It's that time of the year again. The leaves start to change colors, sweaters come out of the back of the closet, and men and women's thoughts turn to...beer. I don't know about you, but I love Octoberfest. While I've never been to Munich for the OG of Octoberfests, there are plenty of places to celebrate nearby. No Octobefest is complete without some kick-ass tunes to go along with the food and celebration. That's where you come in.
We have 5 gigs across the US looking for great bands to play their Octoberfest parties. Here's the rundown:
Augusta, Michigan October 5-6: This new venus is known for Blackrock Medieval Festival that just celebrated its second year. This is the first year for October fest, and is promising to be a great time for families. Selected artists get a percentage of the front gate, and bands keep 100% of all merch sold and tips earned.
Apply to play
Cambridge, Massachusetts October 13: Celebrating it's 35th year, This annual festival is held in the heart of Harvard Square. 5 stages and an average attendance of over 200,000 people, this is a perfect opportunity to play for new audiences and get more fans.
College students are the future tastemakers of tomorrow. Play for them now while they're in the most concentrated social environment of their lives, and you will benefit from their social networks.
Play this festival and you get featured year round on their website, get great press coverage in print and online, and tables to sell your merch all day long.
Apply to play
Columbia, Missouri, October 5: This paid gig is a more straightforward German Band opportunity. If you've got your Oom and your Pah geared up, this one's for you. It's time to get these people up out of their seats and polka-ing off all the sausage and schnitzle they just ate. Lederhosen not required.
Apply to play
These two opportunities are already closed, but keep them in mind for next year:
Walla Walla, WA, October 1: If you're in Washington State, it's worth trekking over here for this event. More than just onions and apples, Walla Walla has the great Steakhouse and Lounge at CrossRoads. Expect a family crowd of around 50-60 folks ready to hear some great German and Bavarian music.
Boston, MA, October 4th: Harpoon is looking for a German Oompa (polka) band to perform at its 19th annual Octoberfest and kick off the New England fall season in Harpoon style! The festival takes place inside the Harpoon Brewery - the largest brewery in Boston!
The event features three stages of music, food vendors selling traditional German food, cash bars offering a selection of fresh Harpoon and UFO beer. This is your chance to perform in front of a great audience of 2,000+ people as they come dance, enjoy Harpoon beer, and celebrate New England style Octoberfest!
What's your favorite Octoberfest party? Tell us in the comments below!