Dundee Rotary has called time on its Oktoberfest beer and music festival

Starting in 2011, the annual Oktoberfest, organised by the Rotary Club of Dundee, has raised £135,000 for good causes in the city and surrounding area.

The 2019 event was extremely well organised and managed, but unfortunately, the club has decided to end the charity event. 

The decision has been prompted by higher operating costs since the event moved from Discovery Quay to Slessor Gardens two years ago and a lower turnout last year.

Rotary Club Past President and Oktoberfest Committee Chair, Robert Dunn said the festival had been a very successful and popular charity fundraiser since 2011.

He continued, “The 2019 event ran extremely smoothly and was enjoyed by those who attended the three nights and who also gave very good feedback. 

“There was also praise from Dundee City Council and other bodies for the professional approach and management of the event”

“Such events depend on ticket sales and even more so on the commitment and availability of Rotary Club members, who are all volunteers and many of whom give a great amount of time to the operation of the event. 

“We thank our members, our suppliers, the variety of local bands who play each year and most of all the great audiences who have supported us over the lifetime of the event”

Dundee Rotary Club President Mary Crighton said the decision to end the Oktoberfest was disappointing, but would allow the club to look at alternative options for raising funds in the future.

She also emphasised that the decision in no way affects the club’s plans to continue to provide financial support to local good causes this year and beyond.