Celebrating the launch of Oktoberfeis. Photo: ROLLINGNEWS.IE

Irish spin on German festival, Oktoberfeis is coming to Mayo

THIS September, Ireland will witness the birth of a brand-new festival that combines the best of Bavarian revelry with the rich heritage of Irish traditions. All with a modern Irish festival flare.

Oktoberfeis, a Gaelic twist on the world-renowned Oktoberfest, promises an unforgettable celebration infused with Irish music, food, and culture, with many of the standout elements that are immediately recognisable from the German Oktoberfest.

The festival will take place with 10 events happening across Ireland, including Castlebar, ensuring Oktoberfeis promises to be a unique celebration that will captivate locals and visitors alike, embracing the best of both worlds.

Expect some of Ireland's most popular musicians including Whistlin' Donkeys, George Murphy & The Rising Sons, Rake the Ashes and many more across each of the dates.

Attendees can also expect Irish trad bands, DJs and dancers, authentic Irish food stalls, roving performers, and an eclectic mix of entertainment and competitions across the evening. From the very first note of a fiddle to the last professional Irish jig on stage, Octoberfeis will transport visitors to a world where the energy of traditional Irish music seamlessly merges with the festive atmosphere of the original German beer festival.

Speaking about the announcement, founder Craig Reynolds said: “This new festival idea was inspired by the legendary Munich Oktoberfest. We will capture what is most loved about the iconic German festival while adding an authentic Irish twist throughout.

“Oktoberfeis will cater to everyone, from old school Irish trad fanatics, to mainstream festival goers who are just looking for a good night out. Everyone will have a great time, rest assured. All of the best of Ireland combined with what we love most about the German Oktoberfest, such as the long biergarten tables, steins of beer, and the best of Irish music and entertainment. “

The festival will travel nationwide, kicking off in Carrick-on-Shannon on September 9. It comes to Castlebar, to the Royal Theatre on Saturday, September 16.

Tickets for Oktoberfeis are now available for purchase at the festival's official website. Prices start from only €25.

More information and tickets here: https://www.oktoberfeis.ie/.