30th Oktoberfest Returns to Kempinski Beijing!
Now in its 30th year, the Beijing Oktoberfest holds a special place in the city's history. As the first place to bring this traditional Bavarian folk festival to Beijing, China, the Kempinski Hotel Beijing Yansha Center hosted the inaugural event back in 1993, serving as a gateway to an age-old tradition for the local community.
Held at the Liangma River, the location garners nothing but praise from previous attendees. Its recent surge in popularity, especially amongst the younger demographic, has solidified it as a vibrant lifestyle hub. The area pulsates with life - paddleboarders slicing through the river's waters by day, and come nightfall, a symphony of drummers and musicians fill the air with rhythm. The international dining scene is a delight, and the Liangma Bridge, with its Vegas-like skyline, is a sight to behold.
And nestled alongside this lively river is Paulaner Bräuhaus, the host of the city's grand Oktoberfest. As night descends, the atmosphere at Paulaner effortlessly draws you into the Oktoberfest spirit, enticing you to savor a few pints of beer and engage in cheerful banter with friends.
The minute we stepped into the expansive Oktoberfest tent, set up after a three-year hiatus, it felt as if we had been transported to a quaint cabin in the heart of Munich. We were ready for an unforgettable night!
Envision an authentic Bavarian escapade, complete with party-goers donned in traditional lederhosen and dirndl dresses, high-speed yodeling, and German folk tunes punctuating the air. Games featuring musicians magically producing melodies from beer-filled trumpets and periodic calls for everyone to lift their beer mugs high and toast to one another. Remember, it's not a party without a sip (or gulp) of beer!
Naturally, Oktoberfest wouldn't be complete without some good ol' beer competitions. But the moment that truly revved up the crowd was the speed-drinking contest. Four-member teams raced to empty their glasses, then balanced the empty vessels atop their heads like makeshift hats. The fastest team took home the title, with the crowd cheering them on as they chugged at an almost unbelievable pace. It was an astonishing sight, revealing an impressive number of speedy suds chuggers amidst the Beijing crowd.
But the marvels of the night are far from over. Just when you believe you've witnessed the whole spectacle, there's more on the way. One of the hosts shares a curious fact about their female vocalist, who must check off three attributes: superb singing talent, undeniable beauty, and a surprising one - an impressive capacity for beer. We're sure you've heard tales of the legendary drinking prowess at Oktoberfest, and now you're about to witness it firsthand. The host marches out, cradling a mammoth glass filled to the brim with 2 liters of frothy beer. Doubts and anticipation mingle in the air as we question if she's genuinely going to down the whole thing. We hold our breath as we watch her chug. The crowd erupts into thunderous applause as she drains the glass, without so much as a pause.
Of course, it wouldn't be Oktoberfest without a mention of the delectable culinary offerings. As the host periodically encouraged everyone to 'prost' (cheers in German), the food began to roll out. From the traditional Oktoberfest Butcher Platter filled with smoked pork loin, homemade Bavarian meatloaf, and frankfurter sausage, to Homemade Cold Cuts accompanied by Emmental cheese, these dishes were a carnivore's delight. And let's not forget the iconic German beer, carrying a unique wheat aroma.
As the night went on, the crowd transformed into a massive, energetic dance party. Everyone joined hands, forming a circle and swaying to the rhythm of German folk tunes. The party reached a fever pitch when a long conga line was formed, with guests dancing with joy. The cheerful folk music enticed everyone to join in, singing and dancing. Special guests 'Sweet Chili' were invited to contribute to this authentic Bavarian celebration.
Laughter echoed throughout the venue as guests took part in various Oktoberfest-themed games and entertaining performance challenges. This year's Oktoberfest is etched in our memory as a night of unending fun. So, if you're yearning for a carnivorous feast paired with German beers, make your way to Oktoberfest and join in the festivities!
The festivities will run from 6-10pm every evening until Oct 8. Ensure you plan accordingly to maximize your experience.
A four-course culinary journey with complimentary free-flow beer is RMB 498, for those looking for an even more indulgent experience, a five-course menu, again accompanied by limitless beer, is RMB 598.
For more detailed information, please click here or check out the poster below.
Paulaner
1/F, Kempinski Hotel Beijing Yansha Center, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District
朝阳区亮马桥路50号北京燕莎中心凯宾斯基饭店一层
Hours: 11.30am-1am
Phone: 010 6465 3388, 010 6410 4212
Images and Sponsorship: Courtesy of Kempinski Beijing