It’s time to take your dusty lederhosen out of the bag because Oktoberfest is returning to Birmingham. With amazing German street food, oompah bands and lively performances, Birmingham’s hospitality venues are getting ready to welcome customers for an ale out party.
From The Old Crown in Digbeth to Heidi’s Bier Bar on Broad Street, the party hubs have planned several days of entertainment - including fancy dress and bratwurst eating competitions.
Everyone is encouraged to dress up for this German beer festival, which goes back to 1810. It was supposed to be a one time party in celebration of the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria, later became King Louis I, to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. However, it turned into an annual party in Munich, Bavaria and it has grown to be a global phenomenon.
Before you enjoy the German Christmas Market in Birmingham, you can enjoy a slice of German festivities at the Oktoberfest events this month. Here are eight places to enjoy Oktoberfest:
1. Oktoberfest comes to Albert's Schloss
From 16th September to 3rd October, Albert’s Schloss will be celebrating German heritage. They are bringing back the official keg tapping opening party and this time it will be with Ed James & Gemma Hill. There’s going to be the best beers, Oktoberfest themed showtime entertainment; oompah, brass and marching bands, Wiener eating competitions, Bavarian Feasts and Bier samples along with more fun and more party.
2. Oktoberfest at Heidi’s Bier Bar Birmingham & Aprés Ski Bar
You will experience an out of the ordinary authentic aprés-ski atmosphere including various beer taps, towers, Oktoberfest-style dancing on the tables and staff serving you in tyrolean dresses on September 14 from 4:00 pm to September 15 - 3am. Entrance Fee on the door: 4 PM - 10 PM (FREE), 10 PM - 12 AM(£3.00), 12 AM - 3 AM (£4.00). You can purchase the tickets on their website. (Photo - Kzenon - stock.adobe.com)
3. Oktoberfest at Luna Springs
Dust off your lederhosen and dabble in a day of dancefloor antics, fuelled by steins, sausages and zehr gut times for Luna Springs’ Oktoberfest brunches from 3-5pm on September 20, 5.30pm to 7:30 pm and for the mega party from 8:00 pm - 11:00 pm. The event will be repeated on October 7 and 14. Tickets cost £39.
4. Bierkeller, city centre
Bierkeller is Birmingham is hosting Oktoberfest every Saturday from September 16 to October 28. You can enjoy an afternoon of authentic Bavarian food, booze, bands and DJs as they spin, sing, stomp and dance the day away. Enjoy a live Oompah Show, take part in Bavarian Fancy Dress for which Dirndl & Lederhosen are encouraged. (Photo - Google Maps)