Oktoberfest in Groningen

No less than 7 million liters of beer are consumed at the world’s largest beer festival, Oktoberfest in Munich. This mega-festival isn’t just about beer but also about culture and lasts a whopping 16 to 18 days. In Groningen it is a more modest event.

The best Oktoberfest in the Netherlands

The first Oktoberfest took place in 1810 in honor of Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen and Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria. Initially, Oktoberfest was a horse race and festival, but only the festival evolved into the modern-day Oktoberfest. Besides drinking large beer mugs, you’ll naturally want to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere by dressing up in traditional clothing. If you want to experience a real Oktoberfest, you should head to Munich. The largest Oktoberfest in the Netherlands takes place annually in Sittard.

Celebrate Oktoberfest in Groningen

Now you may be wondering, where’s the party in Groningen? Unfortunately, this year you can only get a small taste of the Oktoberfest atmosphere at a few locations in the city... The two places hosting celebrations are DOT and the Borrelvloot. A question about it was already asked on Reddit a day ago, and we haven't discovered any new locations in the city of Groningen where Oktoberfest is being celebrated.

Oktoberfest at DOT in Groningen

At DOT, you can enjoy beer on Saturday, October 5th, from 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM. The price is 10 euros, and if you show up in Oktoberfest attire, you’ll receive a free Schnaps and a beer mug upon entry. Tickets for DOT’s Oktoberfest can be booked here.

Oktoberfest on the Borrelvloot in Groningen

This year, you can also experience Oktoberfest from the water. The Oktoberfest on the Borrelvloot can be reserved for groups, or you can attend the Open Boarding sessions. You can book during the week of October 20-28. The open boarding sessions are:

• Fri 20/10 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
• Sat 21/10 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
• Fri 27/10 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
• Sat 28/10 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

On the Borrelvloot, you can enjoy a wide variety of German beers, bratwurst, schnitzel, and crispy pretzels, accompanied by accordion and polka music!

Where can I rent lederhosen or a dirndl in Groningen?

An Oktoberfest isn’t complete without lederhosen or a dirndl. But purchasing Oktoberfest clothing might be a bit too much, so we recommend renting party attire! You can fully embrace the Oktoberfest spirit in Groningen at Firma Mulder on the Gedempte Zuiderdiep. This store has been around since 1914 in Groningen and is well-known in the city. They rent out party clothing and all sorts of fun accessories for Oktoberfest.

Oktoberfest Locations in Groningen

Are you organizing a fun Oktoberfest party? Register your location and event with us at stayingroningen@boostmybookings.com, and we’ll give you a mention.

Viel Spass!