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Benicia Oktoberfest Draws an Estimated 5,000 Attendees, Powered by More Than 200 Volunteers

An estimated 5,000 people gathered at First Street Green on Saturday, September 19, for Benicia Oktoberfest & Marketplace, up from approximately 4,000 attendees last year.

The Benicia Chamber of Commerce’s largest annual fundraiser brought together live music, German beer and food, local vendors, a larger Mega Kid Zone, the stein-holding contest and other Oktoberfest traditions on Benicia’s waterfront.

But behind the estimated 5,000 attendees was another significant number: more than 200 volunteers helped make the event possible.

“Seeing more than 200 people volunteer their time to help us welcome thousands of people to Benicia says something pretty special about this community,” said Randy Young, Executive Director of the Benicia Chamber of Commerce. “Our volunteers showed up in an incredible way, and we simply could not have done this without them.”

With a staff of three, the Benicia Chamber of Commerce relies on the people who step forward to make large community events possible. Chamber board members, Ambassadors and volunteers worked alongside staff throughout the planning and execution of Oktoberfest, with volunteers filling roles from setup and admissions to beverage service, guest assistance, contests and cleanup.

Oktoberfest was the second Chamber event this year supported by more than 100 volunteers, following The Great Benicia Run, which was supported by more than 142 volunteers earlier in 2026.

“There were so many people who gave their time, energy and expertise to make this day happen,” Young said. “Our board and Ambassadors rolled up their sleeves, our volunteers showed up by the hundreds, and our local businesses and community partners found ways to help again and again. We are deeply grateful. This was truly a community effort.”

The Chamber also extends its thanks to the many sponsors, local businesses and community organizations whose financial and in-kind support helped bring Oktoberfest to life, with special thanks to AMPORTS, Plan It Interactive, BPX Printing, Lions Club and Benicia Litter Pickers.

“Our sponsors invest not only in Oktoberfest, but in the work the Chamber does for Benicia’s business community throughout the year,” Young said. “We are incredibly grateful for that support and for every business and organization that chose to be part of this event.”

For Young, the success of the event also offered thousands of visitors a chance to experience Benicia.

“We hope people came for Oktoberfest, discovered our waterfront and our businesses, and left understanding a little more about what makes Benicia such a special place,” Young said. “To our volunteers, sponsors, businesses, board members, Ambassadors, community partners and everyone who joined us: thank you, Benicia.”