Discover the Charm of Mount Angel Oktoberfest and Mount Angel Abbey. Experience Unforgettable Festivities!

Nestled in the heart of Oregon, Mount Angel Oktoberfest is a vibrant celebration of German culture, mouthwatering food, and a strong community spirit. Each year, this charming town welcomes thousands of visitors eager to immerse themselves in a festival that has become a local favorite. From lively music to delicious cuisine, Mount Angel Oktoberfest promises an experience you won't forget.

As you prepare for the festivities, let’s dive into what makes this event so special and why you should mark your calendar for this year’s celebration.

A Brief History of Mount Angel Oktoberfest

Mount Angel Oktoberfest started in 1966 as a small gathering to celebrate German heritage. Over the years, it has transformed into one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in the Pacific Northwest, attracting over 300,000 visitors annually. The festival is typically held on the third weekend in September, a time when the air is crisp, and the community comes alive.

The event's roots are deeply tied to German immigrants who settled in Mount Angel. Their influence is apparent in the food, music, and overall atmosphere. Today, the Oktoberfest stands as a testament to not just German culture but the spirit and hospitality of the local community.

What to Expect at Mount Angel Oktoberfest

Traditional German Cuisine

A standout feature of Mount Angel Oktoberfest is undoubtedly the food. You can sample a variety of authentic German dishes, such as bratwurst, schnitzel, pretzels, and sauerkraut. With over 50 food vendors, each offering a unique twist on classic German fare. For instance, the festival's famous currywurst is a crowd-pleaser, blending the savory taste of bratwurst with a spicy curry sauce.

For those with a sweet tooth, don't miss out on desserts like freshly baked strudel and rich Black Forest cake. These treats are not just dishes but a delightful way to conclude your culinary journey through the festival.

The Biergarten is their Festhalle, a beautiful building with a hardwood dance floor. Suitable for dancing all day and into the night. The days begin with classical polka and as evening approaches, move into traditional biergarten tunes and ramp up to Alpine Rock when Die Schlauberger takes the stage.

Craft Beer and Wine

No Oktoberfest is complete without a diverse range of beverages, and Mount Angel does not disappoint. The festival showcases over 40 craft beers, many brewed locally, ensuring a rich selection for all tastes. For instance, the popular Mount Angel Brewing Company often features a refreshing Hefeweizen, perfect for the fall weather.

Alongside beer, Oregon's renowned vineyards offer local wines for sampling. Whether you prefer a bright Sauvignon Blanc or a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, the options available cater to every palate.

The newest garden is the Engelgarten (a.k.a. Angel Garden), and 2022 was its inaugural year. This biergarten is located on the north end of Garfield Street, in the Arts and Crafts area. Watch for the banner flying on Garfield Street to lead you in.

Live Music and Entertainment

A fantastic lineup of live music amplifies the lively atmosphere at Mount Angel Oktoberfest. Throughout the weekend, you can expect to hear everything from traditional German folk music to contemporary local bands. The festival often features polka dancing sessions that invite everyone to join in, regardless of skill level.

Families will appreciate the variety of entertainment options, including games and activities for children. These elements ensure that visitors of all ages can enjoy the festive spirit of the event.

In the Alpinegarten, there is not a bad seat in the house. This premium entertainment venue requires admission. Everyone has a great view of the stage and all of the incredible entertainers. This is the place for audience participation, and everyone is a part of the fun. This is the venue to meet with your family and friends, and you may even make new friends! The Alpinegarten is open to all ages during its operating hours, so bring the kids. It also has a terrific selection of both German and craft beers, wines, with a tasty cider, and a seltzer to fit everyone's tastes. These offerings represent the best of centuries-old German brewing traditions and great representations of Oregon Craft brewers.

Arts and Crafts Vendors

Beyond food and music, the festival supports local artisans with a range of arts and crafts vendors. Attendees can find unique handmade items, from jewelry and pottery to home decor pieces. Many vendors are eager to share their stories, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and the crafts they admire.

The Prostgarten is a hidden treasure in downtown Mount Angel. At the corner of Garfield and College St, it is located behind the Glockenspiel and a row of food booths. Inside the Prostgarten, you will hear acoustic accordion music that allows for easy conversation. The beers are primarily Oregon’s Craft finest; these beers are from small local brewers that are self-distributed. These are beers that are rarely available outside of their hometowns. Get a glass of wine or a tasty craft beer, bring your favorite foods from the outside food booths, and relax. The Prostgarten offers free admittance and is a locals’ place to meet with friends and family.

