Prost! Exploring The World’s Best Oktoberfest Celebrations
Oktoberfest has transcended its Bavarian roots to become a global celebration of culture, camaraderie, and, of course, beer
Every year, as summer fades into the cool embrace of autumn, beer enthusiasts and revellers from around the world eagerly anticipate Oktoberfest, a celebration of beer, bratwurst, and Bavarian culture. While Munich’s Oktoberfest remains the largest and most famous of them all, there are many other destinations that put on unforgettable Oktoberfest celebrations.
Oktoberfest finds its origins in Germany. Picture: Unsplash
Munich, Germany
The most iconic beer festival, Munich’s Oktoberfest needs no introduction. This festival, which typically runs from late September to the first weekend in October, attracts millions of visitors each year. Revellers don traditional lederhosen and dirndls as they gather in massive beer tents, enjoy hearty Bavarian cuisine, and raise a stein of world-famous German beer. Oktoberfest is the world’s largest volksfest which translates to ‘people’s festival’. From the ceremonial keg tapping to the vibrant parades, Munich’s Oktoberfest is a true bucket-list experience.
The beer festival celebrations are accompanied by various cultural events. Picture: FooTToo/Shutterstock
Blumenau, Brazil
Travel to Brazil’s charming Blumenau during Oktoberfest, and you’ll be transported to a little slice of Germany in South America. With a strong German heritage, the city goes all out with its Oktoberfest celebrations. The streets are alive with music, colourful parades, and traditional Bavarian costumes. Expect lively samba rhythms infused with German folk tunes, making this a unique and unforgettable fusion of cultures. Another quirky aspect of the event is the selection of a ‘queen of Oktoberfest’, who is chosen from 10 participants that partake in a pageantry involving catwalk, Q&A section and more.
In Blumenau, a ‘queen of Oktoberfest’ is chosen from 10 participants. Picture: Unsplash
Cincinnati, USA
Cincinnati, Ohio, boasts one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in the United States. This annual festival, first held in 1976, attracts over 5,00,000 people every year. Drawing inspiration from Munich’s event, Cincinnati Oktoberfest offers a vibrant mix of music, food, and, of course, beer. The highlight is the ‘World’s Largest Chicken Dance,’ where thousands of participants gather to dance to polka music. It’s a family-friendly affair, with games, rides, and entertainment for all ages.
Kitchener-Waterloo, Canada
Canada’s Oktoberfest in Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, is the largest Bavarian festival in the country. This 9-day extravaganza features over 40 family and cultural events, including beer tastings, parades, and live music. Visitors can enjoy the region’s rich German heritage, indulge in delicious food, and sample a wide range of local and imported beers.
Oktoberfest celebrations in Munch see large crowds gather at big beer tents. Picture: anandoart/Shutterstock
Qingdao, Shandong, China
Surprisingly, Shandong hosts an impressive Oktoberfest celebration. At Qingdao International Beer Festival, you can savour beers from across the globe experiencing a unique blend of Bavarian traditions and Chinese hospitality. The festivities include beer gardens, competitions, and lively performances. The Chinese Oktoberfest is an excellent example of how this beloved festival has transcended borders. Make sure to head to the Qingdao Beer Museum when you’re here.
Cape Town, South Africa
South Africa’s Cape Town embraces Oktoberfest with open arms with the Bierfest, where Newlands Brewery Village Green transforms into a Bavarian-style beer place, offering a distinctive take on the Bavarian celebration. Travellers and locals can enjoy a fusion of German beer, traditional cuisine, and local wines at this celebration.
It's time to say 'Prost' with Oktoberfest. Picture: Shutterstock
