Israeli Oktoberfest Celebrates Beer, Sausages, and Beards

Tel Aviv is hosting an "Israeli Oktoberfest" festival at Givatayim Square, running from September 29th to October 1st. The event, sponsored by Weihenstephan Brewery, offers a Bavarian-inspired experience with beer, sausages, music, and activities.

Attendees can enjoy Weihenstephan beers, including the seasonal Festbier, alongside "Tirat Tzvi" sausages served in buns. Other attractions include a pretzel-tossing contest and a beard styling station. The festival is designed for a casual atmosphere, encouraging guests to socialize, drink, and enjoy the ambiance.

Musical performances are a key feature, with artists like Itay Galo performing on opening night. Future acts include Muki, Keshet Shlomo, and Gilad HaMezuken (Gilad the Bearded), who will also DJ. The festival runs daily from 5 PM to 11 PM, with free admission.

A unique highlight was the fifth annual sausage-eating contest, organized by the Israeli beard community "Beards 972" and hosted by Gilad HaMezuken. Participants were judged not only on speed but also on how cleanly they ate, considering the state of their beards afterward. The winner, Yareah Shalamayev, received a year's supply of "Tirat Tzvi" sausages. This competition was exclusive to the opening night.