Oktoberfest Around the World: Iconic Celebrations Beyond Munich
Every year, more than 6 million people from around the globe descend on Munich for Oktoberfest, the world's largest beer festival. For 16 days, visitors set aside their local toasts like "cheers," "sláinte," "skål," and "salud" to embrace the German tradition of clinking steins with a hearty "Prost!" While Munich hosts the original, vibrant versions of Oktoberfest thrive worldwide. Here's a look at some standout celebrations.
Blumenau, Brazil
Since 1984, this former German colony has hosted its own Oktoberfest, recreating Munich's expansive beer halls at Parque Vila Germânica. Drawing nearly 800,000 attendees annually, it extends to 18 days—two more than Munich's—and features South American twists on classic German dishes.
Kitchener-Waterloo, Canada
Rooted in German heritage, these Ontario twin cities have celebrated since 1969, attracting over 700,000 visitors yearly. Spanning nine days from the Friday before Canadian Thanksgiving to the following Saturday, it culminates in a massive Thanksgiving Day parade on King Street. Mascots Onkel Hans and Tante Frieda embody the festive spirit.
Qingdao, China
Known as the "Asian Oktoberfest," Qingdao's Beer Festival is the world's second-largest, welcoming nearly 4 million visitors in early August. It showcases global brews like Tsingtao (China), Beck's (Germany), Kirin and Asahi (Japan), Carlsberg (Denmark), Corona (Mexico), Heineken (Netherlands), Tiger (Singapore), and Budweiser (USA).
Cincinnati, USA
Coinciding with Munich's first three days, Cincinnati transforms into "Zinzinnati" for America's biggest Oktoberfest. Over 500,000 attendees enjoy beer, dancing, and unique events like the Running of the Weiners, Bratwurst Eating Contest, and Chicken Dance.
Zurich, Switzerland
Following Munich's event, Zurich offers a highly traditional Oktoberfest with authentic Bavarian cuisine and music, perfect for those seeking a second chance or an extension of the party.
Villa General Belgrano, Argentina
This nine-day National Beer Festival, held every October since the 1960s, is South America's second-largest. Street celebrations feature brass bands, beer stands, and yodeling—no tents needed.
Kingston, Jamaica
On the first Sunday in October, Jamaica's 35+ year tradition blends bratwurst and sauerkraut with beach vibes and Jamaican-German music. Expect dirndls, lederhosen, and both German and local beers.
Windhoek, Namibia
For three October days, this city becomes a Bavarian outpost with fresh beer barrels, stein-clinking, wood-cutting contests, and traditional bands—Africa's largest Oktoberfest.
Can't travel? Check local events—New Yorkers, visit Reichenbach Hall through Oct. 30!
Join us live from Munich's Oktoberfest via Facebook on September 17, 2017, at 1 p.m. ET.
