The 12th Annual German Village Beer Festival will be held from October 2nd to 5th in Namhae-gun’s Samdong-myeon. This year’s theme, “The 12th Joy of Namhae Shining with Beer, Prost!”, promises a vibrant mix of history, culture, and German-inspired festivities, all set against Namhae’s stunning autumn backdrop.
Namhae’s German Village was established in the 1960s and 1970s by Korean miners and nurses who worked in Germany. Their contributions have shaped the community, and the festival will honor this legacy with daily performances of the “Padok Miner Nurse Musical.” Additionally, a special “Padok Miner Nurse Talk Concert” will take place on the main stage, offering insights into the village’s history. Local students from Kkotnae Middle School will perform a reinterpretation of “Arirang” to commemorate the sacrifices of Korean workers abroad, adding a nostalgic touch to the festivities.
This year, attendees can look forward to two exciting new features: an exclusive festival beer mug and an expanded oak barrel opening ceremony. The custom beer mugs, available only during the festival, will include a mystery coupon for added fun. The oak barrel opening, which previously occurred only on the festival’s opening day, will now be a daily event, each day hosted by different local figures, including the Namhae County Governor on the first day.
Inspired by Munich’s Oktoberfest, the festival area, known as Deutscher Platz, will be decorated with the iconic Munich arch, Bavarian flags, and authentic German decor.
The festival will feature several zones, including a main stage, a food and beverage area offering local and German beers, and a “Humanities Camping Zone” themed around Brothers Grimm fairy tales. This year, the camping zone will showcase a “Princess and the Seven Dwarfs” theme, creating a whimsical space for families to enjoy.
The eco-friendly festival will focus on sustainability, using reusable containers. Visitors can engage in various German cultural activities, from bell-ringing games to craft beer-making classes. A lively parade will occur twice daily, and the festival’s “Big Tent” will provide a vibrant atmosphere for beer, music, and celebration.
Namhae-gun has implemented several measures to guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience. The festival promotes a “3-No Festival” philosophy, emphasizing eco-friendliness, safety, and transparency in pricing. Additional parking and shuttle services will help alleviate traffic congestion, and designated smoking areas will maintain a clean environment.
To enhance the visitor experience, a “Friendly Manager Group” will be available for assistance, and cultural guides will provide insights into Namhae’s rich history and traditions.
Join in the fun at this year’s Namhae German Village Beer Festival for a unique blend of culture, history, and festive celebration!
