By: Miriam Bribiesca
Not to blow your mind right away, but Oktoberfest is not just a Germany thing anymore. We were surprised too! And before we show you where else the Stein party’s popping off, here’s a quick history lesson.
Unlike popular belief, Oktoberfest didn’t actually start as a massive beer party, it was a royal wedding celebration. Back in 1810, Crown Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese of Saxony Hildburghausen, and the people of Munich were invited to party like it was… 1810. Cue the horse races, music, and yes, some very full to the brim steins. It was such a hit at the time, they decided to do it again the next year, and the next and suddenly we’re over two centuries deep. How cool is that?!
But going back to our first point, Oktoberfest isn’t just about lederhosen and beer gardens anymore. It has gone global! And lucky for you there are a mix of unexpected destinations that will give off a similar vibe but without the hefty price tag.
Yokohama Oktoberfest
Wait, Japan? Yep. Yokohama hosts one of the most vibrant Oktoberfest celebrations outside of Germany. Held in the historic Red Brick Warehouse, this fest blends Bavarian beats with Japanese hospitality. You’ll find bratwurst, accordion players, and surprisingly affordable pints of authentic German beer, so don’t think you are getting chipped off by experiencing it elsewhere.
Here’s a checklist of why you should go (not like you needed one):
☐ K pop dance covers WILL happen at beer gardens. We love the mix of cultures!
☐ Everything is meticulously clean, well organized, and Instagrammable. A.K.A your feed is about to be on fire.
☐ Japan Rail Pass discounts = major travel savings AND super easy for you to explore other cities.
☐ You can grab konbini snacks before heading in to save on food costs. We all know that their gas stations/grocery stores are elite.
☐ Catch beautiful sunsets at Osanbashi Pier. Duh!
Blumenau Oktoberfest
Next up is Blumenau. It is in the southern state of Santa Catarina in Brazil, and was founded by German immigrants. So yes, their Oktoberfest slaps! In fact, it’s the second largest Oktoberfest in the world (after Munich), but with tropical vibes, lively parades, and a side of samba. If that’s all you needed to hear to book the flights, SAME. And because we want you to make this happen, you should take advantage of our exclusive flight deals for students.
Here’s a checklist of why you should go:
☐ Dance battles between German polka and Brazilian funk. We all know who usually wins!
☐ Beer mug relay races that somehow feel like a TikTok challenge.
☐ Flights to Brazil are cheaper in October. Score!
☐ Street food is chef’s kiss and affordable AF. You are seriously about to eat GOOD!
☐ You can easily take a detour to Florianópolis for beaches! So make sure to pack those swimsuits.
Cape Town Craft Beer Festival
Although this option isn’t an Oktoberfest clone, trust us when we say you will not be disappointed. Cape town is a young and vibrant city, and there’s always something fun and unique to do. It’s giving “cool cousin with better taste.”
The Cape Town Beer Festival is held at Hamilton Rugby Club near Table Mountain, and is more about small batch brews, chill beats, and artisan snacks that will have you getting an extra checked bag back to the states for all your family members to try.
Here’s a checklist of why you should go:
☐ You will find microbrews with personality (think mango infused IPAs and SO much more).
☐ Breathtaking views and low cost Uber rides. Win win!
☐ Budget hostels with serious style and fantastic people.
☐ South Africa’s exchange rate for US students is seriously unmatched. Basically your new best friend.
☐ You can take the cable car up Table Mountain (we’ve talked about this one before and it’s a top tier experience!)
☐ You can Kayak with penguins at Boulders Beach. Okay, National Geographic explorer!
The OG Oktoberfest
Now if you are thinking about going to the original Oktoberfest in Munich. Respect. It’s the blueprint, the Beyoncé of beer festivals, and although we’ve talked about alternatives, attending the one in Munich is worth the hype (even if beer’s not your thing). But before you throw on your lederhosen and hop on a budget airline, here’s the lowdown.
How Long is Oktoberfest?
For 2025, the festival is scheduled to run from Saturday, September 20 to Sunday, October 5.Why September? Because they quickly realized that sunshine + beer equals way better vibes than cold, rainy October. Thank you beer gods! Basically right now is THE perfect time to book your scholar trip flights.
Do You Need Tickets?
You do not! Entry is 100% free to all the beer tents and festival grounds. You’ll only pay for what you eat and drink or for any rides, games, or souvenirs you want to try. BUT here’s the catch: seating is limited, and if you want a table inside a popular tent, you’ll want to reserve in advance, especially for groups of 4+.
How to reserve a table:
Each beer tent has its own website where you can request a reservation (usually opening in spring). Some popular ones:
- Hofbräu Festzelt (more tourist friendly if that’s your vibe)
- Schottenhamel (where Oktoberfest is officially opened)
- Augustiner Festhalle (we heart is the locals’ favorite)
If you can’t snag a reservation, we recommend you go early, that means before noon or on weekdays, because otherwise it will be hard to find a spot in the unreserved sections.
How to reserve a table:
We thought you would never ask! Of course, there are massive pretzels and roast chickens, but Oktoberfest food has some serious range. Here’s a couple to keep in your radar:
- Käsespätzle – German mac ‘n cheese with caramelized onions. Life changing.
- Steckerlfisch – Grilled fish on a stick (sounds weird, but it tastes smoky and amazing).
Budget Tips
As we’ve said, Oktoberfest in Munich can get expensive real quick. So we suggest the following:
1. Split meals. Portion sizes are MASSIVE, so go in with a buddy and share that roast chicken + pretzel combo. yum!
2. Don’t pay extra for traditional clothes. Look for secondhand dirndls or lederhosen on Vinted or local thrift stores. You’ll save $$$ and still look the part.
3. Take public transit. Munich’s metro is fast, clean, and way cheaper than Ubers. Oh and don’t forget that the stop you want is Theresienwiese on the U4/U5 line.
4. Stay outside the city. Look into hostels or Airbnb stays in nearby towns like Augsburg, Dachau, or even Salzburg (yes, Austria). You’ll save on lodging and still be within train range. And unlike the states, trains in Europe often come in clutch.
5. Hydrate. And Pace Yourself, seriously. Bring a refillable water bottle with you, you’ll thank yourself later.
We know that was a lot of information, but as we’ve learned, Oktoberfest is more than just a party, it’s a passport into culture and connection (at least that is what we tell our parents).
It doesn’t matter where you are, as long as you get to experience the spirit of the fest focused on celebrating life and a little beer. So regardless of where your trip is to next, go with curiosity, stay safe, and don’t forget to call your mom. She will ask if you’re drinking enough water. Which you should always say YES!
