Oktoberfest Brisbane

Oktoberfest Brisbane sees part of the Brisbane Showgrounds transformed into a Bavarian village for a celebration that has been voted as one of the world's top ten Oktoberfests outside of Germany - and it's the next best thing to taking a flight to Germany.

For two whole weekends in October, happy crowds of all ages, many of them in Tyrolean hats, Lederhosen and Dirndl, descend on the gates at opening time, only to leave twelve hours later after an unforgettable day of chicken dances, leg slapping, Bratwurst and pork knuckle gnawing, yodelling and cow bell ringing.

For once ensconced in the Oktoberfest Tent, with traditional Bavarian Oompah band 'Münchner Buam' rolling out the barrel, yodeller 'Heidi' doing her stuff and the Alpenrosen Dance Group (from Brisbane) in full swing, it's easy to forget what time it is or that you're in Brisbane at all.

For those who take their Oktoberfest seriously, there's the chance for Fräuleins to be crowned Miss Oktoberfest Brisbane, strapping Herren to win the Bavarian Strongman Competition and the bearded to take out the Beardmeister title.

For a taste of true Bavarian hospitality, kick off Oktoberfest Brisbane on Saturday mornings with a hearty traditional Bavarian Breakfast* (2 plump, white meat & herb sausages with freshly-baked pretzel, sweet mustard and a wheat beer), just like a true German local.

During the day, take a wander through the market food stalls to feast on some delicious Bratwurst, Pork Knuckle (Schweinshaxe) and sauerkraut, pretzels (giant and small), strudel, jam-filled donuts, gingerbread hearts and Black Forest cake (Schwarzwälder Kirsch Torte) whilst being entertained by the roaming street performers.

Inside the giant main marquee, join in the lively all-day-and-evening-long festivities with chicken dancing, a real Bavarian oompah band, yodelling and singing German traditional songs with a stein of beer in hand.

And, for some time out, head outside to the happening Biergarten, which features genuine Munich Oktoberfest wooden benches and tables under the Moreton Bay fig trees.

Lager (Helles) and wheat beer (Weissbier) is exclusively crafted by the 345 year old Tucher Brau (Brewery) in Northern Bavaria and flown in for the occasion, while the German-style Dark Beer (Dunkelbier) is handcrafted by Burleigh Brewing Co. All beers are crafted in accordance with the 503-year-old Bavarian Purity Law (Das Reinheitsgebot), which states that beer must be made from four ingredients.

And for wine drinkers, there's a variety of red, white and sparkling German wines (sekt) available, with premium German winery Brogsitter showcasing their 400-year wine-making expertise for all to enjoy.

Meanwhile, the non-stop program of entertainment includes live bands, Human Foosball Ride, fun competitions and dancing, dirndl and lederhosen fashion parades, a German choir, and the Kasperltheater Puppet Show (based on a famous German character, dating back to the 17th century).

Oktoberfest Brisbane is also a great place to release your inner child, with amusement rides (free for all on Friday nights and free for kids on both Sundays) including 360 Dance Party, Flashdance, dodgems and a jumping castle.

Oktoberfest Brisbane is also a family-friendly affair, with the Kinder Zone for kids of all ages. Attractions this year include baby animal petting zoo, puppet theatre, face painting and more... And there's FREE RIDES for all minors throughout the day on both Sundays!

*Bavarian Breakfast is served in the Bayrische Eck (Bavarian Corner) on Saturdays between 11am & 12.30pm for A$25 and C$13 when you book ONLINE or for $27 and $15 when you purchase at the Festival on the day.

Need to know: Entry is only at the Gregory Tce gate. All rides are free on Fridays. Oktoberfest Brisbane is a cashless affair, so before you go, set-up your digital wallet.

Nice to know - Parking is available at Brisbane Showgrounds. Visit the Brisbane Showgrounds for full parking details and options.

Oct 11-13, 18-20

Fri 4pm-midnight, Sat 11am-midnight, Sun 11am-8pm (Family Day). Entry stops 1 hr before close

Tickets - $23.40-$176 CU18 Free

Oktoberfest Brisbane is a valued partner of Must Do Brisbane.com