Where else do you see brass bands, carnival societies and fire brigades in full Bavarian dress marching past Central Park's stone wall? It's one of Fifth Avenue's most costume-dense parades, beloved by photographers and anyone warming up for Oktoberfest season. If you want a big free spectacle with an easy exit into the park afterward, stake out a spot along the upper 70s.
What to expect
About an hour and a half of floats, oompah bands and dance groups in lederhosen and dirndls moving up Fifth Avenue, with crowds thickest near the reviewing area. Many marchers and spectators funnel straight into Central Park afterward for the ticketed Oktoberfest at Rumsey Playfield.
Good to know
- Take the 6 to 68 St-Hunter College or the Q to 72 St and walk west to Fifth Ave
- The east side of Fifth Avenue along the park wall has the best sightlines
- Arrive before step-off for a front-row curb spot
- The Oktoberfest after-party in Central Park is ticketed separately
- Great for kids — lots of music, costumes and candy-friendly energy
- Street closures hit Fifth Ave and cross streets, so avoid buses through the UES
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Common questions
Where is the best place to watch the Steuben Parade?
Anywhere along Fifth Avenue between 68th and 86th Streets works; the park-side curb in the upper 70s tends to be less crowded than the start.
Is the parade free?
Yes, watching the parade is completely free. Only the Oktoberfest celebration afterward in Central Park requires a ticket.
