Two St. Louis favorites are redefining Oktoberfest with a new twist

Urban Chestnut Brewing Company (UCBC) and Sugarfire Smokehouse—two icons of the St. Louis food and drink scene—are joining forces this fall to bring a fresh spin to Oktoberfest. This partnership combines UCBC’s beloved German brews with Sugarfire’s signature barbecue, offering a festival experience like no other.

This weekend’s Oktoberfest St. Louis, held October 11–12 in the Grove, marks the debut of “Sugarfire in the Grove” at UCBC’s Bierhall. Expect traditional German fare—giant Bavarian pretzels and zwickel bratwursts—alongside Sugarfire’s smoked turkey legs, pulled pork sandwiches, and brisket.

“Partnering with Sugarfire is a natural fit,” says UCBC co-founder Florian Kuplent. “Their commitment to quality complements our passion for brewing, offering a fresh way to enjoy Oktoberfest flavors.”

Starting October 15, Sugarfire begins a six-month residency at UCBC’s Grove Bierhall, expanding the menu with barbecue favorites and rotating German classics. Fans of both will enjoy a blend of BBQ dishes and European-inspired flavors in one place.

Oktoberfest Brews and Masskrugstemmen Fun

Of course, no Oktoberfest would be complete without great beer, and UCBC has you covered with its finest brews. Expect crowd favorites like the smooth Zwickel Lager, their Oktoberfest Märzen, and the popular Oachkatzlschwoaf. Whether you prefer light and crisp or bold and malty, there’s a beer for every palate.

But beer isn’t just for drinking—it’s also at the center of the festival’s Masskrugstemmen contest. This traditional stein-holding competition tests participants’ strength and stamina as they hold a 1-liter stein of beer at arm’s length for as long as possible. The rules are simple: no spilling, no lowering your arm, and only one hand allowed. The last person standing with their stein in place takes home the glory.

Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just there to cheer, the competition adds extra fun and excitement to the festival atmosphere.

Event Highlights:

Friday, October 11 (Noon-10 p.m.): Head to the Grove Street Festival to kick off the weekend. Enjoy live music, tasty German fare, and plenty of bier flowing. The street festival on Manchester Ave will run from 5 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., but the Bierhall opens as early as noon!
Saturday, October 12 (Noon-10 p.m.): Day two of the Grove Street Festival continues with more live bands, Masskrugstemmen competitions, axe throwing, Oktoberfest-themed craft vendors, and even a silent disco for some extra fun.
Sunday, October 13 (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.): It’s Family Day at the Midtown Biergarten, featuring a laid-back Bavarian Brunch and family-friendly activities like lawn games and face painting. It’s the perfect way to close out the weekend.

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