By world-class, we mean Brisbane’s Oktoberfest is one of the world’s best.
Update: Postponed until 2022. More information.
Outside of Germany that is, which is no mean feat because the world has plenty of Oktoberfest events. So, to be classed as one of the top ten around the globe by National Geographic, and for it to be back this year after a year off, has us frothing with anticipation.
The 13th edition will take place over six days across two weekends at the Brisbane Showgrounds which will be converted into a Mini Bavaria.
The Village will be complete with a huge 4000-square-metre Oktoberfest Tent, which the Bavarian Oompah band will help make merry with traditional and modern classics like ‘Fliegerlied’ and ‘Ein Prosit’, as well as the Marktplatz where visitors will be able to find traditional folk festival stalls, carnival games and rides, and all the pretzels, pork knuckle and wursts they can eat.
The entertainment continues with the Miss Oktoberfest Brisbane and Bavarian Strongmen competitions as well as an Autoshow displaying the finest of German motor engineering.
As festival tradition dictates, Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner will tap the first keg of Bier at the festival’s Anzapfen (Opening Ceremony). And all bier served will comply with the Bavarian Purity Law states, which states that bier must be made using only water, malt, hops and yeast. But if bier is not for you, then that’s okay too as Oktoberfest caters to all tastes, including those who don’t drink alcohol.
People are encouraged to dress the part as well, so get out your German clothing (aka Tracht) if you’ve got one. Otherwise, the basics for men are shorts with suspenders, an Alpine hat, classic socks, and a button-up white or checkered shirt. For the women, it’s a white blouse with an apron tied around your waist—just make sure you tie the knot on the right (taken) or left (single) side.
Brisbane Oktoberfest takes place on 8-10 and 15-17 Oktober. Fridays and Saturdays are action-packed—think about getting there early for a hearty Bavarian breakfast—while Sundays are more of a laid-back affair.
For more info and tickets, see the website.