Copious amounts of beer and meat – what’s not to like? Part beer festival and part funfair, Oktoberfest is a key annual event in Bavarian culture and has been on their calendar for over 200 years.
The celebration has caught on fairly well in Singapore (more excuses to raise a stein, why not?) and mainly culminates in special restaurant menus and discounts on beer. For those who want front-row seats to joyous festivities, however, these three festivals recreate a slice of the original Oktoberfest in Munich. Word of advice – bring your dancing shoes.
Oktoberfest @ Swiss Club
26-30 Sept 2018
Touted as the largest event of them all, the Swiss Club Oktoberfest has already kicked off with its first night of 5; festivities go on all the way till Sunday afternoon, though the last day is more family-oriented.
Comprising a giant tent with food and beer vendors lining the sides, the central area looked to host several hundred revellers indulging in Erdinger and lager. At the heart of the party is the performing stage from which a band, flown in from Germany and kitted out in Bavarian garb, belts out both oldies and contemporary tunes (from ABBA, Queen to Camila Cabello’s Havana). Watch where you place your beer towers – more and more take to dancing on the tabletops as the night progresses (we were there.)
Tickets and info here. Ticket price varies each day, and gains you entry and access to an international buffet with favourites like pork knuckle and a whole ox rotisserie. Beer is chargeable per mug or tower. Tip: set drop-off at the Hollandse school instead, close to the tent entrance. 36 Swiss Club Road.
Oktoberfest @ Savourworld
28 & 29 Sept 2018
Knock back Lowenbrau and Franziskaner Weissbier as you groove out to beats from Fuze Collective, a soulful local band. Bites from Farm & Fables, Tokyo Joe, Wildfire Chicken and Burgers and Aglio Olio Bistro will be on hand to keep you feasted. The event is held in Savourworld’s modest indoor space (free parking after 6, by the way).
Free entry was an option, but we advise purchasing a bundle ticket which includes 2 beers and a S$10 voucher for food.
Tickets and info here. 2 Science Park Drive.
Oktoberfest Asia
18-21 Oct 2018
The sixth iteration of the wildly popular Oktoberfest Asia sees it swelling to a larger venue at Tan Quee Lan Street, under a huge, air-conditioned marquee. To eat: German delicacies prepared by catering firm Shiso. Flying in for the festivities are the Rock Oompahs, a Baravarian Oompah band.
But the best part? Freeflow pours from Paulaner and Bitburger to name a couple. Special brews are also on tap for the event, as are wines from the organiser’s other vendors. Needless to say, with bottomless kegs availing themselves, the good times will flow.
Tickets and info here. Ticket prices include entry and freeflow beers from 6pm – 11.30pm daily. Outdoor space, Tan Quee Lan Street.