Oktoberfest in Blumenau
Brazil holds the world’s second-largest beer festival. Every October, around 700,000 visitors come to Blumenau, Santa Catarina, Brazil, to enjoy beer, German cuisine, cultural parades, rock music, and everything in between for 18 long days. From “Fritz” and “Frida” to Vovó e Vovô Chopão (Grandma and Grandpa), there is much more to watch at Oktoberfest of Blumenau.
Brief History of Oktoberfest Blumenau
The city of Blumenau was founded by Hermann Bruno Otto Blumenau and seventeen other German immigrants on September 2, 1850. Today, Blumenau is a host to around 4,00,000 people, most of whom have German roots. The first Oktoberfest of Blumenau was held in 1984. Around 102,000 people attended the first festival at Parque Vila Germânica.
The city administration started the festival to boost the valley’s crumbling economy and the morale of its citizens, which was devastated by a flood in the Itajaí-Açu River. The Bulemanau people enjoyed folk music, fresh beer, and events like Tanzgruppen (folk dance) and Schützenvereine (shooting matches). The event has been held annually since 1984, except for the two-year gap caused by the Covid pandemic.
What to Wear to the Oktoberfest of Blumenau?
Traditional German attire is popular at Oktoberfest Blumenau. Men wear the Bavarian Lederhosen with white or checkered shirts and leather suspenders. Traditional patterned socks and lederhosen shoes are added to complete the classic German look. Brazilian women adorn Dirndl dresses. The costume comes with a Dirndl blouse, fitted bodice, pleated skirt, and ornate apron.
The classic German designs with Alpine motifs and lace trims increase the costume’s authenticity and traditional essence. These alpine costumes are famous for their historical German roots and the aesthetic design that keeps them comfortable throughout the festival.
