Gold Fire Surges, Oktoberfest Draws Crowds in Big Bear Lake

Lead The Gold Fire burning north of Big Bear Lake more than doubled overnight to 991 acres, prompting road closures and evacuations, while the Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest kicked off its second weekend on Saturday, September 13, 2025.

Nut Graf The simultaneous escalation of wildland fire activity and a major community festival underscores Big Bear’s ongoing challenge of balancing public safety with local traditions. As firefighters battle the blaze in steep terrain, residents and visitors are adjusting plans for the popular Oktoberfest celebration.

Wildfire Growth and Response

  • Rapid Expansion: The Gold Fire, ignited earlier this week, jumped from under 500 to 991 acres in one night due to low humidity and gusty winds, with containment holding at just 25% by sunrise.
  • Closures and Evacuations: Forest Service Roads 3N10 and 3N32 were closed, and a Level 2 evacuation warning was issued for cabins north of Holcomb Valley Campground.
  • Resources Deployed: More than 200 personnel-including five helicopters and 15 engines-are engaged in aerial retardant drops and ground line construction to protect residences and critical infrastructure.
  • Safety Measures: Residents are urged to monitor alerts, maintain defensible space around properties, and heed directions from the San Bernardino National Forest and CAL FIRE teams.

Oktoberfest Celebrates Fall Tradition

  • Weekend Two Festivities: The 55th annual Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest drew an estimated 3,000 attendees to the Convention Center from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., featuring German bands, traditional beer sampling, and family-friendly contests.
  • Economic Boost: Local businesses reported a 20% uptick in weekend foot traffic, with hotels reaching 85% occupancy and restaurants extending hours to accommodate visitors.
  • COVID-Safe Protocols: Organizers implemented hand-sanitizing stations and encouraged outdoor seating to minimize crowding, drawing praise from county public health officials.

Ongoing Precautions and Outlook

  • Air Quality Concerns: Smoke from the Gold Fire led to a “Moderate” AQI rating in Big Bear Lake, prompting advisories for sensitive groups to limit outdoor exertion.
  • Forecast and Fire Behavior: A cooling trend with isolated showers is expected Monday, offering relief, but fire crews remain on high alert for potential flare-ups under dry, windy conditions.
  • Community Coordination: The Sheriff’s Department and Big Bear Lake Fire Authority continue to coordinate road patrols, visitor information, and emergency response plans as both events unfold.

Despite the challenges posed by the wildfire, Big Bear Lake’s community spirit and autumn festivities persist, highlighting the resilience of this mountain town amid evolving conditions.