Oktoberfest, Dublin Style

While thousands of people flock to Germany for the annual Oktoberfest, it’s certainly not the only place to appreciate an authentic piece of Bavaria with the added delight of as much beer and meat as you can handle. 

This year, the German Oktoberfest runs between the 21^st September and the 6^th October, but while some people may be heading over the Channel to appreciate the fun of the festival, others will know that you don’t have to travel that far. 

In fact, all you need to do is head to the Irish capital of Dublin, where their equivalent Oktoberfest festival is held in unison, running between the 19^th September and the 6^th October. Book yourself in to one of the Dublin Travelodges and you can enjoy the atmosphere of this incredible event that’s part of the Dublin Festival season.

A marquee is erected in Georges Dock for the duration of the festival that is representative of the one that’s used in Munich for the real deal. German markets encompass the marquee, which sell a variety of speciality produce including meat, sausage, pastry, gingerbread hearts and Käsespätzle (cheese noodles). 

Get served a glass of Bavarian wheat beer by one of the traditional Oktoberfest barmaids, compete in the Bavarian Games Dublin 2013, where you can specialise in a whole host of disciplines, such as Schuhplattlern (a kind of traditional dancing), a yodel contest or even a test of who can carry the most steins. Alternatively, sit back and watch those who do join in the competition or enjoy the musicians, Die Alpen-show, who are scheduled to perform for the duration of the festival. 

Head online to see the availability of tables at the festival and reserve a spot for you and your party. A table for ten people is a mere 100€ and you can also book your chosen meal too. Choose to book on a Monday or Tuesday and you can receive a massive 50% discount on the table reservation! 

The Munich Oktoberfest may be in its 180^th year but if you don’t want to travel to Germany, the Dublin Oktoberfest equivalent is well worth a visit. Take a look at the hotels in the area and treat yourself to a long weekend this autumn.