Here are a couple of pictures of the Glockenspiel.

The Oktoberfest Kindergarten is a special place for the family. Open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of Oktoberfest from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. The Kindergarten is fun for families, and fun that doesn’t even touch the pocketbook; there is no admission, no ride tickets; just come and enjoy—located on the grounds of St. Mary Public School next to the church. Just follow the steeple. When you near the church, you will hear the sounds of laughter and squeals of delight that will guide you the rest of the way. There are all sorts of rides here for the kids, along with a balloon house and playground items.

Tips for Attending Mount Angel Oktoberfest

Plan Your Visit

Planning your visit is crucial for making the most of your time at Mount Angel Oktoberfest. The festival runs from Friday to Sunday, with each day offering distinct activities and performances. Be sure to check the official festival website for the schedule to avoid missing out on your favorite events.

Arrive Early

The festival tends to get crowded, particularly on weekends. Arriving early allows you to explore the grounds, savor food, and find a good spot for entertainment. Parking can be limited, so consider carpooling or using public transportation as options for your trip.

Hopfengarten (aka the Hop Garden). Opened in 2018. Named the Hop Garden in honor of the hop harvest. The venue is modeled after the successful Prostgarten and has no cover charge.

While I was here, there was also a car show going on, and I loved the cars. I took too many pictures to post them all, but here are a couple of my favorites.

If you know me, I'm always into the strange and obscure, so I loved this car!!

The Community Spirit of Mount Angel Oktoberfest

A truly remarkable aspect of Mount Angel Oktoberfest is the strong sense of community that fills the event. Local volunteers dedicate countless hours to ensure everything runs smoothly, from setting up to serving food and drinks. Visitors often comment on the warm welcome from locals and the inviting atmosphere, making it easy to feel a part of something bigger.

Time to Celebrate!

Mount Angel Oktoberfest is not just an event; it is a celebration of culture, community, and togetherness. With its rich history, delicious food, exciting entertainment, and friendly atmosphere, it’s no surprise that this festival has become cherished by many.

Whether you're a resident or visiting for the first time, Mount Angel Oktoberfest promises an experience filled with joy, great food, and lasting memories. Gather your friends and family, and prepare to uncover the magic of Mount Angel Oktoberfest this September!

By embracing the spirit of Oktoberfest, you’ll enjoy a fantastic celebration and gain a deeper appreciation for the traditions, making this event truly special. Don't miss out on this incredible festival—mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

After spending so time in downtown Mount Angel, I decided to take a trip to the Mount Angel Abbey. The monks of Mount Angel Abbey in Oregon form a Benedictine community founded in 1882 from the Abbey of Engelberg in Switzerland. They maintain a monastic tradition that has been a vital part of the Roman Catholic Church for more than 1,500 years. Responding to God’s call to holiness and preferring nothing whatsoever to Christ, they dedicate their lives, under a Rule and an abbot, to a life of prayer and work.

A Brief History of Mount Angel Abbey

Mount Angel Abbey was established by a group of Benedictine monks from Switzerland who aimed to create a community dedicated to prayer, work, and hospitality. Since its inception, the abbey has grown into a center for education and spiritual growth, welcoming hundreds of visitors each year.

The abbey's architecture beautifully blends Romanesque and Gothic styles. The iconic church at its heart, completed in 1966, features stunning stained glass windows and a majestic altar that inspires awe. Visitors often note the intricate details and serene ambiance, making it a perfect spot for quiet reflection.

The monks of Mount Angel Abbey adhere to the Rule of St. Benedict, which promotes a balanced life of prayer, work, and community. Visitors frequently comment on the pervasive sense of peace that fills the grounds, underscoring the monks' commitment to their spiritual practice.

There are some hiking trails here, and the most common one is the Stations of the Cross. If you do this hike, be ready because it does go down a pretty steep hill and follows the road to the main Abbey.

Exploring the Grounds

One of the most enchanting aspects of Mount Angel Abbey is its expansive grounds. Visitors are encouraged to wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, which are home to a variety of plants and flowers.

The Gardens

The gardens at Mount Angel Abbey represent an actual labor of love. Each season brings a new array of colors and scents. For instance, spring showcases vibrant tulips and azaleas, while summer offers lush greens and fragrant herbs.

