Schlenkerla Bockbieranstich 2027: Urbock Festival in Bamberg

Welcome to the Schlenkerla Bockbieranstich 2027 in Bamberg

The Schlenkerla Bockbieranstich has always followed a fixed rule: it takes place on the first Thursday after German Unity Day (October 3). For 2027, that means October 7. On this day, the Urbock is tapped at the traditional Schlenkerla brewery tavern in Bamberg's old town, marking the start of Franconia's bock beer season, which runs until just before Epiphany.

Highlights: What to Expect at the Bamberg Bock Tapping

• The official tapping of the Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier Urbock right in front of the historic brewery
• Standing bar service at the Dominikanerhof next to the Schlenkerla
• A strong smoked beer with around 6.5% alcohol, aged for months in the historic rock cellars beneath the Stephansberg
• Hearty Franconian food to match the bock beer at the historic brewery tavern
• A family atmosphere at one of Bamberg's oldest and best-known brewery taverns
• A festival in the heart of Bamberg's old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Program and Schedule 2027

The evening centers on the ceremonial tapping of the Urbock cask, brought up specially for the occasion from the rock cellar. Around the tapping, the Dominikanerhof opens as a standing bar where the freshly tapped beer can be enjoyed alongside Franconian specialties. The brewery has not yet published an official start time for 2027; the tavern's regular opening hours run year-round from 9:30am to 11:30pm. Check the official website closer to the date for the exact time.

Tickets and Prices

The Bockbieranstich at Schlenkerla is a free event with no entry fee or ticket requirement. Visitors only pay for the beer and food they order on site, either at the brewery tavern or the standing bar at the Dominikanerhof.

Visitor Tips: Getting There and Accommodation in Bamberg

• Bamberg's old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so travel by train or public transport is recommended over driving
• Schlenkerla is centrally located on Dominikanerstraße, within walking distance of Bamberg's main train station
• As the tapping is very popular and standing room at the Dominikanerhof is limited, arriving early is recommended
• Evenings in early October can already be cool, so warm clothing is advisable
• Accommodation in Bamberg should be booked early given the popularity of bock beer season