Oktoberfest started in 1810 as a celebration of King Ludwig I of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen’s marriage. It produced so many joyful moments that it quickly became a yearly event. Now, Oktoberfest is considered one of the biggest festivals not only in Germany, but also around the world. So if you’re in Berlin and would like to experience Oktoberfest in the most awesome way, then this is the list for you. Just be sure to choose among the top hotels near Oktoberfest in Berlin first for your accommodation needs. There are also Airbnb vacation rentals in Berlin if you prefer a homier experience. Read on for the 7 fun things to do in the city during the historic festival, which starts in mid September and ends in early October. Let the good times begin!
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1. Kurt-Schumacher-Damm
Kurt-Schumacher-Damm is just an 8-minute drive from Tegel Airport, and it’s where you can experience the biggest Oktoberfest celebration. Have a bite of the delightful dishes offered by the food stalls and then head to the 1,600-square meter (17,222 square feet) tent to enjoy delicious local beer and live music. The tent’s traditional features are sure to leave you in awe. It’s usually less crowded during the weekdays, but if you want to feel the party atmosphere, then you should definitely visit on the weekends. As for the kids and kids-at-heart, they can try out the many exciting games and rides in the fairground.
Kurt-Schumacher-Damm
Address: Kurt-Schumacher-Damm 207, 13405 Berlin, Germany
2. Band Performances at Britzer Garten
Oktoberfest in Britzer Garten - always a fun time.
Posted by Penny Fischer on Sunday, 5 October 2014
The 222-acre (898,402 square meter) Britzer Garden, located in the south of the city, has been captivating visitors with its picturesque flowers, serene lakes, and adorable animals. It also has something special to offer during Oktoberfest. On the 23rd, 24th, and 30th of September and the 1st and 3rd of October, you will have an opportunity to watch a very talented brass band perform. Nod your head, move your body, or just absorb the good music. With the greenery in the background, you can certainly expect a blissful feeling all throughout the show. Sausages, pork knuckles, and many other delicious snacks are available, so don’t worry about getting hungry.
Band Performances at Britzer Garten
Address: Sangerhauser Weg 1, 12349 Berlin, Germany
3. Alexanderplatz
Alexander Platz - Oktoberfest
Posted by Alan Baruch on Tuesday, 7 October 2014
If you want a fun Oktoberfest experience in the city center, then Alexanderplatz is the place to be. This public square is home to many bars serving the finest beers, but you can also have a wonderful time outside. Tables fill up the outdoor area, and you can enjoy your mug while marvelling at the sight of surrounding buildings. There are also plenty of food stalls offering the most delicious local dishes. Another highlight of Alexanderplatz is the marquee area, which can accommodate up to three thousand people. Apart from tasty beverages and snacks, the tent also features live music and an exciting dirndl competition. Dirndl is a traditional German dress dating back to the 17th century.
Alexanderplatz
Address: 10178 Berlin, Germany
4. Die Wilden Wiesn
It’s another tent with a lovely vintage design that promises fun-filled Oktoberfest moments. Come to Die Wilden Wiesn and quench your thirst with the finest local beers in town. If you’re hungry, the tent also offers a wide variety of delightful snacks. After eating and drinking, enjoy a live performance by a band. You can just appreciate the music from your table or head to the dance floor and show off your moves. For reservations and the complete schedule of events, check out the official website. No need to worry if you weren’t able to make a reservation, there are standing tables here as well.
Die Wilden Wiesn
Address: Mühlenstraße 45 / Am Postbahnhof, Berlin, Germany
Website: Die Wilden Wiesn (in German)
Berlin Tour Guide
Asaf Leshem
My name is Asaf and I am a professional tour guide. I hold a Ph.D. in Dark Tourism and interpretation of history. In Berlin I guide tours on such topics as the Cold War, the Third Reich, Berlin's Jewish Heritage, Berlin and Brandenburg's Prussian History, and more. I also guide in Potsdam, and I am certified to guide in the Memorial and Museum Sachsenhausen. I am also an enthusiastic runner a... Read more
Tours by Asaf
Berlin Tour Guide
Tina
Born and raised in Australia, I studied psychology at the University of Queensland but had always loved reading modern history books. I came to Berlin for a nerdy history vacation in 2017, fell in love with the city and decided to make it home. I offer tours of Berlin and its surrounds which are rich with history and packed with energy. I don’t just show my guests Berlin's sights; I also exp... Read more
Tours by Tina
Berlin Tour Guide
Matti Geyer
I was born in Berlin the year before the wall fell and thus had the fortune and privilege to grow up in a city that was growing up itself. In 2008, I decided to turn my passion for this amazing city into a career by becoming a tour guide. Both my parents lived in East Germany: My dad became a teacher, until refusal to join the Communist party ended his career, whilst my mom worked as a tour gui... Read more
Tours by Matti
5. Hauptstadtwiesn
Hauptstadtwiesn used to take place in the Universal Hall, but now it has moved to a new and much better location. This Oktoberfest celebration will be held in a wooden hut with a traditional rustic design. Pick a table, admire the features of the cabin, and enjoy a wide selection of local beers and delicious dishes served by waiters and waitresses in vintage costumes. Another highlight is the live band performance, which is guaranteed to make you get up from your table and dance. Visit the official website to buy your tickets and see the full schedule. Hauptstadtwiesn can be reach in just 4 minutes on foot from Berlin-Nikolassee Station.
Hauptstadtwiesn
Address: Spanische Allee 180, Berlin, Germany
Website: Hauptstadtwiesn (in German)
6. Festival of Lights
From October 6 to 15, colorful lights fill up all of the city’s major attractions. It’s called the Festival of Lights and has left visitors in awe for 12 years. These illuminations came from the minds of some of the most prolific artists in the world. You won’t just see a brilliant mixture of colors, but also plenty of enthralling 3D effects. Make sure you bring your cameras to capture all of these shining wonders, each of which have their own themes. The official website is where you will find the complete list of programs and tours during the festival.
Festival of Lights
Address: Berlin, Germany
Website: Festival of Lights
7. Day of German Unity
Unity Day at the Brandenburg Gate
Posted by EMS History Department on Saturday, 3 October 2015
October 3rd is a national holiday in Germany, and it commemorates the country’s 1990 reunification. Celebrations are held in Straße des 17. Juni and the historic Brandenburg Gate, both of which offer exciting activities. There are stages where you can watch amazing bands perform and stalls selling a wide range of delicious food and drinks. For the young ones and the young-at-heart, they can play games or try out one of the fun rides. The Ferris wheel is the most famous one because it provides a panoramic view of Berlin. Indeed, it’s a day where you can spend quality time with your whole family.
Day of German Unity
Address: Central Berlin, Germany
Website: Day of German Unity
See you in Berlin
Munich may be the first to come to mind when it comes to Oktoberfest, but this list proved that it’s equally marvellous in Berlin during the festival season. Beers will usually cost around 13 USD per liter (~11 EUR) while the food prices range from 6 to 18 USD (~5-15 USD). If you’re taking public transportation, then make sure you have at least 7 USD (~5.90 EUR). You can also bring your own car, but patience is required in finding a good place to park.
From kids to adults, everyone is sure to have a memorable time in this huge event. Come to Berlin now and be part of the festivities. Apart from the 7 entries on this list, there are plenty more for you try out. One thing is for certain, you won’t experience any dull moment. We’re looking forward to partying with you very soon.
History
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