The herb garden is particularly popular. Here, you can find over 30 types of herbs used by the monks in their cooking and for medicinal purposes. The fragrant rosemary, thyme, and basil create a sensory experience that complements the abbey's tranquility.

The Monastic Life

A visit to Mount Angel Abbey offers a unique opportunity to learn about monastic life. The monks follow a daily schedule filled with prayer, work, and study.

The Liturgy of the Hours

An essential part of monastic life is the Liturgy of the Hours, a series of prayers recited throughout the day. Visitors are welcome to join the monks for these prayers in the abbey church.

The beauty of the chants and the solemnity of the prayers create a profound experience for those who participate. Many attendees report feeling a sense of calm that lasts long after they leave.

Retreats and Workshops

Mount Angel Abbey offers retreats and workshops for those seeking a deeper understanding of spirituality. These programs help participants explore their faith, deepen their knowledge, and develop a closer relationship with God.

For example, the "Breaking Open the Word" workshop invites participants to engage with biblical texts. It is ideal for individuals new to spirituality or those who wish to enrich their faith journey. The retreats occur throughout the year and cater to various spiritual needs.

The monks of this monastery take the monastic vows of obedience, stability, and “conversatio morum,” that is often translated as “conversion of life” or morals. Their obedience is to Christ and his Church. They live this obedience under a Rule and an abbot. The abbot rules the monastery more by example than by legislation; the Holy Rule is an assistance and guide in following the Holy Gospel. Stability has been described as the vows that hold them to the cross.

“The man of God, Benedict, among the many wonderful works that made him famous in this world, was also conspicuous for his teaching: for he wrote a Rule for monks, remarkable for discretion and rich in instruction. If anyone desires to know more deeply the life and character of the man, he may find in the ordinances of the Rule the exact image of his whole government: for the holy man cannot possibly have taught otherwise than as he lived.” – Pope Saint Gregory the Great.

The Chapel and Mass Times

• Saturday: 5:30 PM

• Sunday: 7:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 12:30 PM Spanish

• Mon-Fri 7:00 AM Morning Prayer proceeds Mass, starting at 6:50 AM

The Viewpoint

A highlight of visiting Mount Angel Abbey is the viewpoint overlooking the Willamette Valley. From this spot, you can see the rolling hills, vineyards, and farmlands that make this region picturesque. The valley is known for producing nearly 90% of Oregon's wine, and the views from the abbey capture this beauty perfectly.

Many visitors take a moment to sit on benches provided, soaking in the landscape and reflecting on their lives. It’s an excellent spot for photography, meditation, or simply enjoying a moment of peace.

In the entrance hall of Mount Angel Abbey’s Museum, there is a space for showcasing original art. Dozens of new exhibits are currently on view, along with favorite Abbey Museum items that have been on display in the past. The integration of art and natural history provides a collection that is both educational and inspirational for all who visit. In the words of Fr. Frowin, the museum is “sufficiently important and interesting in itself to deserve at least the leisure moments at our disposal. There is nothing so little or so trivial in God’s grand world but may be made to teach useful lessons, and at the same time become an endless source of pure, interesting, and wholesome recreation during our spare hours.”

The monks of Mount Angel Abbey are proud of this eclectic display, ranging from geological and environmental specimens to art and artifacts, ancient and contemporary, temporal and ecclesial, collected from a diverse cross-section of cultures.

They even have a section of taxidermy, and the Abbey Museum is open for self-guided tours Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 am to 4 pm.

The Abbey's Library

For book lovers and scholars, the abbey’s library is a treasure trove of knowledge. Housing over 40,000 theological texts, historical documents, and literature, the library is an inviting place for study.

A Quiet Space for Reflection

The library is not just about checking out books; it serves as a quiet space for reflection and study. Visitors can find cozy nooks to immerse themselves in reading or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

The library’s architecture is impressive, boasting high ceilings and beautiful woodwork that add to its inviting ambiance.

In the early 1960s, library director Fr. Barnabas Reasoner, O.S.B., approached the Finnish architect Alvar Aalto to design a new library building for the Abbey. A report of that meeting was published in the March 1966 issue of the Mount Angel Abbey Library Bulletin. Because of his love of libraries and the special qualities of the Mount Angel Abbey site, Aalto agreed to design the library for a nominal fee. The building was funded entirely through the generosity of Howard and Jean Vollum, who also contributed to the library’s endowment.

