Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 in Spring: Experience Cultural Fusion with Music and Gastronomy
Welcome to a vibrant celebration where East meets West at the Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 in Spring! Nestled in the scenic Verny Park, this festival brings together an exceptional blend of authentic German beer, diverse gastronomy, and lively performances. From May 10th (Fri) to 19th (Sun), experience the rich cultural fusion that only Yokosuka can offer, with an array of traditional German brews and Japanese hospitality. Join us as we dive into ten days of fun, flavor, and festivity, where every sip and sound promises an unforgettable spring adventure.
Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024
Dates: May 10th (Fri) to May 19th (Sun), 2024
| Event Schedule | Weekdays: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Last order at 8:30 PM) Weekends and Holidays: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last order at 8:30 PM) |
| Venue | Verny Park, 1-1 Shioiri-cho, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa, Japan |
| Admission | Free (Food and drinks available for purchase.) |
| Access | 5-minute walk from Shioiri Station on the Keikyu Line. 1-minute walk from Yokosuka Station on the JR Line. |
- Overview of Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 in Spring
- What’s New at Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024
- Tips for Maximizing the Festival Experience
- Beer and Culinary Delights
- Meet Our Featured Beers
- Entertainment and Performances
- Sustainability and Community Engagement
- Exploring Verny Park: The Venue’s Unique Setting
- Visitor’s Guide
- Connecting Events: Expanding the Celebration
- Event Overview
Overview of Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 in Spring
Date and Location
The Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 in Spring will kick off on May 10th (Fri) and run through May 19th (Sun), taking place in the stunning surroundings of Verny Park. Nestled along the coastline, the park offers a breathtaking view of Yokosuka’s naval heritage, including a panorama of submarines and naval vessels. The festival welcomes guests daily, opening on weekdays from 3 PM to 9 PM and extending its hours on weekends from 11 AM to 9 PM, with the last orders at 8:30 PM.
Free Entry and Venue Highlights
Entrance to the Yokosuka Oktoberfest is free, inviting visitors to indulge in a vast selection of food and drink available for purchase. This accessibility aligns with the festival’s aim to offer an inclusive cultural experience, blending the festive spirit of Germany with the unique charm of Yokosuka. The venue itself is a significant part of the experience, as Verny Park is the only park in Japan where one can enjoy both a rich natural landscape and a view of active naval operations, providing a unique backdrop to the festivities.
What’s New at Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024
Introduction of New Beer Brands and Unique Editions
This year’s Yokosuka Oktoberfest is excited to introduce several new beer brands, enhancing the already impressive lineup of German brews. Among these, the “Raikaim Premium Pils” makes its debut in Japan, straight from the Bavarian region of Upper Franconia. This premium pilsner is known for its crisp and refreshing taste, which perfectly complements the festive atmosphere. Additionally, visitors can look forward to trying beers from six new brands that are making their first appearance at the festival, including the internationally acclaimed “Schwarzbroy Exquisite”, a craft beer celebrated for its unique flavors and award-winning quality.
Tips for Maximizing the Festival Experience
- Arrive Early or Late: To avoid the peak crowds, consider visiting early in the day or later in the evening. Not only will this strategy allow for a more relaxed experience, but it will also give you better access to popular beer and food stands.
- Explore Local Attractions: Make the most of your visit by exploring other local attractions in Yokosuka. The Mikasa Park and the Yokosuka Museum of Art are both within walking distance of the festival and offer enriching cultural experiences.
- Stay Hydrated and Sun-Protected: Given the outdoor setting and potential for warm weather, staying hydrated and using sun protection is crucial. Water stations are available throughout Verny Park, and visitors are encouraged to carry a reusable water bottle.
- Wear Comfortable Footwear: With considerable ground to cover at the festival, comfortable footwear is a must. This will make it easier to explore all the areas of the park and enjoy the full range of activities without discomfort.
- Keep Cash Handy: While some vendors may accept cards, having cash on hand is a good idea for quicker transactions at smaller food stalls or for certain artisanal goods.
Expert Tips for Enjoying the Festival to the Fullest
- Availability of Alcoholic Beverages Beyond Beer: Some vendors will also offer a selection of cocktails and wines.
- Soft Drinks and Sweets: Many vendors will have soft drinks, café menus, and sweets available, including alcohol-free options. Please check with each vendor.
- Food and Drink Policies: Bringing your own food and beverages to the seating areas is not permitted, except for infant food. Staff may ask visitors to comply with this policy.
