Originating in Bavaria, Germany, Oktoberfest is known as the world's largest folk festival. In Goa, every celebration is a moment to enjoy life with great music and food and the brew of the season. Giving it's own Goan twist to the festival, Oktoberfest 2024 will be held this weekend on October 25, 26 and 27 at D B Grounds, Campal, Panjim from 5 pm onwards. In its 13th edition, the festival has not only gained popularity but has brought many local brands and bands into the limelight.
Speaking about the origins of the festival in Goa, Creative director of Oktoberfest, Clarence Fernandes says, "13 years back, the festival was originally held in Morjim. Bullseye Entertainment's director, Munna Ruknuddhin had the vision to recreate the experience of the world’s best beer festival in our very own state of Goa. Today, we can proudly say that we do our best to represent his vision on a yearly basis. We truly appreciate all the love and support we receive from all across Goa and for the overwhelming response we receive across three days."
This Oktoberfest, there is something special for everyone. From the freshest brews to great music, delicious variety of food, a beautiful flea market, game stalls, activities and lots more. On day one of the festival, the performances include bands Twin Strings, Crimson Tide, Breakthrough and 24K. On day 2, bands Shine One, Altitude, KK Sonic and Gravity will take the stage while Akhil and Bhargav will be the opening act before the headlining act, Kabir Singh aka Acoustic Singh. The concluding day of the festival will see performances by Raagas2Riches, K7, Neon, Archies with the opening act by Larina and Georgie and the closing act of the festival will be international sensation Jay Sean who is known for his hits like 'Ride it', 'Down' and 'Do you Remember?'.
The festival has grown along with the rising beer culture in Goa and across India as a whole. "People are more interested in fresh brews and experimenting with their taste buds. The market for new beers is always growing and it will only get more people hooked on as time goes by," says Clarence. Over the years, the festival has evolved from music based to a complete food, lifestyle and art centric festival which is truly multicultural in the present day. From having world renowned DJs like Roger Sanchez, Marco V, Firebeatz and other international superstar DJs to a more love music based and family friendly event, the festival has a wide variety of brews, cuisines, artists, performers and much more from across the globe.
The big headliners that have performed at Oktoberfest in the past includes Sean Kingston, Kevin little, Roger Sanchez, Anuv Jain, Bombay Vikings, Ananya Birla, Zaeden, Lorna and almost every top band from Goa.
To tempt the taste buds, a wide varieties of cuieines including Goan, Indian, Chinese, Jamaican, Mexican, Grills, North Eastern and of course German will be available.
Being an international tourist destination, peope do visit the festival from different parts of the world and give their feedback. "We do get a lot of feedback asking why our Oktoberfest isn't exactly like the one in Germany. Our aim is to some day be as close as the German festival but we must stay true to our roots. We are proud of everything our state and county has to offer and try to incorporate and localise the festival to make it more as per people's liking. Hopefully, we will have enough breweries in Goa to host this festival in massive tents like in Germany," concludes Clarence with optimism.