Gunwharf Quays is marking the start of autumn with the return of its Student Event alongside the opening of its seasonal event, ‘Castaway Cove Presents Oktoberfest’.
Taking place on 1st October, the free student event will give students the chance to win £100 shopping sprees, discover exclusive offers from leading brands, and enjoy live DJs, freebies, and a packed evening of entertainment and activities, with an additional 40% off outlet prices at favourite Gunwharf Quays brands.
A new addition to this year’s event is the Student Shopper Sweep. Inspired by the classic show ‘Supermarket Sweep’, some lucky students will get the opportunity to take part in a series of high-energy five-minute shopping sprees, racing around some of Gunwharf Quays’ biggest brands including Nike, Lucy & Yak and HOKA to fill their baskets.
The Student Event will take place from 5pm-9pm with a new £100 winner selected every 30 minutes from 5pm onwards, giving students the chance to shop their favourite brands for free.
During the evening, students will also have the opportunity to experience ‘Castaway Cove Presents Oktoberfest’, located at the Plaza. Set beneath a large stretch tent decorated with festoon lighting, Bavarian bunting, and seasonal foliage, guests can also enjoy live entertainment from a traditional house Oompah band. Interactive games including table football and ‘throw the pretzel’ ring toss, sit alongside themed photo opportunities, creating a fun-filled experience for friends and families alike.
Guests can also sample authentic Bavarian food and drink, with a swinging grill hut serving traditional German sausages, including vegan alternatives, alongside freshly made churros. The bar offers Bavarian beers on tap, alongside seasonal favourites like mulled wine and cider, hot chocolate, and themed cocktails.
To keep guests warm on cooler autumn evenings, the seating areas will be fully enclosed and equipped with heaters, cushions, and rugs. The seasonal event is now open until the end of October, from 12pm-8pm every Thursday to Sunday, with Oompah band performances between 1pm-3pm and 5pm-7pm.
Yvonne Clay, Centre Director at Gunwharf Quays, said: “We’re excited to kick off autumn at Gunwharf Quays, starting with the return of our Student Event at Gunwharf Quays. The addition of the new Shopper Sweep competition gives students the chance to kick off the academic year in style with an unforgettable shopping experience in the heart of the city.
“It’s a fantastic way to welcome new and returning students to Portsmouth, while showcasing the breadth of brands, experiences, and entertainment on offer at Gunwharf Quays.
“We are also thrilled to host ‘Castaway Cove Presents Oktoberfest’ at the Plaza, creating a vibrant seasonal destination where guests can enjoy traditional live Oompah music, games, and authentic food this autumn.
“From £100 shopping sprees to exclusive student offers, live DJs, and a Bavarian atmosphere at ‘Castaway Cove Presents Oktoberfest’, there is plenty for guests to enjoy at Gunwharf Quays this autumn.”
For more information about the offers available, and to sign up to the Student Shopper Sweep event, visit https://www.gunwharf-quays.com/en/welcome-to-student-shopper-sweep-at-gunwharf-quays
