Milwaukee Oktoberfest
Mayor Henry Maier was inspired by Oktoberfest in Munich. For the first time ever, Milwaukee Oktoberfest is now at Summerfest grounds!
Head over to the Milwaukee Oktoberfest website!
Friday dec 5th, 1924
John Kegel SR. OPENs a
“soda pop parlor”
Brewing Beer in basement, they install Stained Glass Windows keep onlookers from peering in
Schedule of Events
Here’s just a handful of the events we have planned. Follow the link to our full schedule of events.
Milwaukee Oktoberfest
October 2-4, 2026
Mayor Henry Maier was inspired by Oktoberfest in Munich. For the first time ever, Milwaukee Oktoberfest is now at Summerfest grounds!
AFTER PROHIBITION ENDS in 1933 - KEGEL’S INN REOPENs after remodeling AS
“THE LARGEST BEER HALL SINCE THE RETURN OF BEER”
Introducing:
KEGEL BRÄU
We're excited to Kick off our 100th Anniversary year with the Limited-Edition Beer Series, “Kegel Brau.” When Kegel’s Inn first opened in 1924, prohibition was in full swing. That didn’t stop John Kegel Sr. from opening “Kegel’s Place” a prohibition-era Speak Easy. Otherwise known as a “soda-pop parlor”, patrons could order lunch & a “basement beer” in the East half of what today is Kegel’s Inn.
In 2024, to celebrate our 100th anniversary, we are honoring the rebellious spirit of our ancestors by teaming up with local breweries, including Hofbrau Munchen, to make our own delicious German Prohibition-inspired beers!
Stay tuned for when
seasonal varieties hit the shelves!
KEGEL BRÄU
Explore our lineup of our delicious beer collaborations only available in 2024!
1940’s - with Prohibition over, war rages, & becomes time to say farewell to our german heritage, assimilation ensues.
1950’s - A few decades of relative stability are bestowed upon the Kegel’s operators. Fish fry is $4.95
centennial
merchandise
1960’s - Menu reflects american & German cuisine. setting the stage for the german specialties that are still available today.
1980’s - Menu upgrades include a new house specialty - Roast boneless duck & adds traditional fare like wiener schnitzel, goulash rouladen & hassenpfeffer
Introducing the "True Confessions: My Great Grandma Was a Criminal" T-shirt, a bold and nostalgic tribute to a bygone era. This limited release shirt pays homage to the daring spirit of my Great Grandma Anna, who, a century ago, fearlessly started selling beer & booze at Kegel’s Place, a “soda pop parlor” also know as a speakeasy during the Prohibition era.
Emblazoned with a vintage-inspired design that captures the essence of the twenties, this shirt is a stylish nod to the rebellious charm of the past while the comfortable tri-blend material ensures a modern and cozy fit.
Wear Milwaukee heritage with pride and share the intriguing tale of Kegel Brau and great grandma's criminal legacy with this one-of-a-kind T-shirt that seamlessly blends history, style, and a touch of mischief.
Printed locally by Orchard Street Press on soft tri-blend premium canvas material.