Waynesville Sauerkraut Festival 2025 | Crafts, Food & Family Fun

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The Ohio Sauerkraut Festival

A Tangy Celebration in the Heart of Waynesville

Each October, historic Waynesville, Ohio turns into a two-day celebration of fermented flavor, handmade craft, and small-town community spirit.

Waynesville, Ohio Second full weekend of October Free admission

From Humble Beginnings to Midwest Icon

What started in 1970 as a sidewalk sale with a single kraut dinner has grown into one of Ohio’s signature fall festivals. The inaugural event drew roughly 1,500 visitors and served just over 500 pounds of sauerkraut. Today, crowds top the hundreds of thousands, and nearly seven tons of kraut are dished up in classic and creative forms. Organized by the Waynesville Area Chamber of Commerce, the festival remains proudly community-run and nonprofit-powered.

1970 First festival

350,000+ Annual visitors

7 tons Of sauerkraut served

450+ Artisan & food booths

The Many Flavors of Kraut

The star is fermented cabbage—but the menu goes far beyond brats and Reubens. Expect tradition and invention: sauerkraut pizza, mac & cheese, burritos, and even brownies and pie. The cult-favorite “German Sundae” stacks mashed potatoes, kraut, cheese, bacon bits, and sour cream, crowned with a green olive.

Pro tip: Many vendors rinse and drain the kraut to mellow the tang. If you’re kraut-curious, start with a Reuben, then branch out to a sweet surprise.

Beyond the Food: Crafts, Culture, Community

The festival is as renowned for its juried artisans as it is for its food. More than 450 makers—from jewelers and woodworkers to glass artists and fiber designers—line Waynesville’s historic Main Street. Live music, friendly volunteers, and small-town charm round out a weekend that doubles as a homecoming for many visitors.

When & Where

Location: Downtown Waynesville, Ohio

Timing: Second full weekend in October (2025 dates: October 11–12)

Hours: Saturday 9:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.; Sunday 9:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

Good to know: Admission is free. Look for clearly marked shuttle lots and signage. Most food items run about $2–$10.

A Festival with Heart

Nearly every booth is operated by a local nonprofit, church, or civic group, with proceeds supporting scholarships and community programs. In a landscape of commercial mega-events, Waynesville’s Sauerkraut Festival stays intentionally homegrown—celebrating heritage, creativity, and the simple joy of gathering together.

Plan Your Visit

For maps, vendor lists, parking, accessibility, and updates, consult the official site: sauerkrautfestival.waynesvilleohio.com.