For those theme park fans living in the UK, Alton Towers and Thorpe Park have begun their new Oktoberfest event. Since reopening on the 4th July they have been pulling out all the stops to entice guests back to the theme parks.

Oktoberfest at Alton Towers began last weekend on 11th September and will run until 4th October with entertainment finishing at 8.30pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and at 7pm Monday-Thursday.

A particular perk of this event is that majority of rides, including Wicker Man, Nemesis, Olivion and The Smiler will be open until 8pm on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday and until 6pm Monday-Thursday. Those wanting to enjoy CBeebies Land on a Friday, Saturday and Sunday can do so until 7pm.

Guests can enjoy a variety of entertainment throughout the day. At 2pm each day the front lawns, with the stunning Towers as a backdrop, are transformed into a Bavarian-themed outdoor venue including two stages with singers, characters and an oompah band with Lederhosen-clad hosts.

A range of food dishes are available from food stands including Geladene Pommes, Spanferkel, Lebkuchen and the Schwenk Grill for guests to try if they wish including:

• Loaded Fries 
• Hog roast sandwiches
• A selection of wursts with pretzel bread

A selection of German and English Beers will be available from The Bier Keller and those looking for a warmer option can choose Hot Chocolate from the Lebkuchen stand.

Alton Towers states on its website that they advise guests to wear face masks in the event area and when purchasing food and drink. Tickets must be booked in advance as there is limited capacity. For full details and to book visit the official site.

Thorpe Park Oktoberfest

The event at Thorpe Park will share many similarities to Alton Towers as both parks are owned by Merlin Entertainments. Thorpe Park's event kicked off on 7th September and will run until 4th October. The park opening times are listed on their official site as 10am - 8pm on a Friday and Saturday and 10am - 5pm on Sunday-Thursday. 

Thorpe Park's Oktoberfest event will be located in the Island's Festival Centre and will thrill guests with bavarian-themed music and entertainment and a range of food offerings including Bratwurst, fresh pretzels, Currywurst pizza and Black Forest sundaes.

Any Oktoberfest event wouldn't be complete without a selection of German and English beers to sample including Spaten lager. Those guests choosing to visit on a Friday or Saturday can ride top attractions in the evening.

Tickets must be booked in advance due to limited capacity and full details can be found on their official site.