- Event Operations in Rainy Weather: The event will proceed even in rain. Many seating areas are covered, allowing you to enjoy food and drinks without getting wet. However, in case of severe weather, there may be changes to operating hours or a cancellation. Updates will be posted on the official event social media.
- Pets at the Event: Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash. However, pets are not allowed inside the large tents, with the exception of guide dogs, hearing dogs, and service dogs.
Exciting New Features: Glamping Fire Pit Zone & Small Stage Area
In an effort to continually improve the festival experience, Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 has expanded its venue to include a new Glamping Fire Pit Zone. This addition allows guests to engage in a hands-on culinary experience, where they can grill their own foods such as pizzas and marshmallows, offering a fun and interactive element to the event. The zone is available by reservation, ensuring that every visitor has the opportunity to enjoy this unique feature.
Moreover, the festival has introduced a Small Stage Area located near the Sakura Square, which is set to host a variety of entertainment options. This stage will feature performances that enhance the festival’s ambiance, offering everything from traditional German music to contemporary pop hits. The inclusion of this stage not only diversifies the entertainment offerings but also creates a more intimate setting where festival-goers can gather and enjoy the performances up close.
Beer and Culinary Delights
Discover Our Featured Beers and Their Unique Origins
A Showcase of Select German Beers
At the heart of the Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 is its expansive selection of German beers, which are a central draw for many attendees. This year, the festival showcases approximately 100 varieties of authentic German draft beers, including many that are specially imported for the event.
Meet Our Featured Beers
Notable among these is the “Weltenburger Barock Dunkel,” an award-winning dark lager that has claimed eight gold medals at the World Beer Cup, known for its smooth, rich flavor and historical brewing tradition dating back to 1050 AD. Also featured is the “Erdinger Weissbier,” a light and fruity wheat beer that epitomizes the Bavarian beer culture with its creamy head and refreshing taste.
Leikeim
Leikeim is a family-owned brewery from the Franconian region, operating since 1887. They offer a variety of beers crafted using traditional brewing techniques, emphasizing quality and tradition while actively developing new flavors.
Official website: www.leikeim.de
BRLO
Based in Berlin, BRLO is a relatively new brewery established in 2014. They provide a diverse range of modern beers and contribute to the development of craft beer culture. Visitors can enjoy brewery tours and dining experiences at their restaurant.
Official website: www.brlo.de
Weltenburger Kloster
Weltenburger Kloster is one of the world’s oldest monastery breweries, offering robust beers born from the heart of Bavaria. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Danube River, they maintain traditional brewing practices that preserve their rich history and culture.
Official website: www.weltenburger.de
Weihenstephan
As the world’s oldest brewery, dating back to 1040, Weihenstephan combines innovative techniques with tradition. Located on the Weihenstephan hill in Freising, Bavaria, they produce premium beers with a commitment to quality and innovation.
Official website: www.weihenstephaner.de
Ayinger
Ayinger has been brewing beer in the Bavarian town of Aying for generations, preserving local traditions and family recipes. They use ingredients from local farmers and award-winning brewing techniques to offer exceptional beers.
Official website: www.ayinger-braeustueberl.de
Arcobräu
Following Bavarian traditions, Arcobräu brews beer with love, patience, and the time necessary for good beer to mature. They offer a variety of flavors, from bottom-fermented and top-fermented to strong and alcohol-free beers.
Official website: www.arcobraeu.de
PAULANER
Since 1634, PAULANER has upheld the brewing arts of Munich, known as a leading brand of Weissbier. Deeply rooted in local traditions, they are prominent at Munich’s Oktoberfest and the annual Salvator tasting events.
Official website: www.paulaner.com
SCHNEIDER WEISSE
Founded in 1872, SCHNEIDER WEISSE is a family-run brewery renowned for its wheat beers. They brew in Southern Germany’s Kelheim, adhering to traditional recipes and beloved by beer enthusiasts worldwide.
Official website: schneider-weisse.de
Schwarzbräu
Schwarzbräu is Germany’s most awarded brewery, producing high-quality beers through a family-run business with traditions dating back to 1648. Using carefully selected ingredients like hops and malt, they have won over 700 medals.
Official website: www.schwarzbraeu.de
ERDINGER
Founded in 1886, ERDINGER is the world’s largest wheat beer brewery, offering fruity and refreshing beers while preserving Bavarian traditions. Known especially for their Hefe-Weissbier, they are cherished globally.
