Beer: According to the latest figures, Aussies drink up to a whopping 76 million litres of the stuff every year! Our appreciation for liquid gold may be an integral part of Aussie culture, but there’s another nation that gives us a run for our money… Germany. The Germans’ passion for good times and quality beer comes to a head every year during Oktoberfest, when thousands of revellers gather in Munich to enjoy a stein or several at one of the world’s largest folk festivals.
The good news is that the love of good beer is international and you don’t have to go far to get into the folk-fest spirit, as there are plenty of festivities taking place right here in Oz. So pop on your lederhosen or dirndl, grab your friends and head to one of the following Aussie Oktoberfest celebrations.
Elmar’s, WA
Elmar’s Microbrewery in WA’s Swan Valley is one of the biggest German establishments in the state. Set up by German migrants Elmar and Anette Dieren, their beer is so authentic it’s made to the exact standards of the Bavarian Purity Law of 1516 – even the malts and hops are imported from the motherland!
Elmar’s Oktoberfest celebrations are spread over three days in October, with food and beer galore. They take their version of the folk festival to new heights with classic German games like stein holding, bratwurst eating and tug-o-war taking centre stage. If you’re looking for a premium Oktoberfest experience, secure a spot in the VIP Beer Tent.
Bridge Road Brewers, VIC
A three-hour drive from Melbourne, Beechworth is a small, former gold-rush town in Victoria’s north-east. Today it is better known as the home of Bridge Road Brewers, one of Australia’s most awarded craft breweries, known for its innovative take on classic beers like porters, pilsners and Indian pale ales.
When Oktoberfest rolls around, Bridge Road founders Ben and Maria (the latter who hails from Austria and bakes a mean pretzel) follow Munich’s tradition and brew a special beer to mark the occasion, known as a Märzen. The party takes place on the brewery’s premises at The Old Coach House – a historic venue that perfectly recreates the atmosphere of a Bavarian beer hall.
Oktoberfest in the Gardens, Nationwide
Now in its sixth year, Oktoberfest in the Gardens is a great option for beer-lovers that can’t sneak in a weekend getaway. The festival is held in a number of capital cities across the country, including Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. Get in the mood by starting the day with your free stein before checking out the huge beer halls, which have an extensive range of imported German beer on offer.
Along with the seemingly never-ending flow of beer, there are roving performers, traditional German food stalls and music playing late into the evening. This day-long event will have you feeling merry in no time.
Hahndorf Inn, SA
Hahndorf is Australia’s oldest German settlement (dating back to 1838) and is just 30 minutes from Adelaide’s city centre. Oktoberfest is the biggest event on the town’s social calendar, so if you’re looking to party like they do in Deutschland, this is the place to be!
Every October the town transforms into a miniature Munich, with the main festivities taking place at the iconic Hahndorf Inn. Drink to your heart’s content, tuck into some delicious German food, and then show off your traditional German getup while you dance the night away to local folk bands!
*The hotel prices above are for double occupancy (including taxes and fees) and were found on KAYAK.com.au on 8 September 2016 for travel in October 2016. Prices may be subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
**The flight prices shown above are for one return economy seat (including taxes and fees, excluding baggage fees) and were collated on KAYAK.com.au on 8 September 2016 for travel in October 2016. Prices may be subject to change and offers may no longer be available.
Also Read>> On The Beaten Track: Experience These Iconic Festivals Around The Globe
