There’s no doubt that few nations know how to throw a party quite like Germany, and Oktoberfest is no exception. The world’s largest beer festival, Oktoberfest, draws over 6 million people a year to Munich, Germany for the Bavarian beer-drinking festivities. Of course not everyone has the time to make it to Munich but that doesn’t mean a single brewski lover must forgo the festivities.
Check out our list of the top Oktoberfest parties around the world that will make you feel all warm, fuzzy and German inside.
1. Kitchener-Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
The largest Bavarian festival in North America, the Oktoberfest in Kitchener-Waterloo is so popular that it’s been running a packed, successful event for over 40 years. Event goers can enjoy the biggest Thanksgiving Day Parade in all of Canada, over 15 festival tents with games, authentic German beers, and delicious traditional foods. There are also over 40 cultural family events happening throughout the course of the festival that range from hockey tournaments, cooking lessons and heritage performances.
Brisbane, Australia
As if there weren’t already enough reasons to visit the land down under, any brewski enthusiast has to make their way to Oz for their warm Oktoberfest celebration. Every year on Queensland’s east coast, Brisbane hosts everything from the Bavarian Strongman Competition and cowbell ringing to music, dancing, yodeler performances, and of course handcrafted Bavarian brews.
Blumenau, Brazil
You might be wondering what’s German about a place like Brazil but believe it or not the Brazilian town of Blumenau was founded in the 19th century by a small group of German immigrants. Attends can enjoy beers from local craft breweries at Latin America’s largest Oktoberfest celebration. Blumenau’s huge German Village Park has a distinct Bavarian atmosphere that’s said to be very similar to Munich’s own Oktoberfest grounds. You’ll want to make a b-line to the Biergarten and take your time to stroll through the tents, feast on your share of German and Brazillian cuisine, all while trying to grab some freebies from the bierwagen that makes its way through town.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Oktoberfest enthusiasts can enjoy a daylong celebration in the Dubai Sports City complex with nearby beach resorts hosting their own parties as well. Admission will be free to some events (including those held in the Sports City complex) if you show up in traditional German dress — think Lederhosen and Dirndl. Festivities include live German-inspired musical performances and dances, as well as indulging in delicious traditional food and drink.
Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong knows how to throw a party and Oktoberfest is no exception. The Chinese island hosts a lively and boisterous annual party at the Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel. Festival goers can enjoy traditional oompah bands, the Chinese’s take on pretzels and pork knuckles and famous, yet exclusive Löwenbräu Oktoberfestbier of which only 200 points are served each year.
Bangalore, India
India’s very own Oktoberfest is held in Bangalore at the beautiful Jayamahal Place and is put on by the popular Indian brewery Kingfisher. Spread across several stages, this event mixes music festival with flea market and culinary excellence. The musical performances are a sight to behold and the craft vendors and countless food stalls will keep you busy while ensuring you leave utterly satisfied.
Cincinnati, Ohio
Often regarded as “America’s Oktoberfest, ” the City of Cincinnati (or Zinzinnati) knows how to throw a Bavarian bash. When you arrive in town you’ll notice plenty of thirsty patrons decked out in their finest Dirndls and Lederhosen, as well as costumed racing dachshund pups who participate in the festival favourite, “Running of the Weiners.” Arrive early and enjoy the famous tapping of the keg to kick off the festival, and then partake in everything from the Beer Stein Race to the Beer Barrel Roll — you will not leave disappointed!
