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Top Oktoberfest Alternatives: The World's Best Beer Festivals

While Munich's iconic Oktoberfest barrels have been tapped, beer lovers can still celebrate at exceptional festivals worldwide. Raise a glass to these vibrant alternatives.

Blumenau Beer Festival, Brazil

Imagine oompah bands and steins of beer in South America. Blumenau, Santa Catarina's former German colony, hosts one of the world's largest beer festivals since 1983, started to aid flood recovery. Enjoy samba, sausages, and lederhosen with a cheer of saúde!

Great American Beer Festival, Denver

In mid-October, Denver showcases ales from over 580 U.S. breweries to 50,000 attendees. Taste exceptional brews, watch award ceremonies, and designated drivers relax in a lounge with root beers, sodas, and massages.

PINT Bokbier Festival, Amsterdam

Late October brings Amsterdam's lively PINT Bokbier Festival, celebrating dark, robust bokbier (6-9% ABV). Compare Dutch, German, and Belgian varieties in this annual event dedicated to this beloved brew.

Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, Canada

Ontario's nine-day beer fest precedes Canadian Thanksgiving in late October. Sample beers, savor pancakes, join the nationwide parade, or enter DOGtoberfest's pooch pageant for family fun.

Freimarkt, Bremen

Dating to 1035, Bremen's Freimarkt edges out Oktoberfest as Germany's oldest festival. This 1,000-year tradition transforms the seaside city into a lively street party with rides and frothy brews.

Bitter and Twisted Boutique Beer Festival, Australia

Australia's oldest prison, Maitland Gaol, now hosts craft beer fans at this annual event. Tour the cells, attend masterclasses, enjoy music, and sample unique brews—just don't get locked in.

Essen Kerstbierfestival, Belgium

Near Antwerp, this pre-Christmas festival by the Objective Beer Drinkers of Belgium offers festive beers in civilized 15cl pours (€1.25 each). Try strong aromatics or warming gluhkriek, Belgium's spicy cherry beer.

Durbanville Beer Fest, South Africa

Early December spotlights craft beer by a serene lake at this family-friendly fest. Less rowdy than veterans, it provides a relaxed vibe amid Hillcrest's wine country.


Top Oktoberfest Alternatives: The World s Best Beer Festivals

Ready for year-round revelry? Dive into Lonely Planet's A Year of Festivals.


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