GermanFest Steinholding Contest
Missoula will raise a stein to friendship, heritage and fall fun when Germanfest returns to Caras Park on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026. Presented by Arts Missoula and Bayern Brewing, this annual celebration brings a lively taste of Bavaria to downtown Missoula.
Guests can enjoy live music, German beer, savory brats, warm pretzels and ice cream. Family games add to the welcoming atmosphere, making Germanfest an easy outing for festivalgoers of all ages. Whether visitors come for the food, music or cultural traditions, they will find plenty of reasons to stay and celebrate.
A Festival Rooted in Friendship
Germanfest began in 1993, when the mayors of Missoula and Neckargemünd, Germany, signed a Pledge of Friendship. The agreement formalized a sister-city relationship inspired by University of Montana Professor Jerry Fetz and University of Heidelberg Professor Erich Pohl. Both professors received Fulbright Awards and traded places during the 1990–91 academic year.
Since then, the partnership has encouraged educational, civic and cultural exchanges. Nearly 400 young people from Missoula and Neckargemünd have spent time in one another’s cities, schools and homes. Germanfest honors those enduring connections while inviting the entire community to share in German culture.
Steinholding Takes Center Stage
One of the day’s biggest attractions will be the Montana State Steinholding Championship finals. Qualified competitors will hold a full one-liter beer stein straight in front of them for as long as possible. They cannot bend their arms or spill the beer. The challenge sounds simple, but it quickly becomes a dramatic test of strength and endurance.
A winner from both the men’s and women’s divisions will advance to the national championship in Cincinnati, Ohio. Spectators can cheer on the competitors and enjoy one of Germanfest’s most spirited traditions.
Volunteers play a central role in keeping the celebration running smoothly. Arts Missoula welcomes community members who want to help set up, serve guests and support the festivities.
Germanfest offers a joyful blend of Missoula hospitality and German heritage. Gather friends and family, head to Caras Park and celebrate a friendship that has connected two communities for more than three decades throughout the festive afternoon.