SEPTEMBER 19 & 20, 2026
2025 Music Lineup
Live Music at Des Moines Marina Oktoberfest 2025
This year’s Oktoberfest at the Des Moines Marina will feature two incredible bands bringing the lively sounds of polka and German-inspired music to the Quarterdeck stage.
Ted Lunka Polka Band
Saturday, Sept. 20
Starts @ 4:30pm
Ted Lunka Polka Band
Kicking things off on Saturday, September 20 at 4:30 PM, the Ted Lunka Polka Band will fill the air with upbeat polka rhythms that are sure to get everyone dancing. Known for their spirited performances, this talented group blends traditional polka tunes with infectious energy, making them a crowd favorite at Oktoberfest celebrations across the region.
Bonnie Birch Trio
SUNDAY, Sept. 21
Starts @ 4:30pm
Bonnie Birch Trio
On Sunday, September 21 at 4:30 PM, the Bonnie Birch Trio will take the stage, bringing their signature mix of accordion melodies, guitar, and tuba harmonies. With Bonnie Birch leading on accordion, this trio delivers a lively and authentic Oktoberfest sound perfect for enjoying a fall evening by the marina.
2025 TAP LINE UP
Food Lineup
Craft Beers
Local Micro-brews
Wine Selection
Snacks
Grilled Ham and Cheese Sandwich
Assorted Pastries
Cookies (for dogs too)
Dirty German
Longhorn Cheddar German Sausage, Bistro Sauce, Sauteed Peppers and Onions,
Gouda Cheese Sauce, Pretzel Bun. Served with your choice of Pretzel Sticks with Beer Cheese or German Potato Salad or Veg Medley.
Sausage or Braut Plate
Braut or Longhorn German Sausage, German Potato Salad, Veg Medley, Purple Sauerkraut,Stone Ground Mustard.
Chicken or Pork Schnitzel Sandy
Pork or Chicken Schnitzel, Ranch Slaw, Sliced Tomato, Dill Pickle Chips, Pretzel Bun. Served with your choice of Pretzel Sticks with Beer Cheese or German Potato Salad or Vegetable Medley.
Chicken or Pork Schnitzel Plate
Fried Pork or Chicken Schnitzel, German Potato Salad, Vegetable Medley, Purple Sauerkraut, Stone Ground Mustard.
Pretzel Sticks with Beer Cheese
HISTORY
The first Oktoberfest was held on October 12th, 1810, in Munich, Germany, for the wedding of Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. The event's icon is beer, introduced in 1880, and bratwurst.
Today, Oktoberfest is a significant celebration worldwide. German beer is 7% to 8% alcohol. Forgetting that this is more potent, many pass out due to excessive drinking. These drunk patrons are called “Beer Corpses.”
Millions of liters of beer, thousands of liters of wine, tea/coffee, and a million liters of water/sodas will be consumed during the festival. Munich celebrates its 190th Oktoberfest 2025! Prost!
By Pat Nardo
our sponsors
& SUPPORTERS
PREMIERE SPONSOR
Founders:
Pat (Producer) & Marianne Nardo
Director:
Bettina Carey
Benefactor:
Lighthouse NW
Supporters & Volunteers
Mayor Traci Buxton
Deputy Mayor Harry Steinmetz, Emcee
Pierre Blosse, Emcee
Senator Tina Orwall
Bonnie Wilkins, City of Des Moines
N. Curtis, Volunteer
Susie Novak, Volunteer
Brandi Friend, Volunteer
Pat Murray, Volunteer
Arnold Andrews, Volunteer
Kate Diamond, Volunteer
Ta Sukovaty, Volunteer
Brooke Naef, Hunter & Sophie Naef
