Oktoberfest is a world-famous German festival that originated in Munich in 1810. It began as a royal wedding celebration for Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen, where citizens were invited to join in the festivities.
Video Credit: Tipsy Bartender
Over the years, it evolved into a beer-centric festival featuring Bavarian culture, food, music, and carnival-like attractions. Traditionally held in late September to early October, the festival is celebrated with massive beer tents and traditional German cuisine like sausages and pretzels.
In recent years, Oktoberfest has become increasingly popular in India, driven by the growing urban culture, international exposure, and a rising interest in craft beer. Cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, and Pune host Oktoberfest-themed events where people gather to enjoy German beers, local brews, and traditional Bavarian food.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Breweries and pubs across India organize these events with live music, folk dances, and contests, replicating the lively spirit of the original festival. The trend signifies India’s evolving drinking culture and appreciation for global festivals, blending local flavours with the iconic traditions of Oktoberfest. This cross-cultural adaptation continues to gain momentum in metropolitan areas across the country. If you are in Pune, Goa, Mumbai or Bangalore here are some places you must check out for Oktoberfest specials.
Photo Credit: Unsplash
Oktoberfest In Pune
Effingut Brews
This is a fun place to celebrate Oktoberfest. There will be German brews so good they'll have you consider dancing on tables. It is advisable to wear stretchy pants if you are going to binge on the traditional German feast. There will be a community table, where you can bond with strangers over a pint, enjoy a sundowner and jam sessions where you can sing your heart out.
On: 21st Sept to 6th Oct
Cost: Rs 2500 for two (appox)
Plot No. 389, Serene Bay, No. 21/A, Lane No. 6, Ashok Chakra Society, Meera Nagar, Koregaon Park, Pune
Independence Brewing Company
Live food stations, pop-up stalls, a live Dj and lots of beer on tap, it’s a full-blown party at the IBC Hoptoberfest Showdown. The two-day event promises an authentic Bavarian experience filled with craft beer, delicious food, live music, and festive entertainment. There will be the newly launched Munich Mischief (Märzen Lager) a deep amber lager with smooth, toasty malt flavors, floral and spicy notes, and a creamy mouthfeel with a crisp finish, making it perfect for the festive season along with a bunch of other beer, Pepperoni & Oven-Dried Cherry Tomato Pizza, Prawn Cocktail and Avocado Pizza and lots more.
On: 5th & 6th October
Cost: Rs 3000 for two (approx)
16/1, Mulik Palace, Wadgaon Sheri Rd, opposite Trump Towers, Kalyani Nagar, Pune.
Oktoberfest In Mumbai
Woodside Inn
At Woodside you can collect Beer Ticking Cards and sample our delicious German brews. Once you've conquered all four featured beers, the fifth one is on the house. Expect to try the Hell Meister Helles Lager, a traditional Lager that offers a malt sweetness along with subtle floral and herbal notes, true to its Bavarian roots. & Wünder Bier Weizenbock, a strong German wheat beer with a rich maltiness and a thick, white head. To complement the beer selection there’s a curated a mouthwatering menu inspired by traditional German cuisine. Think Salted Crispy Pretzel Knots, Sauerkraut, Potato, and Gouda Croquettes with Honey Fermented Garlic, and classic Bockwurst Hot Dog with Chicken Bockwurst Sausage.
On: 21st Sept, 2024 to 6 Oct
Cost: Rs 2000 for two (approx)
Woodside Inn Bandra, Colaba and Andheri.
Reflections And Lotus Cafe
Opulent decor, delectable menu, great beer and foot tapping music will all be on offer as part of Oktoberfest celebrations at Reflections, the elegant sea-facing lobby lounge and bar and at the Lotus Café. You can look forward to a culinary feast with an array of delectable dishes such as German Chicken Schweineschnitzel, Gebrannte Mandeln, Kartoffelsuppe, Braised Sticky Baby Pork Ribs, Pork Nuremberger Sausages, Chicken Krakauer Sausage and a lot more, along with bottled beers such as Super Fresh White, Blonde Summer Lager, Draught Beers and a lot more.
On: : 21st Sept to 6 Oct
Cost: Rs 4600 plus taxes
JW Marriott Mumbai Juhu, Juhu Tara Rd, Juhu Tara, Juhu, Mumbai.
Oktoberfest In Goa
Água Pool Bar & Café
At the JW Marriott Goa, enjoy a delicious German feast. Try the Flammkuchen—with crème fraiche, caramelised onions, earthy mushrooms, and the tender Chicken Schnitzel, served with jus natural and German mustard. Don't miss the OG Black Forest dessert, featuring dark Genoese sponge layered with Chantilly cream and sour cherries, topped with chocolate shavings.
On: 1st Oct to 10th Oct
Cost: Rs 3000 for two (plus taxes )
Bardez, Vagator Beach Rd, Vagator, Goa 403509
Oktoberfest In Bengaluru
Quattro
Quattro, a premium all-day dining restaurant at The Leela Bhartiya City, will bring their version of the iconic Bavarian celebration to Bengaluru. The Oktoberfest menu at Quattro features the finest delicacies from the Rhineland region paired perfectly with the finest German brews.
The meticulously curated menu includes traditional dishes like Pork Schnitzel, breaded and fried pork cutlets served with lemon wedges, and Bratwurst, steamed and grilled German sausages paired with English mustard among a bunch of other traditional German treats.
On: 21st Sept to 6th Oct
Cost: Rs 2000 for two (plus taxes )
Quattro, 6/2, Thanisandra Main Road, Tirumanahalli, Bengaluru 560064.
Sheraton Grand Bengaluru
Indulge in a feast of traditional German delicacies and raise your steins to an exciting selection of craft beers as you immerse yourself in the spirit of Oktoberfest, prepare to savour Bavarian treats at Chime, the hotel’s lounge bar, and Plunge, its serene poolside bar.
On: 26th Sept to 5th Oct
Cost: Rs 3000 for two (plus taxes )
Prestige Shantiniketan, Hoodi, Thigalarapalya, Whitefield, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560048.