Top Tips To Make The Most Of The British Oktoberfest Season

If you only have a passing acquaintance with Oktoberfest, then you might assume that it’s celebrated in Germany and involves drinking lots of beer. You would be quite right of course, but in recent years it’s also been surging in popularity here in the UK. Here’s a look at the history of the festival, the rise of Oktoberfest in Britain, and the best events to visit this year. 

You may even want to consider hiring a coach to organise a fun day out for a club, community, or just a bunch of like minded mates!

What’s Oktoberfest all about?

The Oktoberfest celebrations began in Munich, Germany, in 1810, as part of the celebrations of the marriage of Prince Ludwig, Crown Prince of Bavaria, to Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen.  The story goes that the couple enjoyed the party so much that they declared it to be an annual event.

Every year since, revellers have begun celebrations in Munich in mid-September that continue for the next 18 days. The festivities included horse races, food stalls, and as you have probably guessed, copious amounts of beer. Today, millions of people, including international visitors, descend on Munich for cultural and culinary experiences.

The 189th Oktoberfest will kick off with the traditional barrel tapping in Munich on 21 September and continue until 6 October. It’s described as the largest folk festival in the world, and it takes place on a 34.5 hectare site. There will be fairground rides, food stalls, parades, concerts, and vast beer halls. 

Oktoberfest in the UK

Don’t worry about missing out on the action if you can’t make it to the festival in Germany. The traditions of Oktoberfest have been embraced by the people of the UK; after all, it’s a perfect excuse for a beer or two with some added cultural interest—what could be more British than that?

There are now autumnal celebrations in almost every city where families and groups are welcome. It’s a chance to enjoy live music, authentic Bavarian food, and of course sample pints of craft beer. Here’s a look at some of the best events to catch this year.

Manchester Oktoberfest

Manchester has a reputation for being a party city, so it’s no surprise that it’s taken Oktoberfest to its heart. The event takes place from 10 to 12 October, and you can enjoy the fun and festival vibes in the city centre near Albert Square. Soak up the atmosphere with traditional food and beer and lively music. Don’t forget to wear your Bavarian costume!

The first Manchester event took place ten years ago in 2014, and since then it’s grown into a vibrant occasion that attracts over 10,000 visitors. There’s a giant beer tent at Sackville Street car park with authentic decorations and even the waiting staff are dressed in Lederhosen and Dirndl as they serve Bratwurst and pretzels with the pints.

London Oktoberfest

In the capital, there’s a wealth of events to choose from, including Oktoberfest Between the Bridges from 27 September to 12 October, set along the river Thames. There’s the Official Camden Oktoberfest from 28 September to 26 October, with a lively market, live music, and of course lots and lots of beer.

THere are bigger events featuring large beer halls and authentic German food taking place on the 17 and 19 as well as the 25 and 26 October. If that isn’t enough for you, there’s a Big Penny Social Party on 21 September featuring a German jukebox, and the obligatory authentic German beers and food.