The 2025 Germantown October Fest will take place on Saturday, October 4, 2025, along Century Boulevard and the BlackRock Center for the Arts lawn.
Organized by the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce (GGCC) with support from Montgomery County and BlackRock, the free, family-friendly event will feature live music from Nine Days, a parade with the Commanders Command Force and Major Tuddy, a beer garden, food trucks, artisan vendors, a free children’s carnival, and cultural performances. After attracting more than 4,000 attendees in 2024, this year’s festival expands its focus to celebrate both Oktoberfest traditions and Germantown’s cultural diversity.
Per GGCC: “The fall tradition continues! On Saturday, October 4, 2025, the Germantown October Fest returns for its second year since its revival — bringing with it a day of lively celebration, community pride, and inclusive fun for all ages. With the support of Montgomery County and presenting partner BlackRock Center for the Arts, this free, family-friendly event promises to be bigger and more vibrant than ever.
After drawing 4,000+ attendees in 2024 following a five-year hiatus, this year’s event embraces a broader cultural and seasonal focus. Now known as “October Fest,” Germantown’s celebration blends the cherished traditions of Oktoberfest with the rich cultural diversity of Germantown and the Upcounty — reflecting community feedback and our continued evolution as an inclusive, welcoming gathering for all.
“October Fest is more than just food, music, and fun. It brings neighbors together, celebrates our diversity, and showcases the incredible talent and businesses that make Germantown and the Upcounty a special place to live. Events like this drive the economy in our Town Centers, while we enjoy gathering together as a community,”— Councilmember Marilyn Balcombe (D2)
“I’m thrilled that the Chamber was able to bring this wonderful event back to life last year and look forward to our community enjoying October Fest together again this year! We are grateful for the County’s support for our initiative to drive growth and activity in Germantown Town Center,”— Paula Ross, President & CEO of the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce
Event Highlights Include:
• Spooky Dance Party Contest – 11:00 AM 🎃
Kids and families are invited to kick off the day with a fun, Halloween-themed mini dance-off sponsored by BlackRock! Costume winners will be crowned Parade Marshals and receive tickets to a future BlackRock performance.
• Parade – 11:30 AM 🎺
Featuring Commanders Command Force, Major Tuddy, the Seneca Valley Marching Band, Northwest Poms, dance troupes, cultural groups, local businesses, and more — a vibrant kickoff down Century Boulevard showcasing Germantown’s diverse community.
• The MoCo Show Beer Garden 🍺
Sip and sample local brews from Waredaca Brewing, Lone Oak Brewery, Doc Waters Cidery, and Saint Rows Brewing. Plus, enjoy a Pop-Up Pumpkin Bar from BlackRock featuring seasonal cocktails and mocktails.
• BIG100 Live Stage 🎶
Sponsored by iHeart Radio’s BIG100, the stage will feature a headlining performance by Nine Days (“Absolutely (Story of a Girl)”), along with sets by Uncle Jesse and lively German music and dancers.
• The Harvest Hideaway 🪄
Sponsored by Sixx Cool Moms & Princess Parties of DC, enjoy magical family fun with performances by The Great Zucchini and characters like Elphaba, Glinda, K-Pop Demon Hunters, and more! Activities include face painting and pottery painting by We Art Fun.
• Free Children’s Carnival 🎡
Sponsored by Early Foundations, featuring rides and games for all ages from Great Kids Events.
• GGCC Business Expo 💼
Explore businesses serving the Upcounty region and learn about local services.
• BlackRock Artisan Market 🛍️
Shop unique items from local vendors while discovering Germantown-area businesses.
• Food Trucks & Local Specials 🌮
Savor global flavors from a wide range of food vendors right in Germantown.
• Community Organizations & County Agencies 🤝
Meet local leaders and connect with organizations from across Montgomery County. Stop by the Germantown Town Center tent for giveaways, check out its new brand from The Branded Co., and learn how to get involved.
The event takes place along Century Blvd., with the central hub on the BlackRock Center for the Arts lawn and surrounding streets. Shuttle parking and event logistics will be shared via the Eventbrite page — RSVP online to receive updates and key announcements.
Want to Win a Prize Pack Worth $500? 🎁
Attendees who RSVP by October 1, 2025, will automatically be entered into a drawing for an October Fest Prize Pack valued at $500+. (Must be 18+ to enter. No purchase necessary.)
Be a Part of the Celebration
Whether you’re dancing in the street, marching in the parade, or sipping cider with friends — October Fest 2025 celebrates everything that makes Germantown unique.
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RSVP now to attend, enter the prize drawing, and stay in the loop here.
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Want to participate? Click here to learn how to walk in the parade, join the expo, or become a sponsor.
About the Event
October Fest is organized by the Gaithersburg-Germantown Chamber of Commerce (GGCC) in partnership with Montgomery County Government, the County Council, and BlackRock Center for the Arts. The event is funded by a grant from Montgomery County’s Emerging Business District Program and is part of a three-year initiative evaluating a potential Business Improvement District in the Germantown Town Center.”
