Experience authentic German fare at Goa's inaugural Brezelfest

Whether it's to commemorate significant achievements or to seek solace during challenging moments, gathering over a chilled beer fosters an inviting atmosphere where inhibitions fade away.

So, when one day, a baker, a gardener and an artist met over beer, they hit upon an idea of bringing the community together through art and music.

And thus was born the first authentic German Brezelfest Goa, a brainchild of three women entrepreneurs from South Goa—Andrea Thumshirn (the baker from Bakery Pausenbrot in Benualim), Ragini Dhingra (the artist who runs Studio Paddy Fields) and Yogita Mehra (the gardener who runs Green Essentials).

The German Brezelfest aims to bring Goan and German cultures on one platform, and on November 7, 2024, people can expect a big festival at The Base in Seraulim, South Goa, where beer, food and music will flow in abundance.

So, block the date and get to Seraulim to gulp down authentic German beer, food, and dance to the of the original Oktoberfest band from Munich, Die Kirchdorfer.

Die Kirchdorfer has been performing for the last 20 years at the Oktoberfest in Pune, Maharashtra. Being the first time in Goa, the Goan audience will get a taste of the band at the German Brezelfest in Seraulim.  

Andrea Thumshirn, Bakery Pausenbrot, BenualimWe love attending the Oktoberfest in Pune, organized by the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce, where they bring in a traditional Oktoberfest band. It’s a wonderful way for me to connect with my roots while being so far from home.

Goans can expect to with Germany through the European country's delicacies like freshly baked Brezel, Bratwurst, Schnitzel, Sourdough sandwiches, Apple Crumble and Cinnamon Rolls.

Whether in Germany or Goa, no celebration is complete without beer. Keeping this in mind, the Seven Rivers Brewing Co is crafting a truly authentic experience by brewing 600 litres of Munich Helles and 300 litres of German Pilsner.

GOAN-GERMAN CONNECTION: Dressed in traditional 'dirndls', these women are spearheading the Brezelfest.

Seven Rivers Brewing Co, Aguada, is brewing Munich Helles beer, especially for the event, while German Bakery Pausenenbrot will cater delicious German food and baked goodies, including traditional Brezel (also called pretzel).

“We wanted to establish a benchmark event that would draw everyone to the South, rather than always having to travel elsewhere. The first idea that came to mind was an Oktoberfest,” Andrea Thumshirn shared with Gomantak Times Digital.    

"I run a German bakery that’s been around for four years, and before that, I lived in various places in India with my Indian husband," shares Andrea.

"We love attending the Oktoberfest in Pune, organised by the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce, where they bring in a traditional Oktoberfest band. It’s a wonderful way for me to connect with my roots while being so far from home,” she says.

The festival promises a variety of engaging workshops, including arts and crafts, organic kitchen gardening, life coaching, crocheting and zero-waste living, among many others.

A highlight of the event will be the launch of handmade postcards called SnailMail. Additionally, there will be a special community arena dedicated to supporting local entrepreneurs.

Auda Viegas, founder of the renowned Bilancho Ekvott, will also be releasing her book at the event. To celebrate Goan arts, guests can enjoy performances by Alton & Elvis throughout the festival.

The German Brezelfest will take place on November 7, 2024, at The Base in Seraulim, South Goa.