Hundreds of Germans expected to work up a thirst for Oktoberfest Beag

Still buoyed by World Cup success, hundreds of Germans are expected to descend on Cork to join an estimated 10,000 visitors for the Oktoberfest Beag.

The event, though, is held in September rather than October. In its fifth year, the festival celebrates everything Bavarian, and returns to the Beamish & Crawford brewery site on South Main Street on September 11-20.

Festivities will swing into action between 4pm and 10.30pm daily and will include table service by frauleins who will serve a selection of traditional Bavarian dishes and refreshments. There will be entertainment throughout the festival with performances by the Edelweiss Oompah Brass Band each evening.

Festival organiser Daryl Cronin expects this year’s event to exceed all expectations. “Oktoberfest Beag is going to bigger, better and ‘Über’ than ever before. It is well established at this stage and clearly appeals to a wide audience. It’s a tremendous coup for the city. We are seeing great interest again this year from the corporate sector as well as sports and social groups, who are looking for a cost-effective and fun way to entertain their staff and that is exactly what Oktoberfest Beag offers.”

The festival is sponsored by Kearys BMW, due to its connection with the German brand of automobiles.

“We are very proud to become associate sponsor of Oktoberfest Beag for 2014. It is encouraging to see it continue to prosper. Cork has always been a thriving tourism hub so it is no surprise that Oktoberfest Beag has become such a successful element in its annual calendar of events,” director Brian Keary said.

www.oktoberfestbeag.ie