How To Make The Most Of Edinburgh’s Oktoberfest

If you’re heading to Edinburgh during October you’re in luck, as the city is preparing to host its own version of Oktoberfest from October 5th to 9th. The event has a very Germanic atmosphere, with huge beer tents, giant steins (glasses) and even traditional beer all being shipped over from the continent.

To really make the most of the Oktoberfest celebrations, which will be taking place in Princess Street Gardens, check out our top tips for getting involved.

Plan ahead

Although you can just turn up and gain entry to the beer tent for a small fee, if you really want the full Oktoberfest experience you should book a spot at one of the tables at the front of the tent. This is a particularly good plan if you’ll be partying with a group as it means you can all sit together.

There are even packages available that include one of the aforementioned seats, two beers (in 1.5 pint sized glasses), snacks and a traditional German dinner.

For a really memorable evening, go VIP to sit in the best seats in the house and get a glass of sekt (a drink similar to champagne), as well as a special meal, in addition to what’s offered in the standard package.

Get ready to party

No Oktoberfest celebration would be complete without music and in Edinburgh, they’ve got this covered thanks to Albfetza, a German band who specialise in folk music. If you really want to be prepared before you go, look up a few songs - like Anton aus Tirol, Fliegerlied and Zikke Zakke - so you can sing along.

Dress for the occasion

Our final suggestion is to get into character by dressing in traditional German clothes. If you’re wondering where you’re going to find a pair of Lederhosen or a Dirndl dress in Edinburgh, don’t worry as the Oktoberfest organisers have got this covered.

They’re offering these outfits for sale and rental, so you can really get into the spirit of things by donning a costume and singing your heart out to the band as you enjoy your beer and pretzels.