Oktoberfest returned to Dublin’s financial district on Thursday, September 17th and will run until this Sunday, October 4th.
Oktoberfest, also known as Volksfest in Germany, is the world’s largest beer festival and travelling funfair. The 16-day event originated in Munich and attracts over 6 million visitors every year.
The historic festival, celebrating its eighth year here in Dublin, honours the best of German food, beer, folklore, music and dance.
Oktoberfest in September?
This follows the tradition of the original Oktoberfest which began in late September in Munich, and has now been running for 182 years consecutively. Fact: veteran beer vendors in Munich take on average 1.5 seconds to pull a pint of beer.
How much does the event cost?
The event is free to enter and is open to everyone over the age of 18 (children are permitted, but must be off the premises by 7pm). Seeing as this is Oktoberfest’s final weekend in the capital it’s expected to be very busy, as is the queue to enter – so the earlier you arrive the better.
Beer and food prices vary, but it will cost €17 for your first pitcher of beer because everyone must pay a €5 deposit for the glasses. Your deposit is returned when you hand back your glass. Small glasses of beer are also available at €6.50, but if beer is not your thing, there is a full bar service available.
Although the drinks may seem expensive, you are not only paying for the alcohol, but the overall experience of the festival. Authentic German cuisine like sauerkraut, bratwurst sausages, and haxn is also served and starts from €5.
What happens once I’m inside?
The event is laid out with a number of tents, a large stage where daily entertainment takes place (with a DJ every evening), and seating areas.
The seats are on a first-come-first-served basis, but you can make a reservation online by clicking here to book a table in the main tent.
Opening times are as follows:
Monday – Wednesday: 12.00pm – 11.30pm
Thursday – Saturday: 12.00pm – 00.30am
Sunday: 12.00pm – 10.30pm
Follow @Oktoberfestdub to find out more about the festival and upcoming competitions.
Photo: @Oktoberfestdub/ Instagram