Oktoberfest Party Ideas
How to host an authentic Bavarian bash — food, beer, music, decor and games.
Oktoberfest started in Munich in 1810 and has become the world's biggest folk festival. This guide walks through everything you need to host an authentic Oktoberfest party in Australia, whether it's a backyard gathering for 20 or a corporate event for 500.
1. The Food
Stick with the classics: bratwurst, weisswurst, currywurst, big soft pretzels with mustard, sauerkraut, schnitzels and German potato salad. Finish with Apfelstrudel. For 30 or more guests, the easiest move is to book the Volkswurst Kombi food truck.
2. The Beer
German-style beers such as Märzen, Helles, Hefeweizen and Pilsner suit an Oktoberfest celebration. Volkswurst offers an optional German Craft Beer Package for $25 per adult aged 18+ — our 4.9% ABV German-inspired Pilsner on tap for up to two hours, with a shared allowance equivalent to two 425 mL schooners per adult booked. RSA, venue and licensing requirements apply. German glass beer steins are also available for hire at $1.50 each (bond applies).
3. Decorations & Dress Code
Blue-and-white checked bunting, German and Bavarian flags, edelweiss garlands, pretzel centrepieces, string lights and fraktur signs. Call out lederhosen and dirndls on the invite.
4. The Music
Build a polka and oompah playlist, or book a live accordion player or German brass band. Schedule an "Ein Prosit" toast every 30–45 minutes.
5. Party Games
- Stein-holding contest
- Pretzel toss
- Best-dressed prize
- Hammerschlagen
- Beer pong, Bavarian edition
Your Two-Week Planning Timeline
14 days out send invites; 10 days out confirm catering and your German Craft Beer Package; 7 days out order decorations and steins; 3 days out confirm final headcount; the day before set up; on the day, Prost!
Let Volkswurst Cater Your Oktoberfest
We bring the Kombi food truck and the German menu, with an optional German Craft Beer Package for suitable events.