Oktoberfest celebrations reach Dartmoor with festivals, pubs and community events

Oktoberfest celebrations are spreading across Dartmoor this month, with River Dart Country Park among the biggest draws.

From large gatherings to intimate pub nights, the German-inspired festival is being embraced by communities across the moor.

The event attracts visitors from across Devon and offers a Dartmoor backdrop for the festivities.

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An event organiser told The Moorlander “Ours isn’t your typical Oktoberfest, it's first and foremost a VW camping event that has been running for more than ten years. We welcome a real mix of people, from couples and groups of friends to families with children. Alongside the Bavarian theme, the weekend is packed with activities including treasure hunts, circus workshops, a dog show and even a fancy-dress toga night. The event originally began on a campsite in Cheddar back in 2008, but River Dart Country Park has been our home for several years and offers the perfect setting.”

ABOVE: VW Oktoberfest has been held at River Dart Country Park for over 10 years (Credit: VW Oktoberfest)

In nearby Exeter, large-scale Oktoberfest sessions are taking place throughout October, with beer tents, live music and traditional dress expected to bring in crowds, including many travelling in from Dartmoor villages. 

Plymouth and the South Hams are also hosting city-centre Oktoberfest weekends, giving West Devon residents further options to join in.

Closer to home, smaller community celebrations are popping up. 

Tavistock Malthouse is advertising themed nights later this month, while pubs and breweries across the area are marking the occasion with special beers and events.

They explained on Facebook: “We’re really excited to be bringing Oktoberfest to the Malthouse this October. It’s all about good friends, full mugs and plenty of cheer, with German beer, live music, dirty burgers, pretzels and sausages on the menu. We want people to book their annual leave and come and join us for a proper midweek celebration on the 29th and 30th”

Oktoberfest events are becoming a regular feature in Dartmoor’s social calendar, with communities embracing the German-inspired festival through pub nights, live music and gatherings at local venues.