The German Beer Festival, Oktoberfest, has officially returned to Belfast, with friends and patrons enjoying the first night of the festivities and getting into the weekend spirit early.
The popular event is a small imitation of the World-Famous Oktoberfest held annually in Munich, bringing a taste of Bavaria to the city.
The festival is scheduled to run through until October 25, operating every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday throughout its run.
Attendees can expect a traditional atmosphere, with a full selection of German food and drinks on offer to complement the experience.
A central feature of the event is the live entertainment, provided by an authentic Oom Pa Pa band, which helps set the festive and lively tone for the returning festival.
Photographer Justin Kernoghan was on hand on Thursday, September 25, to capture the atmosphere and the good times being had by the many people who came out for the opening night.
While the festival promises weekend enjoyment, the Met Office has issued a rain forecast for the immediate weekend ahead, with an alert in place until 7pm on Saturday evening, September 26.
Despite the possibility of wet weather, the festival's return marks a significant event on the city's social calendar, providing a unique cultural and social outlet for the community over the next few weeks.
Patrons are encouraged to look through the photo gallery for highlights from the first day of the popular Belfast event.
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