New Ulm — New Ulm Oktoberfest is once again in the national running for USA TODAY’s 10BEST Readers’ Choice Award for Best Oktoberfest, and the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce is encouraging residents, visitors, and Oktoberfest fans to help bring another Top 10 finish home to New Ulm.

New Ulm Oktoberfest has earned a place among the 10 best Oktoberfest celebrations in the country for three consecutive years, ranking #10 in 2023, #10 in 2024, and climbing to #7 in 2025. Now, New Ulm is looking to continue that streak and climb even higher in 2026.

Nominees for the USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice Awards are selected by USA TODAY 10BEST editors and a panel of subject-matter experts. Nominations cannot be purchased, and the final rankings are determined by public voting. Voting is open through Monday, September 7, at 10:59 a.m. Central Time, and supporters may vote once per day throughout the voting period.

“Being recognized nationally year after year is a reflection of what makes Oktoberfest in New Ulm so special,” said Sarah Warmka, President & CEO of the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce. “Our German heritage, local businesses, organizations, volunteers, and the thousands of people who come together to celebrate all contribute to the experience. We’re proud to represent New Ulm on a national stage, and we hope everyone will keep voting and help us climb even higher this year!”

New Ulm Oktoberfest returns October 2–3 and October 9–10, 2026, bringing German music, food, beverages, parades, contests, shopping, family activities, and plenty of gemütlichkeit to Minnesota’s most German city. Unlike many Oktoberfest celebrations held at a single festival site, New Ulm’s celebration takes place at multiple locations throughout the community, each offering its own entertainment, atmosphere, and traditions.

New for 2026, Downtown New Ulm Oktoberfest will host the Minnesota State Steinholding Championship Finals on Saturday, October 3. Qualifying competitors from across Minnesota will compete for the state title and the opportunity to advance to the U.S. Steinholding Association National Championship.

Supporters can vote for New Ulm once per day through September 7 and are encouraged to share the voting information with family, friends, coworkers, and fellow Oktoberfest fans. To vote or learn more about New Ulm Oktoberfest, visit www.newulm.com/oktoberfest. For additional information, contact the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce at chamber@newulm.com or 507-233-4300.