Fall is in the air, which means it’s time for one of the season’s most beloved traditions: Oktoberfest.

One of the great things about living in Michigan is that we have plenty of spots to get in on the celebrations thanks to the German roots of many of our residents (fun fact: Germans are the largest ancestral group in the state).

Today, The ’Gander’s Sophie Boudreau takes us on a tour of seven upcoming Oktoberfest celebrations happening across Michigan.

Plus: I want your takes on how far the Lions will go this season.

Court strikes down Trump order keeping MI coal plant running (The Hill): A federal appeals court has struck down the Trump administration’s order forcing Michigan’s JH Campbell coal plant to stay open beyond its planned May 2025 retirement, ruling the Energy Department exceeded its emergency authority. The 64-year-old plant has cost roughly $259 million to keep running under the orders, with the court finding federal officials had not shown a qualifying emergency.

Missing 70-year-old found on Isle Royale (WOOD-TV): A 70-year-old hiker who went missing while on a solo trip to Michigan’s remote Isle Royale National Park was rescued Saturday after search crews found him injured and hypothermic. The multi-agency search began when his family reported him overdue.

Lions narrowly beat New Orleans (AP News): The Detroit Lions blew a 21-point lead but rallied to beat the New Orleans Saints 31-30 in overtime Sunday, surviving a missed field goal and a failed two-point conversion. Up next, the Lions play at Baltimore Sunday.

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Kick off fall with a few brews and plenty of fun at one of these events celebrating Oktoberfest in Michigan. (Yuhan Du/Unsplash)

By Sophie Boudreau

Now that Labor Day is behind us, we’re diving right into fall—no matter what the summer fanatics say. One of the most treasured autumn traditions in Michigan is a pastime that extends far beyond our state: Oktoberfest.

Most of us can’t hop on a last-minute flight to Germany to experience the beer festival in its hometown of Munich, but we can appreciate themed gatherings to celebrate Oktoberfest in Michigan.

Mark your calendars and grab your lederhosen, because it’s time to check out seven of the best Oktoberfests in Michigan for 2026. Our tour of German-inspired festivities features big cities, small towns, and plenty of flavorful brews. 

Want deeper coverage of Michigan politics? Our free Thursday newsletter, This Week in Michigan Politics, breaks down what’s happening in Lansing and Washington—clearly and without the jargon.

With the midterms approaching, we’ll keep you informed on what could affect your day-to-day life.

Interested?

The Detroit Lions started strong Sunday against The New Orleans Saints before a near-collapse, but a win is a win right?

Although it’s too early to say whether this season will potentially top 2024’s high or be more reminiscent to last year’s, I want to hear what you think anyway.

And I’m gonna keep track of this with a special shout out to the person (or people) who get it closest at the end of the season.

That’s why this week, I want to know:

Reminder: When responding, include your first name and where you’re from to have your answer included.

Have a question you want me to ask our community? Send it my way. I might feature it in a future edition.

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with a feature story from Sophie Boudreau. It was edited by Crystal Niforos.

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