Each autumn, Southern California's loveliest Oktoberfest turns La Mesa's downtown into a Bavarian paradise of bratwurst, brews, and polka music. But for one very special group of the celebration, it is not the steins or sausages that matter. It is the paws.
Welcome back to the Dackeldorf Dachshund Village. Just as adorable and zany, this wagging stop is the hottest attraction at La Mesa Oktoberfest. On October 3 - 5, 2025, all dog sizes will be in the spotlight for a full weekend of wiener dog races, pup fashion shows, and doggy contests that transform Oktoberfest into Bark-toberfest.
If you've never witnessed a dachshund in lederhosen sprinting to a finishing line, get ready to have your heart pilfered. And if you have, then you already know there isn't.
A Weekend Where Dogs Are the Stars
Tucked away in the center of La Mesa Village is Dackeldorf Dachshund Village where fur and flair meet. With its own set of activities on its own schedule, this section of the festival honors the joy that dogs bring to our lives and allows them to join in on the fun.
Laurel McFarlane, La Mesa Oktoberfest producer for years, says it best. "San Diego is one of the country's most pet-friendly cities, and we love to provide our furry friends with their time in the spotlight."
This year's lineup includes back fan favorites and a couple of surprises. But whether you are a dachshund fanatic or simply an aficionado of all things fluffy and silly, the weekend guarantees non-stop smiles and good-vibes competition.
Fashion Furward Fun on the Runway
Before the racing, glamour time. The Dachshund Fashion Show brings together the cutest contestants to parade around in their best duds. You'll see dogs dressed up in dirndls, wiener dog costumes, and even coordinating costumes with their owners.
Awards are given in silly categories such as Best Hot Dog, Best Lederhosen or Dirndl, Most Oktoberfest Spirit, and Best Matching Costumes. And the people's favorite People's Choice award reminds everyone that the true star is the winning dog who captured the hearts of the people.
Whether your dog is a diva or simply a spotlight hog, this is one party that mixes cute with applause-worthy.
Planking With a Plush Twist
One of the highlights of the weekend is Dachshund Planking. All ages of athletes try to see how strong their core is by placing a stuffed dachshund on their back. Yes, you guessed it. It is goofy, childish, and oddly competitive.
Even if you're not in the running for the prize plush pup, the image of planking poses with stuffed dogs precariously balanced on top is enough to bring giggles all around. It is one of those moments that demonstrates this festival truly has something for everybody two-legged or four.
The Fastest Feet in the Village
And then there is the big event. The one that makes hearts pound and paws run.
The dachshund races are returning, and they are larger than life. These small dogs pack big enthusiasm as they dash toward their owners with ears flying and tails wagging. The crowds arrive in advance to claim a good place to watch, and each heat is an instant showstopper for the day.
New this year are the "Dachshund at Heart" races, featuring other small breeds. So no matter if your best buddy is a terrier or a Pomeranian, they still get to show off on the racetrack.
No betting. No anxiety. Just barks, cheers, and unbridled happy chaos.
Secret Talents and Howl-dealing
Some dogs are fast. Some are fashionable. But some shine brightest in the center of the spotlight. The Howl-dealing and Trick Contest is where you get to show off your dog's best talents. Think goofy turns, clever barks on command, or a stride that might put any runway model to shame.
The atmosphere is all about fun, with prizes for talent and style too. It is one of those rare occasions when all the competitors leave a little wiser and a great deal more loved.
More Than Just Dog Events
Of course, La Mesa Oktoberfest is not dog-focused. It is also among the biggest free Oktoberfest celebrations on the West Coast, attracting more than 100,000 visitors annually.
In addition to the Dackeldorf Village, guests have three fun-filled biergartens serving German and local craft beer, a Kinder Karneval featuring rides for children and adults, and over 100 vendors selling everything from handmade festival merchandise to gourmet delicacies.
Live music swirls on the breeze, and old-fashioned Bavarian performers maintain the celebratory mood. If you're visiting for the dachshunds or the dunkel, you'll discover something to adore around every cobblestone turn.
VIP Privileges and Festival Tips
Admission to La Mesa Oktoberfest is free, making it one of the more affordable festivals of the year. But if you want to elevate your experience, VIP tickets are offered. Adults 21 and above can obtain VIP access for just $15, and under-21 passes can be purchased starting at $10.
VIP privileges also come with reserved seating and admission in certain areas, which is useful if you'll be spending time in the packed biergartens. And, yes, well-mannered dogs are invited to accompany the whole festival, not only the Dackeldorf Village. Festival times are 4 PM to 10 PM Friday, 10 AM to 10 PM Saturday, and noon to 8 PM Sunday. Get there early to secure good parking and pup-watching positions.
A Heartwarming Tradition That Continues to Grow
La Mesa Oktoberfest has been all about community. From its humble beginnings as a small neighborhood celebration, it has evolved into one of Southern California's most highly anticipated celebrations. And as the Dackeldorf Dachshund Village grows ever more popular, it is obvious that joy is in all shapes and sizes small and furry, that is. So put it on your calendars. Bring your pup, your dirndl, and your sense of humor. If you come to cheer, to compete, or simply to cuddle some costumed dogs, the Dackeldorf Dachshund Village is an event that's one-of-a-kind and shows the prettiest of participants reap the biggest rewards in our hearts.
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