7 Reasons to Attend London Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is the world’s largest Volksfest. What’s a Volkfest, you ask? It’s a ginormous beer festival and travelling funfair. Where do we sign?!

It takes place every year in Munich, Bavaria, and Germany over 16 to 18 days, running from mid or late September to the first Sunday in October. It attracts a staggering crowd of over six million people from around the globe every year. It’s a significant part of Bavarian culture, having been going strong since the tradition first began back in 1810. 

It’s no wonder that other cities across the world also now hold Oktoberfest celebrations in line with the original event. And we’re pleased to say that London has one of (if not THE) best outside of Germany (or even including the one in Germany, to some die-hard London-lovers). 

Unconvinced? We thought you might be. So we’ve put together a list of reasons why you absolutely have to check out this beer-swigging, schnitzel-stuffing event. Prost!

Flying in for the weekend? Check out great Heathrow hotel deals early on to save as much cash as possible. 

All the beer!

How else would we start?! And we’re not talking tiny, watered-down £9 pints you’re likely to find in stuffy pubs.

These are in STEINS, sure to be your new favourite way to drink.

There is a multitude of different beers available on site in the beer tents, including specially-brewed options made with this event in mind back in Bavaria. And who could forget the 5% ABV and the infamous Bavarian Craft Beer? They are especially transported just for London partygoers, and you’ll be pleased to know there’s a ‘purity law’ that applies to every drop, so you know that these guys mean business. Not into beer? Have no fear! There are loads of other options too, from sparkling wine, champagne, cider, cocktails and, most importantly, Underberg (Schnaps). 

All the food!

Need something to soak up all the alcohol? Don’t worry – the menu has everything you need to keep you partying (and full) all night long before you collapse back at the Park Grand Heathrow hotel.

As you can imagine, you’ll get the chance to stuff yourselves silly on traditional German fare, including bratwurst, schnitzel and brezel. In recent years, due to the increase in popularity of plant-based diets, veggies and vegans will be pleased to know there are plenty of options now for you too. Keep your eyes peeled for gluten-free and halal options, also. 

The fanciest of dress

Been dying for an excuse to don the lederhosen? Thought so, and your secret is safe with us.

Fancy dress is a huge part of this experience, so much so you’re more likely to stick out if you HAVEN’T gone to town on the traditional German garbs. You don’t have to splash out on super authentic threads – an eBay job will do just fine. 

Great music

Another way the London Oktoberfest manages to emulate the buzzing atmosphere of the Bavarian original is through music.

 As well as top DJs, also joining the setlist are classic German bands who will be flown in especially for the occasion to rock out with live music to help keep the vibes going as the schnitzel kicks in.

Get swept up in the fun and infectious atmosphere in the main beer tent, where the long tables are lined up so you can meet new friends or party with your loved ones and enjoy Ompha-Ompha music. Also, dancing on the tables is not only allowed, but it’s also highly encouraged, so get your fill.

After dancing the night away, check into your budget hotel near Heathrow airport and relax knowing you haven’t got to travel far to get your flight on a hangover! 

Overall good vibes

As mentioned, the atmosphere really is something else at London’s Oktoberfest.

Everyone gets stuck into the party vibe, and while you don’t have to go overboard on the gigantic steins, you won’t find it hard to find yourself getting lost in the celebrations. This event is fun, lively and informal enough to act as a host for everything from after-work drinks, to stag and hen do’s to even a first date, if you’re feeling particularly bold. Get ready for some super loud singing (you’ll soon find yourself singing along even if you don’t know a word of German – don’t ask, it just happens) and dancing (remember – get on the tables) at this unique and incredible event.

Throw yourself into the experience and you won’t leave disappointed. 

Get ready to get spooky

Heading to London over Halloween and don’t want to miss out on the spooky yet boozy fun? Well, now you can combine the two. For the first time, there will be Oktoberfest Halloween celebrations at their West Kensington site to help you see in the scary season in Bavarian style.

As it’s a first, tickets are sure to book up really swiftly, so if you’re interested in this option, book as early as possible. And make sure you’ve got enough time to ‘spooky’ up your lederhosen! 

It’s at London’s top locations

It’s fair to say that London’s Oktoberfest gets pretty busy. In fact, it plays host to over 50,000 visitors every year.

So, to make this more manageable and fun for all involved, it’s spread out across a few different sites, though you’ll be pleased to know they’re all in great spots. Ensuring an authentic Oktoberfest experience, Millwall Park will host 2,500 in the Oktoberfest tent, while Finsbury Park’s beer tent will have 3,000.

Though never fear – famous German efficiency is as prevalent here as it is back in Bavaria, so you don’t need to worry about waiting ages and ages for a stein (though you may have to wait a teeny bit, but come on, it’s London). Depending on the ticket option you book, you’ll be allocated a seat so if you’re super pumped on having a roaring, boozy eve, try to cement yourself by the bar. Thank us later. Have we convinced you? If so, book your accommodation at Park Grand Heathrow hotel for a whistle-stop stay in London for Oktoberfest.