Oktoberfest at Lafayette Village in Raleigh, including the 9th Annual Wiener Dog Races

Oktoberfest at Lafayette Village is an afternoon autumn festival in North Raleigh featuring live music, German food, and dachshund races. The European-style shopping center transforms into a festive plaza where parents can grab a seasonal beverage while kids look at the scarecrow displays. If you want to watch the dog races, arrive early to secure a spot around the courtyard perimeter, as the grassy areas fill up quickly. Admission to the event is free, though you will want to bring card or cash for food vendors and local boutique shopping. Parking is available in the main paved lot and the underground parking deck, but these spaces fill fast, so consider parking in the adjacent office lots if the main areas are full. This event makes a great weekend outing because it offers a lively atmosphere without requiring a full-day commitment. You can easily push a stroller through the paved walkways, grab lunch at one of the village restaurants, and let the kids watch the puppies run before heading home in time for afternoon naps.

Last updated July 31, 2026