Oktoberfest-lite

Didn't manage to make it down to Bayern to wallow in a beer strewn tent with busty Frauleins and leather clad "Jungs"?  Never mind - you don't have to go very far to find something similar right on your doorstep in Cologne.  You can experience a very watered down version in the Oktoberfest tent next to the Sudstadion, although their motto is "....sogar mit den richtigen beer" - they mean Gaffel Kolsch - which is arguably a very far cry from a "Maß" of Oktoberfest Helles.  Nevertheless, that hasn't stopped the locals from donning the traditional gear and heading on down in droves, so a good time is guaranteed by all - as long as you down five Kölsch glasses in quick succession to equal the Oktoberfest traditional "Maß"*.  There's also a party going on in the Deutzerbahnhof where you can celebrate the legendary volksfest in their huge beerhall from the 8th-10th of October (entrance is free). Don't forget to dress up properly - it's not half as much fun in normal clothes - and you can wear the outfit for carnival too - bargain.

Kölner Oktoberfest, Sudstadion - until 03 October (tickets €22.50)
Deutzerbahnhoff - Ottoplatz 7, Cologne, T: 0221 8800615

* I'm joking - the've got "proper" glasses just for the festival...