Search icon

Dublin

15th Sep 2017

All You Need To Know If You’re Heading To Oktoberfest This Weekend

Sharron

Where’s it on?

Dublin’s Docklands is the place to be. George’s Dock is going to be transformed into a mini Germany complete with traditional costumes, beer barrels and more!

How long is it on for?

You’ve plenty of time yet. The festival only launched yesterday and the German beer will keep flowing until October 1st. 

From Monday to Thursday, it’ll open between midday and 11:30pm. On Fridays and Saturdays, the doors will open from midday to 4:30pm and again from 5:30pm until 11:30pm while on Sundays, you can get in there between midday and 10:30pm. 

The event is very popular so get down there early and be prepared to queue. However, if you want to avoid the queuing then you can make a reservation over on their website.

How much does it cost?

Not a lot. Admission is free on most days but after 5.30pm on Fridays and Saturdays, you’ll have to pay a €10 entry fee. The good news is that price also includes a €5 meal voucher. Happy out.

What exactly is happening at it?

Beer, beer and even more beer.

Think traditional German costumes, massive barrels of beer and endless frankfurters. 

You’ll get to sample the best of German food including Bratwurst, Roasted Potatoes, Leberkäs, Haxn, Sauerkraut, Burgundian Ham, Crepes, Candy, Pretzels and more.

Will there be entertainment?

Of course! Expect authentic Oktoberfest music and current chart hits live from a Bavarian Band. They usually start their first set between 4 and 7pm. 

While they’re taking a break, DJ Udo will be on the decks playing all the top hits. This guy does his set with a plunger stuck to his head and really is a sight to behold.

Screen Shot 2017 09 15 At 11 14 18

What’s the best night to go?

Any night, really. The place is always jam-packed and once you have a ton of your mates, you’re bound to have a right laugh. If you are looking for something different though, they hold a Pink Tuesday theme night dedicated to celebrating gay pride and LGBTQ rights. The main marquee also holds a spectacular drag show that night.

Mid-week, they hold a wacky Wednesday, where people are encouraged to dress up in their craziest of costumes and Mondays are dedicated to the hard working bar and restaurant staff of Dublin. They have special drink offers on for those who’ve spent most of their weekend working. Sound! 

Is there anything else to do apart from drink beer?

Of course there is! As well as all the delicious food and beer, they have music, entertainment and a mini funfair! This year, they’re bringing a brand new “Hau den Lukas” and a boxing machine, where you can test your punch against your mates!

How much are the beers?

A large beer (they are massive) will cost €12 and a small beer costs €6.50. With your first beer, you also have to pay a €5 deposit for the glass which you can get reimbursed before you leave.

I’m not a massive beer fan – what else is there to drink?

Don’t worry! Although the beer is the main attraction, they also sell wines, soft drinks and Prosecco to cater for absolutely everybody.

Is there an age limit? 

Yes, you have to be over 21 to attend Oktoberfest. Kids are allowed attend though any day before 7pm, so long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Where can I find out more?

For even more info, you can check out the official Oktoberfest Dublin website, or follow live updates of the festival on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

READ NEXT: This Irish Band Showing You Around Dublin Will Give You Goosebumps

Topics: