Iowa is known for a lot of great things, but maybe its best selling point is just how many of its small towns feel like little European villages. You can find traces of the Hawkeye State’s immigrant roots in small towns and big cities alike, and nowhere more than Guttenberg. This city of just under 1,800 people is known for its rich German roots, and once per year, it comes alive with a celebration of all things Teutonic. Oktoberfest? Not exactly – they’ve got that covered over in the Amana Colonies in epic style – but Guttenberg has its own version that is well worth a visit! Guttenberg’s GermanFest, held this year from September 22nd to 23rd, is an exciting cultural festival packed with great food, great drinks, great music, and a sense of fun and community that makes this German festival in Iowa stand out from the crowd.

If this photo from the 2022 event is any indication, Guttenberg's GermanFest will be an epic event of food, fun, and music.
Guttenberg GermanFest/Facebook
The streets of this charming small town will be alive once again with dozens of stalls featuring authentic German and local crafts.
Guttenberg GermanFest/Facebook
The food trucks will be out in force, offering every sausage you can imagine and so much more!
Guttenberg GermanFest/Facebook

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It'll be fall, of course, so classic autumn treats like caramel apples will make their presence known as well.
Guttenberg GermanFest/Facebook
You can expect countless fun activities for the little ones, including inflatable obstacle courses and themed races.
Guttenberg GermanFest/Facebook
As for the adults, you know the bartenders will be ready to pour your choice of brew!
Guttenberg GermanFest/Facebook
Get your food and your beer, head over to the beer hall, and wait for the raucous singing to begin - you're at GermanFest, and the good times are rolling!
Guttenberg GermanFest/Facebook

Have you attended Guttenberg’s GermanFest in past years? Tell us your favorite part of this German festival in Iowa in the comments section, and let us know your plans for year 32! You can follow all the updates for this year’s event on the Guttenberg GermanFest Facebook page. If you’re planning a visit to Guttenberg, you’ll definitely want to work in a stay at this charming local retreat.

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Guttenberg, IA 52052, USA