This year’s International Oktoberfest took place for the 19th time, and for the third time at the Wrocław Golf Club in Kryniczno, attracting nearly 800 guests. The event has become a firm fixture in Lower Silesia’s business social calendar, drawing a truly international audience. Guests enjoyed as always an evening of networking over beer, pretzels and wurst.
Accompanied by a traditional Bavarian style music from MM Systemy, song and dance this year’s International Oktoberfest was organised by the regional offices of the BPCC and the German and Dutch chambers of commerce. Two vice-presidents of the City of Wrocław, Jakub Mazur and Sebastian Lorenc, officially welcomed the guests and opened the event, along with representatives of the chambers.
With the ceremonial opening of the beer barrel, the celebrations began – a genuine festival of European togetherness. The British element was reinforced by the Częstochowa Pipes and Drums playing traditional Scottish military marches on their bagpipes. Feats of strength were on show – with the gents holding beer kegs aloft and the ladies pairs of litre steins full of beer for over two minutes. Winners of ‘Oktogame’ won attractive prizes too.
Lower Silesia’s important role in Poland’s economic development was highlighted by the presence of numerous foreign investors – including some extremely high-profile corporations! With a large number of stalls at which beer – as well as whisky and local wines and ciders – could be sampled, and with plentiful food on hand too, the International Oktoberfest was as always certain to be a jolly affair as it is each year, the music and beer and dancing continuing until midnight.
Before the official opening, there was time for guests to practice their golf swings at the driving range under the eye of instructors. This year’s event was not marred by the presence of mosquitos – the golf course’s water hazards were suitably treated and guests weren’t bothered by the insects.
Luxurious 6-seater vehicles from the Polish branch of Green Electric Taxi London Ltd were at the disposal of guests to drive them to and from Wrocław.
Next year will be the 20th International Oktoberfest; firms interested in the high visibility that sponsorship of this event will bring should contact Ilona Chodorowska, the BPCC’s director for western Poland, as early as the New Year!
