullerton Parkway (the zoo’s parking lot) or the West Gate at Stockton Drive and Webster Drive. Tickets can be scanned on your smartphone or on a printed sheet of paper. Re-entry is not permitted.

Is parking available?

Paid parking is available at the zoo’s parking lot located at Fullerton Parkway and Cannon Drive (2400 N. Cannon Drive). The zoo is also accessible by train via the Armitage and Fullerton stations and by bus via the 22, 36, 151, and 156 routes. Rideshares should drop off and pick up guests outside of the zoo’s West Gate at Stockton Drive and Webster Drive.

Do I need to print my ticket?

Nope! All guests must show their ticket for entry. For the most efficient experience, please have your QR code ready on your smartphone.

Will I see animals?

Hopefully! Most outdoor and indoor habitats will be open for viewing. However, all animals have the choice to be in view of guests or behind the scenes. Learn more about our animal care and welfare standards here.

What if it rains?

This event takes place rain or shine. Please dress accordingly. Tickets are nontransferable and nonrefundable.

Will there be food available for purchase?

Yes! A variety of delicious food options will be available for purchase across zoo grounds.

What can't I bring or do at the event?

Please make note of the items that are restricted for this event:

  • NO OUTSIDE FOOD OR BEVERAGES
  • No filled reusable water bottles or beverage containers
  • No folding chairs
  • No luggage of any kind
  • No animals (except service animals)
  • No coolers (unless medically required)
  • No illegal substances
  • No noisemakers or balloons
  • No Segways or motorized scooters
  • No thermal containers
  • No weapons
  • No remote-controlled aircrafts or drones
  • No items deemed dangerous or inappropriate

Alcohol purchased outside the zoo is prohibited, and we ask that you refrain from smoking tobacco and cannabis inside the gates for the health and safety of animals and visitors. Lincoln Park Zoo’s Code of Conduct can be found here.

For the safety of our visitors, staff, and animals, all bags, purses, strollers, packages, and other items carrying personal belongings are subject to inspection upon entry to Lincoln Park Zoo.

More Information

For guests who identify as disabled, Deaf, or chronically ill, please email access@lpzoo.org for information on accommodations or the event experience.

Plan your visit to Lincoln Park Zoo by using our accessibility map and accessibility page. Lincoln Park Zoo is certified Sensory Inclusive by KultureCity. Please download the free KultureCity app with Lincoln Park Zoo’s social narrative either on iOS or Android.

Interested in sponsorship opportunities?
Email corporatealliances@lpzoo.org.

Interested in volunteering at Lincoln Park Zoo?
Email volunteerservices@lpzoo.org.

Have other questions or issues not listed here?
Email events@lpzoo.org.

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