Beer fans rejoice, it’s that time of year again: Oktoberfest. Although the original party is in Munich, you don’t need to get on a plane to celebrate. As a booze-loving nation, there are plenty of events to attend right here on your doorstep. So dust off that lederhosen and get out your tankards because it’s time to drink like the Bavarians do.
Albert’s Schloss – 17th September – 3rd October
For the first time in Birmingham, Oktoberfest is coming to Albert’s Schloss, with the huge restaurant having only opened last year with the Paradise Circus redevelopment. The event will have Heart FM’s own Ed James and Gemma Hill tapping the first keg, bier flights, and dancers to provide entertainment for your increasingly sloshed self.
One Chamberlain Sq, Birmingham B3 3AX
Bierkeller – 14th – 15th October / 21st – 22nd October
Probably the most well-known German-themed bar in the UK, Bierkeller is the perfect place to celebrate Oktoberfest. With 4 events over 2 weekends, it’s going to be a big one. The Fridays nights and Saturday afternoons will each become 5 hours of DJ music, Bavarian fancy dress, and a live oompah band. If you’re looking for something to soak up all that beer, there will be hog rolls, schnitzel, and pretzels galore.
21-22 Essex St, Birmingham B5 4TR
Factory Works – 7th – 8th October
If you’re in the market for some German food, this event is the one for you. Teaming up with Seasonal Markets and The Old Crown, Factory Works’ 7th annual Oktoberfest event will be filled with good traditional food such as schnitzel and apple strudel. Of course, there will also be an abundance of beer, as well as German gin, wines, and themed cocktails. Alongside DJs and live bands, there will games to play (some traditional and some not so much) and a best-dressed competition.
Gibb St, Digbeth B9 4AA
Freedom Rooms – 17th September – 2nd October
Freedom Rooms is a new venue in Digbeth with a large beer hall that makes it very well suited for an Oktoberfest extravaganza. If you can’t wait for the Frankfurt Market in November to have a good bratwurst, you’re in luck, and you’ll have your pick of the beers to wash it down with. When the booze kicks in, try your hand at dancing to the oompah music that will be playing through the day.
91 Floodgate St, Digbeth B5 5SR
Zumhof Biergarten – 23rd – 24th September
Dubbed “Birmingham Vs Germingham” due to its taking place at the same time in both Birmingham and Germany, the Oktoberfest party at Zumhof is going to be crazy. The Ooomparty Band will be playing as well as DJs and dancers performing throughout the night. A ticket will get you a free 2 pint stein and a pretzel, with more free merch to be handed out as the night goes on. And I hope you’re hungry because there will be a hot dog eating competition!
29 Heath Mill Ln, Digbeth B9 4AL
