Oktoberfest coming to West Swindon as Wildcats host a night of German-inspired fun

By Barrie Hudson - 16 October 2024

SportAttractionsFamily
  • Captain Sam Bullas

    Captain Sam Bullas

On Saturday the Swindon Wildcats are set to transform the Swindon Ice Arena at the Link Centre into a Bavarian wonderland as they host their first ever Oktoberfest celebration.

  • Tyler Plews

    Tyler Plews

Local people are invited to join in the festivities, complete with themed food, drinks, competitions and live music, promising an unforgettable evening for all ages. 

A spokesperson said: "It’s about more than the ice hockey this week, it’s about a great night of exciting entertainment!"

The Wildcats’ Oktoberfest kicks off at 5pm in Studio 1, which will serve as the FanFest zone for the evening. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to make the most of the pre-game activities, starting with an interview with Wildcats Captain Sam Bullas, followed by live music to set the tone for a fun-filled night.

Full Evening Schedule:

? 5pm – Fans arrive and head to the FanFest Zone.
? 5.15pm – Interview with Captain Sam Bullas.
? 5.20pm – Live music, plus time to grab themed food and drinks.
? 6.30pm – Face-off: Swindon Wildcats vs. Telford Tigers.

Post-Game Festivities:

? Interview with Head Coach Aaron Nell.
? More live music and entertainment.
? Player meet-and-greet in the FanFest Zone.
? Jersey Auction and Shirt Off The Back collections, with photo opportunities with Wildcats players.

The Wildcats are looking forward to seeing fans in their best Oktoberfest attire—lederhosen, checked shirts, and Bavarian hats are all encouraged.

The first 100 fans through the doors will receive a special Bavarian green hat, with a few lucky fans finding a surprise prize inside. As always, the fan-favorite 50/50 and Chuck-A-Puck competitions will be in full swing, offering more chances to win.

For those hoping to take home a piece of the night, four Oktoberfest-themed jerseys will be available through the "Shirt Off the Back" promotion. This week’s jerseys feature Reed Sayers, Jake Bricknell, Jamie Smith, and a special spare #23 jersey, with entries starting at just £2.

Fans can enjoy authentic German beers on draught, available exclusively in the FanFest Zone, alongside classic game-day food with a twist—think bratwurst hotdogs, soft pretzels, and traditional giant gingerbread hearts.

The talented Drew Bryant (@DrewBryantMusic) will be providing the soundtrack to the evening, performing live before and after the game in the FanFest area. For the younger fans, the concourse will feature giant games and photo opportunities to add to the festive atmosphere.

The excitement doesn't stop on the ice—fans can also participate in the live auction for game-worn jerseys. The auction will close at 7.30pm on game night, with winners collecting their jerseys from the FanFest Zone post-game, where they’ll also have the chance to snap a memorable photo with their favourite players.

Wildcats fans will have the chance to interact with the players throughout the evening, starting with the pre-game chat with Captain Sam Bullas and a post-game discussion with Head Coach Aaron Nell. After the game, players will join fans in the FanFest Zone for drinks and celebrations, staying late to keep the party going. And of course, the beloved Wildcats mascot, Scratch, will be there to join in the fun!

The Swindon Wildcats face off against the Telford Tigers this Saturday, 19 October, at 6.30pm at the Swindon Ice Arena. Tickets are available now, and fans are encouraged to come early, grab a stein, and be part of the celebration. 

Full details can be found at swindonwildcats.com

Your Comments

Be the first to comment on this article

Login or Register to post a comment on this article

Subscribe to The Link

Registered in England & Wales. No: 4513027, Positive Media Group, Old Bank House, 5 Devizes Road, Old Town, Swindon, SN1 4BJ