The Mount Angel Abbey Library focuses on topics in the humanities and theology. Among the more than 225,000 titles, they also have several special collections that draw scholars from around the world.

Patristics and Latin Christian Literature

The Patristics and Latin Christian Literature Collection (non-circulating, in room 210) is a research collection containing the primary editions and scholarly tools needed to do advanced research in Patristics and Medieval philosophy and theology. It is supported by the library’s holdings of secondary works on early and medieval Christianity.

Civil War

The American Civil War collection was begun and developed by Abbot Bonaventure Zerr, O.S.B. It contains over 5,000 volumes and is one of the best Civil War collections in the western United States.

Rare Books

The Antiquarian and Rare Books collections consist of over 5,000 titles published between 1300 and 1900, most of them Roman Catholic. In the early 1980s, the nucleus of this collection underwent extensive conservation and cataloging. These books are housed in the vault, in Room 208, and the archives.

The library seats 200 patrons in 30 closed and 40 open carrels. It accommodates a comfortable reading room with current issues of over 300 periodicals, a music listening and group study room, large study tables on the ground floor, and sunlit study areas around the staircases. The library collection numbers over 225,000 volumes, while the building could hold up to 300,000 volumes.

In the Abbey, they had everything that a small town would need except a general store.

When you first walk into the library, on the right is an auditorium for both lectures and video conference calls.

Post Office.

The Gift Shop

No visit to Mount Angel Abbey would be complete without stopping by the gift shop. Here, you can find a variety of unique items, including religious artifacts, books, and locally made products.

Supporting the Monastic Community

Purchasing items from the gift shop supports the monks and their mission. Many products, like the delicious baked goods and handcrafted items, are made by the monks themselves.

The bookstore is stocked with a wide variety of books and gifts, specializing in monasticism, theology, and Catholic spirituality. There is also a selection of fine art, icons, all occasion and blank cards, devotional objects and religious gift items, as well as resources for Gregorian chant and sacred classical music.

Buying from the gift shop is an excellent way to take home a piece of the abbey while contributing to the community's livelihood.

The Coffeehouse is situated within the bookstore in the historic Abbey Press building. The Abbey Coffeehouse is a peaceful cafe-style place to stop and enjoy a coffee or cold drink, conversation, and the beautiful scenic view of the hillside and valley surrounding the Hilltop. The refinished and updated coffeehouse offers a robust menu of coffee beverages and a selection of pastries.

Near the bookstore was a water tower along with a cemetery.

Events and Festivals

Throughout the year, Mount Angel Abbey hosts various events and festivals that draw visitors from near and far. These events celebrate the abbey's rich traditions and encourage community engagement.

Special Liturgical Celebrations

The abbey also holds special liturgical celebrations throughout the year, including Christmas and Easter services. These events, open to the public, provide a unique opportunity to experience the abbey's beauty during these sacred times.

The graves at the cemetery are all deceased monks who belonged to the Abbey.

The Saint Benedict Guesthouse and Retreat Center is situated on the south slope of the Abbey Hilltop. The newly renovated rooms offer views of the Abbey church and bell tower to the north and Willamette Valley farmland – some 300 feet below – to the southwest. The expanded conference rooms, meeting rooms, and terraces provide space for individuals, retreat groups, and day groups to reflect, converse, rest, and pray in an atmosphere of peace, beauty, and Benedictine hospitality.

A Journey Worth Taking

Mount Angel Abbey is more than just a beautiful location; it is a place of spiritual significance and community. Whether you seek a quiet retreat, a deeper understanding of monastic life, or an opportunity to enjoy the stunning landscapes, the abbey offers a unique experience that leaves a lasting impression.

As you explore the grounds, participate in the prayers, and connect with the monks, you will discover the hidden wonders of Mount Angel Abbey and its mystical charm. This enchanting destination is a testament to the power of faith, community, and the beauty of nature, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling through Oregon.

So, pack your bags, take a trip to Mount Angel Abbey, and immerse yourself in the tranquility and beauty that awaits you. You won’t regret it!

My last stop was down the road to the Benedictine Brewery. If you do decide to go here, you will have to take the road you came up to get to the Abbey. At the bottom of the hill, turn left and then take your first left, and the Brewery is down the road on the left.

One of only a few breweries in the United States owned and operated by monks, the Benedictine craft beer uses locally sourced hops grown on Abbey land and water from the monks' well. These include the Brewery's flagship beer, Black Habit, which has received an enthusiastic reception from the brewing community and beer lovers.