Official website: int.erdinger.de
Savor the Flavors: Gourmet Food from Germany and Beyond
To complement the wide range of beers, the Yokosuka Oktoberfest also offers an impressive assortment of culinary options. Visitors can indulge in traditional German fare such as Bratwurst, Schnitzels, and Pretzels, alongside local Japanese delicacies. A standout is the 23-piece “Grilled Cheese Sausage Platter,” which combines flavors from both cultures with a touch of culinary flair. Additionally, the festival introduces a mixed paella and grilled chicken platter that incorporates large red shrimp, showcasing the fusion of international flavors. For seafood lovers, the “Garlic Butter Mussels” serve as a perfect snack, marrying the savory taste of mussels with the aromatic richness of garlic and butter.
The festival’s food offerings are designed not only to satisfy the taste buds but also to enhance the overall experience of beer tasting, ensuring that each visitor enjoys a comprehensive sensory experience that reflects the cultural fusion that Yokosuka Oktoberfest aims to promote.
Entertainment and Performances
Live Music Schedule: Acts and Performance Times
The Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 in Spring brings a lively mix of musical entertainment that caters to all tastes. The festival’s lineup includes traditional German folk bands as well as contemporary music acts, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. A highlight of this year’s event is the performance by The Wunderbares, a renowned German folk band that will bring the authentic Oktoberfest vibe to Yokosuka with their energetic shows. Performances are scheduled twice on weekdays and four times on weekends, allowing every visitor the chance to experience the vibrant music scene.
The Wunderbars
Performance Times
Weekdays: Performances at 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM
Weekends: Performances at 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 7:30 PM
Note: On May 14th (Tue) and 15th (Wed), performances will only be at 4:00 PM and 7:30 PM.
Founded by leader Steve, The Wunderbars is a band that performs German folk music, utilizing a diverse array of instruments. Each member brings a background from different musical genres, blending their originality with traditional German music. The name “Wunderbar,” meaning “wonderful” in German, reflects their mission to provide family-friendly entertainment that includes popular music and Oktoberfest classics.
The U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet Band
Performance Times
Performances on May 14th (Tue) and May 15th (Wed) at 6:00 PM each day.
Established in 1948, the U.S. Navy’s 7th Fleet Band is based in Yokosuka and actively engages in community outreach across the Asia-Pacific region. Comprised of 35 professional musicians, this ensemble performs a wide range of musical styles. They are known for their dynamic performances at official ceremonies, large concerts, and various events. The band includes various sub-groups like the Broadside Brass Band, which is renowned for its energetic performances that blend traditional New Orleans brass with contemporary jazz, rock, and funk. These performances captivate audiences and embody the spirit and pride of the 7th Fleet.
Sustainability and Community Engagement
Our Commitment to Sustainability: Initiatives and Practices
Please Bring Your Own Cutlery
To help reduce waste, we kindly request that you bring your own cutlery to the festival.
The Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 is committed to sustainability, embracing various initiatives that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). One of the key features this year is the reduction of plastic waste, achieved through the partnership with Koziol, a German sustainable brand known for its innovative, eco-friendly products. Festival-goers will have the opportunity to purchase durable, reusable cutlery and other dining essentials made from environmentally friendly materials, significantly reducing the event’s plastic footprint.
Furthermore, the festival promotes recycling and responsible waste management practices among vendors and participants. Special recycling stations are set up throughout Verny Park, encouraging everyone to dispose of waste properly and help maintain the park’s natural beauty.
Fostering Community and Global Partnerships for a Sustainable Future
The Yokosuka Oktoberfest also emphasizes community engagement through collaborations with local and international entities. This includes partnerships with local schools and community groups who participate in workshops and educational programs focused on sustainability. These activities not only educate the public about environmental responsibility but also foster a sense of community pride and involvement.
Additionally, the event collaborates with international partners to bring global perspectives on sustainability to the local level. These collaborations are vital in creating a festival atmosphere that not only celebrates German and Japanese cultures but also promotes a global commitment to environmental stewardship.
Exploring Verny Park: The Venue’s Unique Setting
The Historical Charm and Natural Beauty of Verny Park
Verny Park, named after the French engineer Léonce Verny who contributed significantly to the modernization of the Japanese navy, serves as the picturesque setting for the Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 in Spring. This historic park, located by the waterfront, offers stunning views of the Yokosuka Naval Base, including an array of submarines and naval ships. Its lush greenery and well-maintained pathways make it not just a venue for festivities but also a place of serene beauty and reflection.
