So it’s September, a time of year most people are clinging to any semblance of summer and rushing off to last minute Mediterranean holidays. But we here at Just Landed have a different plan, because this month is all about Germany.

Germany isn’t exactly the country that comes to mind when you think of summer holidays, but don’t write it off too quickly – September is the perfect time to visit this Western European wonderland. Grab your passport, because you’re not going to want to miss this.

Oktoberfest

Despite its name, Oktoberfest is usually held in September. The famous festival is an excuse to dress up in traditional Bavarian gear, eat sausage, and, of course, drink beer. Lasting two weeks, people from all over the world flock to Munich to bond over their mutual love of beer, Bavaria, and bratwurst.

Cities all around the world have jumped on the Oktoberfest bandwagon, but none compare to the original in Munich, which has been happening annually since 1810. Typically, visitors spend the day flitting between beer tents before returning to their own tent in the campsite to gear up for the next day of drinking.

Oktoberfest 2016 will run from September 17th to October 2nd.

Oberammergau Passion Play

What better thing is there to celebrate than surviving the bubonic plague? The villagers of Oberammergau certainly agreed with the sentiment, when upon surviving the deadly disease, vowed to perform their Passion Play every ten years.

The play itself is a performance of the life of Christ – which can last for up to eight hours and has a cast of 2,000 people! The citizens of Oberammergau have kept their promise for 400 years now, with their next performance taking place in 2020.

Festival-Mediaval

It may only be September, but winter is certainly coming! With the fantasy genre growing increasingly popular thanks to likes of HBO’s Game of Thrones, many people want to experience a day in the life of medieval Europe. It may not be Westeros, but Festival-Mediaval features medieval music, food, shows – and even includes roaming performers so you’re always part of the action. Taking part in Selb, this annual performance is a must for history buffs and fantasy fans everywhere.

This year’s festival will take place between the 9th and 11th of September.

Berlin International Literature Festival

If you’re more into Brontë than beer, this might be the place for you. Founded in 2001, the festival is a chance to celebrate all the new developments in the literary world. Featuring readings, talks, and panels, all texts are presented in their mother tongue, giving the festival a very multicultural vibe. It also has a section focusing on children’s and young adult literature, making it a perfect place for a family visit.

2016’s festival takes place between the 7th and 17th September.

How would you spend an ideal September in Germany?