Big Bear Lake Maifest

Big Bear Lake Maifest returns as one of the most loved spring events in Big Bear Lake. This festive celebration brings a lively German inspired atmosphere to the mountains and welcomes visitors to gather at the Big Bear Lake Convention Center. Known as Oktoberfest’s little sister, Big Bear Lake Maifest blends joyful traditions with a fresh spring celebration that visitors and families enjoy every year.

A smiling man in a green hat and vest raises a large stein of beer for a toast at the Maifest festival.
Four friends in traditional German attire are raising their steins and smiling at the Maifest festival in Big Bear.
A group of people at Maifest are participating in a log sawing competition, with two individuals using a large saw to cut a log on a sawhorse while others watch.

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A Spring Celebration Visitors Love

The Big Bear Lake Maifest brings a joyful spring festival to the mountain area through its German-based traditions and active festival celebration. The Big Bear Lake Convention Center serves as the celebration venue where guests experience the community atmosphere. The event starts with America's Heroes Weekend which pays tribute to military personnel and law enforcement officers and firefighters.

What to Expect at Big Bear Lake Maifest

Guests visiting Big Bear Lake Maifest will experience a joyful and lively atmosphere throughout the celebration. The event creates a lively environment which allows guests to celebrate while experiencing the seasonal festivities.

Event Highlights
  • A festive German inspired celebration
  • Guests wearing traditional Oktoberfest clothing
  • A tribute to military members, law enforcement, and firefighters
  • Easy transportation using the Free Big Bear Trolley
Food & Beverages
  • Traditional German Springfest beers
  • Maibowle (champagne-style punch)
  • Bratwursts, homemade sauerkraut, pretzels, apple strudel w/ vanilla sauce
Entertainment
  • Live music by Ladyhosen and Die Sauerkrauts
  • Kids' activities: arts & crafts, balloon artists, bounce house, face painting
Contests
  • Log-sawing
  • Steinholding
  • Pol Schmücken maypole decorating

Travel Smart to Maifest!

A red trolley bus drives on a scenic road in Big Bear.

Guests can make their trip to the celebration easier by using the Free Big Bear Trolley, which provides complimentary rides to the Big Bear Lake Convention Center. Since parking is limited during the event, guests are encouraged to take the trolley, carpool with friends, or use ride services such as Jazzy Bear Ride Service.

Maifest – Big Bear Lake FAQs

Answer: Yes. The celebration welcomes all who want to participate from both visitor and local communities.

Answer: Yes. The Free Big Bear Trolley provides rides to the Big Bear Lake Convention Center.

Answer: Yes. Maifest is a German festival which people refer to as the smaller version of Oktoberfest.

Adventure Travel: Destination Big Bear!

Maifest Big Bear Lake is a lively German-themed spring festival celebrating culture, cuisine, and community spirit.With its authentic offerings and scenic setting, it's one of the top cultural events and a highlight among things to do in Big Bear Lake this spring.

  • Organizer: Big Bear Events

  • Venue: Big Bear Lake Convention Center

  • Location: Big Bear Lake, CA

  • Address: Big Bear Lake Convention Center, 42900 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315

  • Dates: May 23, 2026 – May 24, 2026

  • Time: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM

  • Tickets:  Click here to book your tickets

  • More Info:  Click here

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Event Details

  • Start Date 05/23/2026 1:00 PM
  • End Date 05/24/2026 8:00 PM
  • Status UPCOMING
  • Location Big Bear Lake, CA
  • Venue Big Bear Lake Convention Center
  • Address 42900 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
  • More Info: Click here

Add to Calendar

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Event Details

    0 days
    0 hours
    0 min
    0 sec
  • Start Date 05/23/2026 1:00 PM
  • End Date 05/24/2026 8:00 PM
  • Status UPCOMING
  • Location Big Bear Lake, CA
  • Venue Big Bear Lake Convention Center
  • Address 42900 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
  • More Info: Click here

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