They use a hop field to grow their hops.

Brewers, beer writers, and craft beer judges captivated by the vision of a monastic brewery have volunteered their time, brewing suggestions, and business advice. A community timber raising, which took place in 2017, was an inspiring example of the communal nature of the project. The all-day affair involved more than 100 volunteers – including monks, seminarians, and staff from the Abbey, as well as members of the local town of Mt. Angel. The only break in the day's efforts was to gather for a prayer service in the brewery structure at noon, followed by a traditional barbecue lunch. In the course of the brisk Saturday, what started as a bare concrete slab quickly became a structural frame with building blocks that defined the overall shape of the Brewery and Taproom. The frame was built from 14,000 board feet of Douglas fir harvested from the Abbey tree farm. It now serves as a welcoming place to gather, taste, and believe.

The steps leading up to the brewery from the parking lot. The barn and silo are where they store brewing equipment, hops, and other items.

The food menu here is minimal and consists of pretzels, a meat and cheese plate, along with chips and salsa. There is a food truck outside that was selling Mexican food, which was a bonus. Here is the menu, and this can change depending on the season.

Fr. Martin, general manager of the brewery, has been at Mount Angel Abbey since he began seminary in 1995. Between other duties at the Abbey, he has been advancing his brewing and beer-tasting skills. Other monks lend their hands to the art of beer-making, particularly during brewing and bottling.

I had to try the flagship beer, the "Black Habit". I did like this beer!!!

There is a little gift shop here, and you can buy Brewery items like hats, T-shirts, Sweatshirts, Hoodies, etc. All of the money raised goes back into the Abbey.

Here are a couple of pictures of the brewery.

Benedictine Oblate retreats are explicitly intended for oblates interested in deepening their Christian lives through the spirituality of the Benedictine tradition. For the majority of the retreats that begin on Friday evenings, retreatants arrive in time for vespers and Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament in the Abbey church: these begin at 5:15 pm. Dinner follows, then compline (also in the Abbey church). A welcome and first conference is given after compline to open the retreat. The retreat follows the monastic horarium (schedule), with retreatants joining the monks for Holy Mass and the Divine Office. Meals are silent, served buffet or family style in the retreat house dining room, accompanied by spiritual reading.

Silence ends with breakfast on Sunday. Many retreats will include the ceremony of Final Oblation that takes place at the monastic community’s Sunday celebration of the Holy Eucharist. A light reception is held afterward, followed by the final of four spiritual conferences. Before this final presentation, those wishing to begin the process of becoming a Benedictine Oblate of Mount Angel Abbey can do so by participating in the induction of oblate novices, where they will receive their copy of the Holy Rule of Saint Benedict and receive a blessing. The retreats conclude with the noon meal, at which retreatants have an opportunity to visit with one another and make plans for their next visit to the monastery.

(Retreats are limited to oblates and those interested in becoming oblates.)

Oblates of St. Benedict are Christians who have experienced in some way a call to embrace Benedictine spirituality. After a time of prayer and discernment, they have desired a more formal, permanent commitment to a monastic community. By making this formal self-giving to Christ in communion with a monastic community, the oblate embraces the time-tested traditions and values of the Benedictine way. Oblates are united to the prayer and good works of the monastery to which they are associated while they continue to live out their Christian vocation in the world.

For more information on becoming an oblate, or if you need financial assistance, please email Ariel Lynch, Associate Director of Oblates. To register for a retreat, email retreat@mtangel.edu.

(Please note: All weekend retreats begin with Vespers on Friday at 5:15 and end with lunch on Sunday.) Price is subject to change, so contact Ariel.

Cost: $220 Single $330 Couple $115 Commuter per person

Planning Your Visit to Mount Angel Abbey

If you’re planning a visit, keep a few things in mind to make the most of your experience.

Hours of Operation

The abbey welcomes visitors daily, but it’s wise to check the website for specific hours and any special events. This ensures that you get the most out of your visit.

Dress Code

As a place of worship, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and respectfully. Comfortable shoes are recommended as you’ll want to explore the grounds.

Accessibility

Mount Angel Abbey strives to ensure its facilities are accessible to all visitors. If you have specific needs, contact the abbey in advance to ensure a comfortable experience.

Places to Stay:

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Salem North - Keizer by IHG

Oregon Garden Resort

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