Oompah! Our favourite beer-focused holiday is almost upon us. Not that we need an excuse to drink copious large glasses of Bavarian beer, don lederhosen and tuck into a big ole’ bratwurst. But the Oktoberfest celebrations taking place in Birmingham this autumn do help. From oompah bands playing German folk music hits (Did someone say: Wo sind die Hände?) to keg tapping parties taking place, join the stein-swigging festivities between September 16 and October 3, 2023. Here’s our guide to some of the best places to celebrate Oktoberfest with a foaming pint of wheat beer. Prost!
1. Albert’s Schloss
Birmingham’s Bavarian bar and restaurant is pulling out all the big biers for Oktoberfest. Albert’s Schloss is hosting two weeks of entertainment too, from a keg tapping opening party to oompah bands, wiener eating competitions and plenty of Bavarian feasts. The opening party on September 16, kicks things off with flowing steins, the sounds of Albert’s Oompah band and plenty more debauchery.
The keg tapping continues on September 22 for the Apres-Work Keg Tapping party. With a fresh selection of kegs bursting open, there’ll also be an early Friday Frolich showtime from the Albert’s Brass Band, the infamous Haus Band and DJ sets alongside bier tasting, wiener samples and more. To learn about all the celebrations head here.
2. Birmingham Seasonal Markets
Taking place a little later than the official celebrations, Birmingham Seasonal Markets hosts an Oktoberfest Food Fest on October 7. Prepare for a mouthwatering celebration of hearty foods, German beers, and a lively atmosphere. The best of Birmingham’s vibrant street food scene will be curating a menu full of Oktoberfest specials. From bratwursts to chicken schnitzels and everything in between, treat yourself to the likes of Nanny Bills, Fat Snags, Yardbirds, Mac OG, That’s Mature, Filthy Butties, Kebab Cartel, Surf & Slice and Baked in Brick.
But that’s not all! The Oktoberfest Food Fest will also have a beer hall, showcasing an impressive lineup of German beers, as well as live music from Head Rush Brass Band playing your favourite German songs. Get ready to dance, sing along, and revel in the Bavarian spirit. Stretch the celebrations a little longer at The Bond this Oktoberfest! There will be two sessions available, 12pm – 4pm and 4:30pm – 8:30pm, with tickets £7.50.
3. Luna Springs
The outdoor bar, Luna Springs, is throwing three huge Oktoberfest parties on September 30, October 7 and 14. Bringing the ultimate Oktoberfest vibes, the bar will be refitted with Bavarian decor, serve up authentic German lager and play funky Oompah bangers with a brassy twist. You’ll be singing, spinning, and stomping on the tables in no time. Tickets are £10 each and include one stein on entry.
Also on these days, Luna Springs will be throwing two sessions of their Oktoberfest Brunch. With 90 minutes of bottomless booze, an Oktoberfest-themed dish and music from the live band. Tickets cost £39. To learn more about all these Oktoberfest celebrations head here.
4. Zumhof Biergarten
It’s no surprise that this German-inspired establishment in Birmingham would be celebrating with an Oktoberfest party. Zumhof Biergarten is throwing a massive celebration on September 30. Kicking off at 4 pm, the celebrations run ‘til 2am.
Music will be provided by Heavy Beat Brass Band performing live music, alongside resident DJ Luke McGovern. Expect Bavarian hosts and dancers, bratwurst eating competitions, confetti drops, keg tapping, free merch and so much more! While fancy dress and lederhosen are encouraged! Tickets are £15 and include a 2-pint stein of bier and a fresh pretzel. Get your tickets here.
5. Bierkeller
Why go to Germany when Germany can come to you? Celebrate a day of beer-fuelled fun at Birmingham Bierkeller. Kicking off September 16, the Bavarian bar is throwing an Oktoberfest party every Saturday until October 28. That’s six weeks of lederhosen and steins! Expect a Bierkeller twist on classic Oompah-inspired songs and games, live music and an afterparty that goes until the early hours! Learn more here.
6. The Old Crown
Do you like German beer? Good! Oktoberfest is back at Birmingham’s oldest pub, The Old Crown. On October 14 and 21, they’ll be celebrating the event with live brass bands from Birmingham Conservatoire, as well as local favourites Heavy Beat Brass Band. The pub garden will also be transformed into a Bavarian beer hall, serving up German-themed street food and steins full of tasty German beer. Tickets start at £5.