Big Bear Lake Convention Center Office — Attraction in Big Bear Lake

My family and I started attending the Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest several years ago. This event is a Fall tradition with a building built to look like a tent with authentic German bands, food, deserts and of course many incredible imported beer selections like Franziskaner Hefe-Weissbier and Hofbräu München. FIRST I have to compliment Kasandra, manager of the Oktoberfest. We had several interactions with her during the 2022 Oktoberfest after attending multiple times throughout September-October. She is kind, gracious and an incredible host!

My mother was an ethnic German and incredible chef. You can taste and see the attention to detail in the Bavarian recipes and their quality dishes at Oktoberfest. This isn't "German fair food" like I have had at other venues, but top quality, authentic Bavarian food. Outside there are other venders for a variety of other fast and ethnic foods. The bar tenders are also awesome and the venue allows bringing your own Steins to fill (and refill). Oktoberfest also has quality gifts such as Steins and German themed gifts in their gift shop.

Short of visiting Munich or an entire city Oktoberfest like Leavenworth, Washington, Cincinnati, Ohio or Helen, Georgia, Big Bear Lake offers a wonderful experience with great hospitality in an incredibly...

Events are too expensive for what is offered. Oktoberfest is a giant mess, from the nonsense ticket system of paying for drinks to the poorly run food stalls. And don't even get me started on the nightmare that is working here. I understand it sucks when your food comes out cold or just not tasting good, but don't take it out on the worker. 90% of the time, if you're here, it's the fault of some shoddy management decision. They regularly blame employees for shoddy equipment, not enough inventory, etc., and tell them to work through it. Last year one day the stove at one of the stations wouldn't go above like 120 degrees, but all the management could tell them to do was make due. Didn't try to close it down for a minute to sort out the stove, just decided to serve people cold food. Avoid this...

I have been a resident of Big Bear for 10 years and a mountain resident for 17 years. I attended this years 2018 Independence Day Fair at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center and it was by far the Best overall event I have experienced living here on the mountain. There was something for all ages and and truly a wonderful community event. The vendors were fantastic (many from the local Tuesday farmer's market), the food delicious, and the prices affordable for all. The atmosphere was truly "All American", congenial and fun! The music was also so fitting for the Independence Day celebration. I do hope the Convention Center gives thought to doing this type of event every Saturday so that all, visitors and locals can participate in this wonderful experience. Roxanna...