Snowbird announces changes ahead of 2025 Oktoberfest

SALT LAKE CITY — For some, Snowbird’s Oktoberfest signals that autumn is arriving. This year, the resort is making some adjustments. 

During the 2025 festival, Snowbird is partnering with Snow Country Limo to provide free shuttles to and from Oktoberfest. An Instagram post shared by the resort said ride reservations are now open. 

According to the resort website, shuttle service begins every Saturday and Sunday, and on Labor Day, at 12 p.m. 

Riders can board the shuttle bound for Snowbird at 2065 E. 9510 South in Sandy, which is one of Utah Transit Authority’s Park and Ride lots. They will be dropped off near the Snowbird Center. 

Per the reservation website, between Aug. 9 and Aug. 24, shuttles will depart in each direction every 80 minutes. Beginning Aug. 30, they will depart every 40 minutes. 

Although reservations are being encouraged, the website said unreserved rides will be offered on a first-come, first-served, as available basis. 

Snowbird urged Oktoberfest visitors not to drink and drive. However, for those who choose to drive to the event, paid parking options will be available. 

Responsible alcohol consumption at altitude

If you choose to consume alcohol at the event, ensure you do so safely. 

Healthline recommended alternating alcoholic beverages with glasses of water. For each drink you consume, a rule of thumb is to wait one hour before operating a vehicle. 

For example, if you consume two beverages in two hours, you will need to wait an additional two hours before you drive. 

Additionally, consuming alcohol at higher altitudes can increase the drink’s effects. Drinking extra water and further pacing your consumption can help you remain safe and healthy. 

If you’ll be visiting Oktoberfest with people who don’t normally live at Utah’s elevation, encourage them to acclimate to the Salt Lake Valley’s elevation before heading to the event. Taking the time to adjust can help them tolerate alcohol better and avoid ailments such as altitude sickness. 

Eating before you begin consuming alcohol can also decrease the impact beer, wine or cocktails has on your body. Johns Hopkins University recommended having a snack or meal that has a combination of protein, fat and carbohydrates. 

2025 Oktoberfest: more food, drink vendors

Oktoberfest will also offer “additional” food and drink vendors this year. Although more details were not given, a map on the Snowbird website shows the location of the new spots. 

A new seating tent, referred to as “Little Halle,” is also being added. 

To make more room, the vendor village’s placement has been moved west. The map indicated that it will sit right inside the festival entrance, similar to years past. 

The festival offers several Bavarian-inspired foods—think soft pretzels, bratwurst and apple strudel—and other treats, like oversized gingerbread cookies. 

 

Pack your clear bag

According to Snowbird, this year’s Oktoberfest will require that any bag with dimensions over 6 inches by 9 inches be clear. Diaper and medical supply bags are exempt. 

Bags brought into the festival will be subject to search. Furthermore, the resort said clear bags will be available for purchase at Entries 1, 2 and 4. 

Weapons, outside food and drinks, and smoking are prohibited.

Pets are also not allowed in. Since Little Cottonwood Canyon is a watershed area, pets are prohibited at all times. 

Don’t consume alcohol? Oktoberfest might still provide fun

Snowbird welcomes thousands of visitors to Oktoberfest each year, offering activities to those of all ages and backgrounds. 

Although the event seems to center around the consumption of beer, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy autumn air in Little Cottonwood Canyon. 

For example, the resort’s Alpine Slide, bungee trampolines and zipline are open during the festival. Inflatable bounce houses are also set up for the event. Summer hiking trails and tram rides also remain open for the duration of the event. 

Several vendors sell goods in a farmer’s market-style setup, allowing guests to browse locally made goods and other items. Musicians provide live entertainment, and a different artist paints a mural on a wooden cutout of Snowbird’s logo each day. 

Snowbird will host Oktoberfest every weekend from Aug. 9 to Oct. 12, and on Labor Day.