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gemütlichkeit

/ɡəˈmo͞otliKHˌkīt/

Click to hear the pronunciation

Gemütlichkeit is a German tradition that celebrates friendship, goodwill, belonging, and joyful fellowship. It is the feeling of gathering around a table with old friends, sharing stories, laughter, music, and community. 


At Oktoberfest Youngstown, we’re inviting the entire Mahoning Valley to celebrate the season while supporting Autism programs and services.

Grab the Gemütlichkeit. Support Local Autism Programs.

Grab the gemütlichkeit. Group of people enjoying Beer Fest tradition while toasting beer mugs in a festive tent. Celebrating friendship and German customs, they are dressed in traditional Bavarian clothing, with a joyful and communal atmosphere in the air.

Originally created in 2014 as a signature fundraiser for the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley, Oktoberfest Youngstown combines authentic Bavarian traditions with community celebration to support local autism programs and services. Inspired by the German tradition of Gemütlichkeit – a spirit of warmth, friendship, belonging, and joyful fellowship – the festival invites the entire community to enjoy a day of food, music, games, and giving back.

The Sound of Oktoberfest

The Oktoberfest Youngstown Stage will feature continuous entertainment throughout the day with performances by the Saxon Club Band, Ohio Valley Folk Society Dancers, Fred Ziwich Polkas, and Youngstown’s House Band, bringing traditional German music, folk dancing, and lively evening entertainment to Downtown Youngstown.

The Sound of Oktoberfest. Munich, Germany - September 29: typical bavarian dancer with traditional clothes at the oktoberfest in munich on September 29, 2024

Raise a Stein

Enjoy a delicious selection of authentic German-inspired favorites, seasonal Oktoberfest beers, wines, cocktails, and other beverages while experiencing the flavors and hospitality that make Oktoberfest one of the world’s most celebrated festivals.

Let the Games Begin

Get in on the action with crowd favorites including the Community Chicken Dance, Pretzel Toss, Masskrugstemmen (Beer Stein Holding Competition), Beer Stein Races, Best Beer Belly Contest, Brat-Eating Contest, Yodeling Contest, and other interactive activities designed for all ages.

Munich, Germany - September 21, 2019: waiter carrying a lot of beer glasses in beer tent at Octoberfest in Munich

Bavarian Marketplace

Stroll the unique collection of vendors featuring German-inspired gifts, artisan products, specialty foods, handcrafted items, apparel, home décor,
and festival merchandise.

Celebrate with Purpose

Whether you’re raising a stein with friends, enjoying live entertainment, cheering on the contests, or simply soaking in the spirit of Gemütlichkeit, Oktoberfest Youngstown is a celebration where everyone belongs, and every guest helps make a difference.

Every admission ticket, sponsorship, vendor booth, and donation helps support Autism Society of Mahoning Valley programs that provide advocacy, education, family support, social opportunities, and community connections for local individuals and families affected by Autism.