The 2nd Biggest Beer Fest in Germany

The second largest beer festival in Germany is the Erlangen Bergkirchweih held at the beginning of June each year.

It’s all about the beer in Erlangen. Perched up on the mountain, this beer fest began with tastings throughout the “caves” where the beer is stored. Unlike the sprawling Oktoberfest held in Munich, here you must climb and wind your way between trees, small alleyways, and all the caves built into the side of the mountain.

There are a number of beers represented as you walk across the face of the mountain.  As you can see the waitresses and bartenders stay nice and cool in the caves where you can sit inside, outside, or even on top to enjoy their wares.

Bavarians (and Germans) of all ages come to the fest to eat, ride the rides, play the games, and just have a great time.  Most Bavarians wear their traditional “trachtenmode” or traditional clothing.  This little boy is sporting his “lederhosen” or leather pants.

Who doesn’t enjoy a cup of cooked corn during a break from the rides?

Choosing the right ducks is important here.  You add up your points to claim your prize.

These little girls are enjoying their balloon, even though it’s tough to manage.

And what fest is complete without some good fatty fest food.  This vendor sells drippy, delicious haxen (pork knuckles), ducks, or chicken.  Yum. Yum.

The Erlangen beer festival might not be as famous as the Okotberfest, but they still have oompah bands, great food, lots of rides and games, and a whole lot of beer.  Don’t miss it!

Author Bio: Corinne Vail is a travel photographer, food lover, and a perpetual traveler who has been travel writing for over 14 years. For many years she lived overseas in Germany, Japan, Turkey, South Korea, and the Netherlands teaching the children of the US. military. She’s visited over 90 countries, and she’s not stopping anytime soon.

Have you been to the Erlangen Bergkirchweih Festival?  Tell us what you thought!