Some might think that the world-famous Oktoberfest is as German as it gets. Brass bands, large beer steins, dirndl dresses and the ever-present Lederhosen come to mind. In reality, it is mostly Bavaria — Germany's largest and southernmost federal state — that has shaped this image of Germany. It's in the Bavarian capital, Munich, where the world-famous Oktoberfest is celebrated annually. Hamburg, however, has a few Oktoberfest events to offer as well, despite being located some 800 kilometres north of Munich.
Oktoberfest in Hamburg
Geographically, the two cities couldn't be farther away from each other — all the more reason to bring the Oktoberfest to the Elbe river. Hamburg, which has its own gigantic public festival in the DOM funfair, suddenly trades in the roasted almonds and candy apples for Weisswurst (Bavarian veal sausages), pretzels and, of course, beer. The Mass (large drafted beer served in a glass or earthenware mug) plays an integral part in the festivities. In this light, minor inconsistencies, like September being the month when Oktoberfest is celebrated, shouldn’t be questioned too rigidly.
See the table below for examples of Oktoberfest-themed events that usually occur in September and October.
Note: All schedules are subject to change and any corona regulations at the time of events apply.
| 2023 TBA | Sun - Wed: | marquees, music, traditional beer tapping | |
2023 TBA | Fri, Sat: | Bavaria-based, three locations in Hamburg | |
| 2023 TBA | Fri from 5 | Hamburg’s largest Oktoberfest | |
2023 TBA | 6 p.m. - | Bavaria-themed parties at the famous Fish Market | |
| Ahrensburger Oktoberfest | 2023 TBA | Fri, Sat, Mon: 12 a.m. - midnight Sun: 12 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tue: 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. | Live music and Bavarian specialties |
| Schenefelder Oktoberfest | 2023 TBA | Sat: 10 a.m. - midnight | Beers and Pretzels in front of Schenefeld's city hall. |
