On the evening of September 19, as one of the designated events of the Shanghai Tourism Festival, the 26th Shanghai Oktoberfest opened at the Radisson Collection Hotel Yangtze Shanghai. Without traveling all the way to Munich, residents in Changning can immerse themselves in an authentic Bavarian atmosphere and experience this genuine German celebration.

Upon entering the tent, guests were greeted by continuous cheers of "Prost!" (Cheers!), lively music, and hearty laughter. Against a backdrop of blue-and-white Bavarian decorations, many Chinese and international guests wore traditional German checkered shirts and vibrant dirndls, while staff dressed in suspenders, instantly transporting everyone to Bavaria.

On the central stage, the talented and charismatic Wink Band ignited the atmosphere with cheerful folk songs, prompting the audience to raise their glasses, clap, and dance to the rhythm. The interactive sessions were particularly exciting—the host invited guests to participate in traditional games, with winners raising their beer mugs to cheers from the crowd. This year also featured a "hidden program": local Shanghai comedians took the stage, sharing humorous stories about their long-standing connections to the beer festival, eliciting constant laughter.

No beer festival is complete without authentic food and aromatic beer. German sausage platters, crispy roasted chicken, pretzels, and other classic dishes were served continuously, with the freshly carved roasted pork knuckle being the most popular. "We insist on using whole grain-fed pork knuckles, marinated in a secret sauce for three days and three nights," said Li Binbai, assistant Western chef at the Radisson Collection Hotel Yangze Shanghai. "Beer is added during the roasting process to melt the subcutaneous fat. Steaming followed by roasting ensures a golden, crispy skin and tender, juicy meat."

The golden, crispy pork knuckle, paired with Paulaner beer, the official designated beer of Munich’s Oktoberfest, created a delightful blend of malty sweetness and hoppy freshness in every bite, giving every table a reason to raise their glasses repeatedly.

"I’ve come here for several years in a row because the atmosphere is fantastic. You can drink and eat to your heart’s content. I really love this place where you can forget your worries and fully enjoy yourself," said one local resident.

The raffle draw was equally anticipated. Prizes included round-trip tickets to Europe courtesy of Finnair, popular Labubu blind boxes, and vouchers for accommodation and dining at several star-rated hotels, delighting the guests in attendance.

This year’s beer festival is not only a prime example of cultural and tourism integration in Shanghai but also a signature feature of Changning District’s night economy and international cultural exchange. Xing Jiajun, director of food and beverage at the Radisson Collection Hotel Yangtze Shanghai, said: "As the Shanghai Oktoberfest celebrates its 26th consecutive year, we aim to provide an immersive experience that allows Chinese and international visitors to 'see the world without leaving Shanghai' by showcasing authentic German cultural elements."

It is reported that the Shanghai Oktoberfest will continue from September 25 to 27. Tickets can be purchased through the official WeChat store of the Radisson Collection Hotel Yangtze Shanghai, offering everyone a chance to experience this vibrant German-style autumn night celebration.