My husband grew up around wiener-dogs, so when I told him about the opportunity to check out the dachshund wiener-dog races at Old World Huntington Beach, he was to totally on board. Through the U.S. Family Guide blogger program, we received admission for our family and a meal at the event.
Experience Old Europe
Old World Huntington Beach is a slice of old, traditional, Europe. Located right off the 405, it’s a unique gem in The OC. Since 1978, locals and tourists alike flock here to celebrate Oktoberfest, dine year-round at the award-winning German Restaurant, shop at the European Market, or drink authentic beer.
World Famous Wiener-Dog Races
Started by Inge McKellop, owner of ‘Paws at the Mill’, a specialty Dachshund retail store at Old World Village, the annual Dachshund Wiener-Dog race is one of the most popular attractions at Oktoberfest.
The dogs compete in four different weight classes, running in a straight line to their owner, at the finish line. The dogs are really fun to watch, as most of them are far from competitive.
Tips on viewing the race
The wiener dog races are held in the beer garden’s outside patio.
- Arrive early for a good viewing spot. Picnic tables surround the blocked-off area, so be sure to snag a spot for yourself well-before the start time of 3pm.
- Best viewing spot is at the finish line. It’s a bit difficult to see from the side, so if you have a small child, be prepared to hoist them on your shoulders so they have a view of the race if you didn’t snag that prime spot.
Friendly Dogs + Considerate Owners
We really enjoyed walking around, meeting dogs and their owners. I liked how clean the area was kept, despite the amount of dogs walking around (considerate owners cleaned up after their dogs). It was so fun to see the different coats and personalities of Dachshunds and the love the owners had for their pets.
Enjoy Oktoberfest
Enjoy authentic, delicious food, beer, and more at Old World. There was live music, a dance area, and “shot girls” walking around. Plenty of head-cutouts for fun photo opportunities, and only $5 for an all-day pass for the kid’s bounce house.
Video below from the Old World YouTube channel:
Dachshund Wiener-Dog Races at Old World Oktoberfest
Video from Old World website:
Old World is located at:
7561 Center Ave. #49
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Tickets for Oktoberfest are required to watch Dachshund Wiener Dog Races ($7 for adults, $3 kids 6-12, under 6 are free). No one under the age of 21 permitted without a parent or legal guardian.
Website for Dachshund Wiener Dog Races at Old World:
www.oldworld.ws/dachshund-races.html
Website for Old World:
www.oldworld.ws
Disclaimer: We attended as members of the media. All opinions are my own.
