Oktoberfest Southend Returns to Priory Park This Autumn

Dust off your lederhosen and get ready to raise a stein—Oktoberfest Southend is officially returning to the lush grounds of Priory Park in Prittlewell this October. Bringing a lively slice of Munich right to the heart of Essex, the festival promises a weekend bursting with hearty Bavarian street food, authentic German biers, and foot-stomping live entertainment.

Set against the historic backdrop of Prittlewell Priory, the event transforms the park’s sweeping lawns into a bustling beer hall under a massive, heated marquee, ensuring the party goes on whatever the British autumn weather brings.

What to Expect at Oktoberfest Southend

Whether you are a seasoned festivalgoer or heading down for your very first taste of Bavarian culture, the event delivers an immersive, high-energy atmosphere across afternoon and evening sessions.

Highlights of this year's festival include:

• Authentic German Draughts: Enjoy classic Bavarian beers served directly in traditional two-pint steins, alongside cider, prosecco, wines, and soft drinks.
• Traditional Street Food: Savour sizzling bratwurst, currywurst, giant warm pretzels, and crispy schnitzels prepared by specialist street food vendors.
• Live Oompah Music: Top brass oompah bands take to the stage to perform Bavarian anthems, energetic drinking games, and singalong pop classics.
• Fancy Dress Competitions: Don your finest dirndl or lederhosen—costumes are heartily encouraged, with prizes for the best-dressed revellers in each session.

Sessions and Entertainment Schedule

The festival is divided into distinct sessions designed to cater to different crowds:

• Friday Evening: The ultimate post-work celebration to kick-start the weekend.
• Saturday Afternoon: A relaxed yet lively daytime session popular with social groups and sports clubs.
• Saturday Evening: The headline party session featuring peak marquee energy and headline band performances.

Between band sets, resident DJs keep the communal dance floor bustling with popular festival anthems and party favourites.

Planning Your Visit to Priory Park

Priory Park is conveniently situated in Prittlewell, making it easily accessible for locals and those travelling from across Southend and South Essex.

• By Train: Prittlewell Station (Greater Anglia) is just a 5-to-10-minute walk from the park gates, connecting visitors directly to Southend Victoria, Rayleigh, and London Liverpool Street. Southend Central (c2c) is also a short taxi ride away.
• By Bus: Multiple local bus routes stop along Victoria Avenue and Priory Crescent.
• Parking: On-site parking at Priory Park is strictly limited during major events; visitors are strongly advised to utilise public transport or local town centre car parks.

Tickets and Entry Information

Tickets for Oktoberfest Southend generally sell out rapidly, particularly for the Saturday evening session. Unreserved bench seating is standard across general admission tickets, while VIP tables with guaranteed seating close to the main stage and complimentary steins are available for group bookings.