When somebody says German beer festivals, your first thought is probably Oktoberfest. However, there are numerous other celebrations in the country, which won’t be as crowded and might be even more fun. What are they—which German beer festivals should you attend in 2024? Find it out in this article!

The 5 Best Beer Festivals in Germany

Beer is undoubtedly one of the most important drinks in human history (though it was significantly weaker in the past). It has made its mark on culture, especially in countries like Germany. Thus, it’s not surprising that it is celebrated there.

What are the best events dedicated to this beverage? Which German beer festivals should you visit? Here’s our list!

Oktoberfest

  • Location: Munich, Bavaria
  • Dates: September 21 – October 6, 2024

Oktoberfest is the world’s largest and most famous beer festival, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe each year. Held in Munich, Bavaria, this iconic event offers not just beer but a full-blown cultural experience with traditional Bavarian music, food, and characteristic outfits.

Remember to book places in beer tents in advance—Oktoberfest is massive, so the sooner you make reservations, the better; otherwise, there might not be any slots left!

german beer festival 2024

Starkbierfest (Strong Beer Festival)

  • Location: Munich, Bavaria
  • Dates: March 15 – April 7, 2024

When it comes to German beer festivals in Munich, Oktoberfest has a little brother—the Starkbierfest. It’s a bit lesser-known, but it is still an enjoyable festival focused mainly on strong beers. Like Oktoberfest, it’s celebrated with traditional Bavarian music and dances.

Starkbierfest is as enjoyable as Oktoberfest but significantly less crowded and not as strict regarding your beer festival outfit/costume (while there is no official dress code on Oktoberfest, people might look down on you if you dress inappropriately).

Cannstatter Volksfest (Stuttgart Beer Festival)

  • Location: Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg
  • Dates: September 27 – October 13, 2024

Cannstatter Volksfest, also known as the Stuttgart Beer Festival, is one of Germany’s largest and oldest beer festivals. Founded in 1818, it’s held annually in Stuttgart and offers a fantastic blend of beer, culture, and entertainment. The festival features large beer tents where you can enjoy locally brewed beers along with a variety of regional and international foods.

International Berlin Beer Festival

  • Location: Berlin
  • Dates: August 2 – August 4, 2024

While it might be too late to attend the International Berlin Beer Festival this year, you absolutely should do it in 2025. Why? This event is well-known for beating the Guinness World Record for the longest beer garden and tons of different beer varieties. Plus, as it stretches out across a major part of the city, it doesn’t get as crowded as the other events from our list.

Freimarkt

  • Location: Bremen
  • Dates: October 18 – November 3, 2024

Freimarkt in Bremen is one of Germany’s oldest fairs, dating back to 1035. While not exclusively a beer festival (one could call it a food festival or even a carnival), it has become one of the country’s major beer events over the years. The festival is a lively mix of a traditional funfair and a beer festival, featuring numerous beer tents and stalls where you can enjoy various German beers. It also includes carnival rides, games, parades, and live music, making it a great option for those who want to combine beer tasting with some extra fun!

The Takeaway

The above are, in our opinion, the five best beer festivals in Germany. If you want to find more exciting events, download our social mapping app, YouMap. There, you’ll find user-created maps for different themes and occasions, including captivating maps of the best beer events in Germany and other countries!

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