LA CROSSE, Wis. (WXOW) – The tapping of the Golden Keg was on full display Friday morning at the Garden Stage on the Oktoberfest Grounds, drawing thousands of people hoping to get a taste of the keg’s contents.

This year, guests from all over the state came to the grounds to dance, drink, and all around have a great time.

Brent Smith, the 2025 Oktoberfest Festmaster, was excited for the weekend to come and said the Golden Keg is the perfect way to kick off the festivities while educating outsiders a bit on La Crosse.

“For those who are out of town, this is a way to learn a little about La Crosse and then take part in the pride we have in La Crosse,” Smith said. “This event is just—again, it’s a celebration and it’s going to be something!”

Past Oktoberfest royals were in abundance at

See Full Page