The park’s design integrates both Japanese and Western landscape elements, reflecting Verny’s influence on Japanese engineering and architecture. As visitors wander through the park, they encounter a blend of traditional Japanese gardens and European-style layouts, making it a visual feast and a culturally enriching experience.
A Glimpse into Military and Maritime Heritage
Verny Park is uniquely positioned to provide visitors with a direct view of Japan’s only naval port where active military and maritime operations can be observed. This aspect of the park adds an educational layer to the visit, allowing festival-goers to gain insights into Japan’s naval history and its ongoing maritime roles. The presence of naval vessels and submarines in direct sight from the park not only enhances the ambiance but also serves as a reminder of Yokosuka’s strategic importance in national defense and international cooperation.
Visitor’s Guide
Essential Visitor Information: Schedule, Reservations, and More
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience at the Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 in Spring, it’s important for visitors to plan ahead. The festival is open from 3 PM to 9 PM on weekdays and from 11 AM to 9 PM on weekends, with the last order for food and drinks at 8:30 PM. While entry to the festival is free, certain activities like the Glamping Fire Pit Zone require reservations. It is advisable to book these in advance to guarantee a spot due to their popularity.
Yokosuka hotel information: YOKOSUKA ICHIBAN
Booking Your Experience at the Glamping Fire Pit Zone
Make a Reservation: Reserve your spot at the Glamping Fire Pit Zone through our Yokosuka Oktoberfest Reservation Page.
Note: The reservation page is available only in Japanese. Please consider using your web browser’s translation feature to assist with making a reservation.
Reservation Guidelines
Reservations must be made in advance via the Yokosuka Oktoberfest website. Please check in at the venue information desk 15 minutes prior to your reservation time. If there are vacancies on the day of the event, on-site reservations may also be possible.
Operating Hours:
Weekdays: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Weekends: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Note: Sessions are 2 hours long. The last session starts at 6:00 PM.
Capacity: Each area can accommodate up to 8 people.
Usage Fee:
¥2,000 (tax included) for a 2-hour session. Payment is due at the venue information desk on the day of use.
Cashless payments are accepted.
Key Information for Visitors
No outside food or drinks are allowed (exceptions made for children’s beverages due to dietary restrictions).
The event may be canceled in the case of heavy rain, although it will proceed in light rain.
Please check in at the venue information desk 15 minutes before your reservation time. Failure to check in 15 minutes before may result in cancellation of your reservation.
When making a reservation, please specify your desired date, time, number of people, and contact phone number.
Connecting Events: Expanding the Celebration
Experience More: Yokosuka SAKE FESTiBAR & Curry Festival
The Yokosuka Curry Festival will also be held on Saturday, May 18th, and Sunday, May 19th.
The celebration at the Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 in Spring extends beyond beer and music; it connects with other significant local events to enhance the festive atmosphere. On the final weekend of the Oktoberfest, the Yokosuka SAKE FESTiBAR will take place, offering visitors an exclusive chance to explore a wide variety of Japanese sake. This event is specially designed to provide a seamless cultural experience that complements the Oktoberfest, allowing guests to appreciate another facet of Japanese culinary culture.
Additionally, the Yokosuka Curry Festival, celebrating its 25th anniversary, coincides with the last two days of the Oktoberfest. A free shuttle bus will connect the two events, making it easy for attendees to enjoy both festivities. The Curry Festival will feature the “National Local Curry Grand Prix,” marking its return after a five-year hiatus. This event showcases the best curry dishes from across Japan, adding a spicy twist to the weekend’s celebrations.
Event Overview
Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024
Dates: May 10th (Fri) to May 19th (Sun), 2024
Times:
Weekdays: 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Last order at 8:30 PM)
Weekends and Holidays: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Last order at 8:30 PM)
Note: Event will be canceled in case of severe weather.
Venue: Verny Park, 1-1 Shioiri-cho, Yokosuka City, Kanagawa, Japan
Admission: Free (Food and drinks available for purchase.)
Access:
5-minute walk from Shioiri Station on the Keikyu Line.
A 1-minute walk from Yokosuka Station on the JR Line.
Official Website (JP): Visit the Yokosuka Oktoberfest 2024 Official Website
