I agree with you Adam that money is probably the reason.  I just took a look at the Bayfront Park's website and it still has the Oktoberfest listed as an upcoming event.  So, I'm assuming Fitger's just recently made the decision to move locations.  @rhetoricguy   I think the majority of the events are being held at Tycoons.  Which is a lot bigger than the Brewhouse but still not enough room for a "proper" Oktoberfest.

In the statement on Facebook from Tim Nelson and Rod Raymond about the move indoors they really don't explain why they are moving it for this year, but it seems like they are hinting toward the fact that its costs a lot and want it to remain free.



Achtung! The 3rd annual Oktoberfest Duluth takes place Friday, September 21 and Saturday, September 22 to coincide with the opening weekend of Germany's Oktoberfest in Munich!

Oktoberfest Duluth is moving festivities closer to the Brewery in 2012. With major excitement and fanfare, this year's event will radiate from Fitger's Brewhouse Brewery and Grille out to its taphouses; Tycoons Alehouse & Eatery, Red Star Lounge and the Burrito Union, with Tycoons serving as official festival headquarters.

From the first tapping and mayoral toast of Fitger's Brewhouse Oktoberfest lager to the famous Chmielewski Fun Time Band's polkas, the 2012 Oktoberfest Duluth again will bring out the beer drinkers and fun seekers. 

For a rapidly updating schedule of events, please visit oktoberfestduluth.com.

What about Oktoberfest Duluth's switch from Bayfront Park this year? Both the inaugural and the second years of Oktoberfest Duluth were held in Duluth's beautiful Bayfront Park. To help ensure the sustainability of the now regionally endeared event, Just Take Action, Inc, the mothership to Fitger's Brewhouse and its Red Star Lounge, Tycoons Alehouse, and Burrito Union, last month announced a one-year shift in venue into its own taphouses. In keeping with the vision of the original Oktoberfest Munich, Fitger's Brewhouse brewery continues to work with their friends at other craft breweries to also feature their amazing craft-brewed Oktoberfest lagers alongside its own. The Fitger's Brewhouse brewery believes that continuing the substantial financial and human resource investment into this free cultural event has value in its tremendous effect on the beer drinker's awareness about delicious craft beer and its effect on his/her local culture and economy.

And, believe it or not, planning is already underway for 2013 when the 4th annual Oktoberfest Duluth is hoped to again return to Bayfront Park. With an all-out effort to organize local and regional breweries and food vendors, everyone expects to enjoy an expanded return of Oktoberfest Duluth to Bayfront Park. With the continued support of Visit Duluth and other organizations charged with promoting Duluth tourism, this free major fall event will thrive for the enjoyment of visitors and locals alike!
Hope to see you all at Oktoberfest Duluth 2012, as this major cultural event builds upon long held traditions of regionally produced beer and its place in the community.

Prost!
Tim Nelson & Rod Raymond