All you need to know as Oktoberfest returns to Edinburgh for 2024 – music, beer, food and more this October
We Scots love to party, and the 200,000 fans who travelled to Germany this summer proved just how much fun they could have in the host nation – so now it’s time to return the favour.
Say Prost! to Oktoberfest, which will be hosted at West Princess Street Gardens this October for four days – other nationalities are of course invited!
Here a big tent will be transformed into an authentic Bavarian experience, with steins of imported German beer, beautiful Bratwurst and thumping tunes among the treats on offer.
The Oktoberfest atmosphere offers something different, but the emphasis is on socialising and having fun with friends and colleagues mixing beer, music, food, drinking, dancing, dressing up. And whilst it’s strictly for adults most of the time there’s even a family-afternoon, where kids can get in free and enjoy a taste of the atmosphere.
With a capacity of 1,000 people tickets will be in demand for the event, which is here for four days. We got the lowdown on everything you need to know to get ready to make the most of the 10th Oktoberfest here in Edinburgh.
Oktoberfest takes place October 3-6 inclusive
Times: Thursday and Friday – 4pm to 11pm; Saturday 11am to 4.30pm and 5.30pm to 11pm; Sunday 12.30pm to 7.30pm.
Food and drink: There will be a specially-brewed and imported Bavarian beer and traditional Oktoberfest food including Bratwurst, Schnitzel and Pretzels.
Music: A German band will play live music from Oompa tunes to great German Schlager, and there’ll be a DJ playing British and German pop music – so be ready for the dancefloor
Dressing up: Dress as you like, but expect to see people get into the real spirit in dirndl and lederhosen (because that's how they dress at Oktoberfest) – you can even hire an outfit from the venue.
What is Oktoberfest?
If you’ve never been before you’re in for a treat. Oktoberfest is a German tradition which started in Munich over 200 years ago after the marriage of a Bavarian king. What started as a wedding celebration (which lasted several days) became an annual event and grew from a one week to a two-week party with revellers enjoying beer, food, music and dancing.
In Munich millions attend the event every year, and the festival includes many tents, funfair rides, and lots of beers and food.
Who is it for?
Friends, partners, colleagues and more – as long as you’re over 18 you can get a ticket. It’s great for a get-together, a works outing or a fun few hours with your loved ones. Oktoberfest is about enjoying yourself with those around you – it’s where old friendships are toasted and new ones are made. Expect a lively, convivial atmosphere – with plenty of dancing!
What if I don’t like beer?
Of course the beer (a specially-brewed Bavarian beer in this case) is the star of the show, served in traditional handled stein glasses (which hold two pints). It’s delicious and if you like beer you’ll love this. But there will be a choice of drinks available including soft drinks, cider, wines, prosecco and spirits. And there’s the food, music and lively chat to entertain too.
Is it for families?
Whilst the event is strictly for over 18s only from Thursday to Saturday, all that changes on Sunday afternoon when Oktoberfest throws open the tent to families – children go free with paying adults, so you can bring the kids along for a bite to eat and a dance.
Do I have to book?
Tickets will be available on the door, but be warned, with 1,000 capacity you may be disappointed if you leave it until the day. You can pre-book tickets and find out more information on the website here.