Why It’s Not Too Late to Stage Your Own Oktoberfest Beer Festival

October is here, and you might think you’ve missed the boat on hosting your own Oktoberfest celebration. 

But don’t pack away the lederhosen just yet – it’s definitely not too late for pubs, bars, and hotels to run a mini beer festival that will bring in new customers, boost sales, and create a memorable seasonal experience.

Why Oktoberfest Still Works in October (and Beyond)

Traditionally, Oktoberfest in Munich kicks off in late September and runs into early October. But in the UK, the public often associates the whole month with Bavarian-style beer, bratwurst, and steins. 

That means you’ve got the entire month – and even into early November if you frame it as a “last call for Oktoberfest” – to get in on the action.

Customers are already in the mood for autumnal events, hearty food, and social gatherings before the Christmas rush. A beer festival taps into all of that perfectly.

Easy Ways to Launch a Late Oktoberfest

You don’t need months of planning to stage a great event. With a little creativity, you can still put together a themed weekend or week-long special:

1. Showcase Seasonal Beers

Partner with local breweries and beer suppliers – many still have seasonal Märzen, festbiers, and other German-inspired brews in stock. A small “Oktoberfest Tasting Menu” of 3–5 beers is enough to make it feel special.

2. Add Simple Food Pairings

You don’t have to reinvent your kitchen. Classic beer hall favourites like pretzels, bratwurst, schnitzel, and potato salad can be added as specials or sharing platters. Even a “beer and sausage” pairing board works brilliantly.

3. Create an Atmosphere

A little décor goes a long way: blue-and-white bunting, long tables, beer steins, and some German music playlists. Encourage staff to dress up for the weekend – customers will love the effort.

4. Theme Your Promotions

Run a “Stein Night” where customers get a discount if they buy a litre pour, or offer a special price on a beer-and-brat combo. Promote it as “our Oktoberfest – better late than never!”

5. Extend Into November

If your diary is already busy in October, consider an “End of Oktoberfest” party in early November. You’ll stand out as everyone else winds down, and it bridges the gap before Christmas events begin.

The Business Benefits

Extra Footfall: A themed event gives people a reason to choose you over the competition.

Increased Spend: Beer festivals encourage customers to try more drinks, order food, and stay longer.

Social Media Buzz: Photos of customers clinking steins and enjoying themselves are perfect content for your channels.

Customer Loyalty: Seasonal events show you’re proactive and fun – giving guests a reason to come back for future occasions.

Final Pour

It’s not too late to tap into the Oktoberfest spirit. Whether you go all-out with a full Bavarian beer hall experience or keep it simple with a handful of festive specials, the important thing is to do something. A late Oktoberfest event could be just the boost your pub, hotel, or bar needs before the festive season kicks in.

So, raise your steins – there’s still time to say Prost!