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Zootoberfest

Celebrate the start of autumn at Zootoberfest, now in September for more “oompah” fun! Enjoy this family-friendly, Oktoberfest-style event with beer and root beer, German-themed cuisine, and live music. Plus, just for the kinder, there are educational activities. As you savor some brews and brats, check out the Zoo’s open exhibits and attractions. PROST!

Sept. 11-13, 19-20, 2026
Free for all guests; food and beverages available for purchase

 

Zootoberfest Dates and Hours

Enjoy Zootoberfest during the dates and hours below (and we’ve added some extra hours for more Oktoberfest-themed fun!). The whole Zoo campus is also open with its regular hours and experiences.

Friday, Sept. 115-8 p.m.📅 Add to calendar
Saturday, Sept 1210 a.m.-6 p.m.📅 Add to calendar
Sunday, Sept. 1310 a.m.-4 p.m.📅 Add to calendar
Saturday, Sept. 1910 a.m.-8 p.m.📅 Add to calendar
Sunday, Sept. 20.10 a.m.-4 p.m.📅 Add to calendar

BACK THIS YEAR!  Enjoy a Zootoberfest evening on Friday, Sept.11, from 5 to 8 p.m.

  • FREE PARKING after 4 p.m.
  • Enjoy “So Grand Polka Band” from 5-8 p.m., located in Schnuck Family Plaza
  • See Zoo animals early in the evening; please note the closing times below:
    6 p.m.: Big Cat Country, Red Rocks, River's Edge, Bird Garden, Jungle of the Apes/Fragile Forest, Primate Canopy Trails/Primate House
    7:30 p.m.: Penguin & Puffin Coast, Herpetarium, Stingrays at Caribbean Cove, Insectarium
  • Last entry to the Zoo at 7:45 p.m. 

 

Live Music

September 11: So Grand Polka Band - 5-8 p.m.

September 12: Die Spitzbuam - 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

September 13: The Wurst Bavarian Band - 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

September 19: DJ Epic - 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

September 19: DJ PBNJeffy - 5-8 p.m.

September 20: Über Cool - 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Fall Fare from Around the World

Discover festival-themed cuisine at locations throughout the Zoo, and check out beer trailers featuring over 40 different beers. Check back soon for a beer passport so you can scope out your favorite brews in advance!
 

Specialty Food Menu

Enjoy specialty items at these locations:

German Corned Beef Poutine with German Potato Salad

Bratwursts served with German Potato Salad:

Traditional Brat
Cajun Chicken
Jalapeno Pepper Jack
Beef Cheddar Brat
All brats come topped with peppers and onions

Bratwursts served with German Potato Salad:

Bacon Cheddar
Jalapeno
Beef Cheddar Brat

Caramel Apple Sundae Funnel Cake
Apple Cider Float
Spiked Root Beer Float
Turtle Sundae

Mini Brat Sliders
Beer Cheese Mac ‘n’ Cheese, served with Braised German Red Cabbage

House-Smoked Turkey Legs

Bratwursts served with German Potato Salad:

Traditional Brat
Cajun Chicken
Jalapeno Pepper Jack
Beef Cheddar Brat
All brats come topped with peppers and onions

Giant Bavarian Pretzels with Beer Cheese Sauce (Regular or Sweet-Baked)

Bavarian Apple Turnovers with Warm Caramel Drizzle

Pumpkin Shaken Espresso with Pecan Brown Sugar Cold Foam

Cinnamon Sugar Bavarian Pretzel

Kettle Corn (Fall Flavors):

Caramel Apple Crisp
Pumpkin Spice
Cheddar Cheese
Traditional

For the Kinder (Children)

In addition to regular Zoo fun, kids are invited to participate in Zootoberfest activity stations, and root beer will be available for purchase.

Thank you to our 2026 sponsors:

Urban Chestnut Brewing Company

Mid America Chevy Dealers