Oktoberfest

Adam Pferderennen Oktoberfest 1823

Carl Kricheldorf Portrait eines Mädchens in Tracht

Munich Bavaria

Gamsbaerte 2194

Oktoberfest - Flickr - GregTheBusker

Historische Wiesen 2010

Oktoberfest is the world's largest Volksfest (beer festival and travelling funfair) held annually in Munich, Bavaria, Germany. It is a 16- to 18-day folk festival running from late September to the first Sunday in October, with more than six million people from around the world attending the event every year. During the event, large quantities of Oktoberfest Beer are consumed, with visitors enjoying numerous attractions, such as amusement rides, sidestalls, and games. There is also a wide variety of traditional foods available.

The Oktoberfest tradition started in 1810 to celebrate the October 12th marriage of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig to the Saxon-Hildburghausen Princess Therese. The citizens of Munich were invited to join in the festivities which were held on the fields in front of the city gates. These fields were named Theresienwiese ("Therese's Meadow") in honour of the Crown Princess, although the locals have since abbreviated the name simply to the "Wies'n".

History

The first Oktoberfest was held in the year 1810 in honor of the Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig's marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The festivities were held on the fields in front of the city gates now known as Theresienwiese. The event was such a success that it was decided to repeat it annually. Over the years, the festival was prolonged and moved ahead into September to allow for better weather conditions. This move allowed for the festival goers to enjoy the gardens and the outdoor tents more comfortably.

Oktoberfest Beer

Oktoberfest Beer is a special type of beer that is brewed specifically for the festival. This beer is also known as Märzen because it was traditionally brewed in March and allowed to ferment slowly during the summer months. It is a rich, full-bodied beer that has a higher alcohol content than the average German lager. Only six breweries, which are located within the city limits of Munich, are allowed to produce this special beer. These breweries are collectively known as the "Big Six": Augustiner-Bräu, Hacker-Pschorr, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, Spatenbräu, and Staatliches Hofbräu-München.

Traditions and Events

A key event at the start of the Oktoberfest is the traditional parade of the Wiesn landlords and breweries. This parade is followed by the official opening ceremony in the Schottenhamel tent, where the Mayor of Munich has the honor of tapping the first keg of Oktoberfest beer, declaring "O'zapft is!" ("It's tapped!"). Another important tradition is the wearing of traditional Bavarian attire, such as Lederhosen for men and Dirndl for women.

The festival is also known for its music, with both traditional and modern bands playing across the various tents. Traditional Bavarian music is a staple, but pop and international hits are also common as the evening progresses.

Food and Attractions

Oktoberfest is not just about the beer; there is also a plethora of traditional Bavarian foods to enjoy. These include Hendl (roast chicken), Schweinebraten (roast pork), Schweinshaxe (grilled ham hock), Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a stick), Würstl (sausages), along with Brezn (Pretzels), Knödel (potato or bread dumplings), Käsespätzle (cheese noodles), and Sauerkraut or Rotkohl/Blaukraut (red cabbage).

In addition to the food and beer, there are numerous attractions and rides, from traditional carousels to high-tech roller coasters, ensuring that the Oktoberfest offers something for all ages.

Impact and Cultural Significance

Oktoberfest has a significant impact on the Bavarian culture, showcasing the region's traditions, foods, and music. It also has a substantial economic impact on Munich, attracting tourists from all over the globe. The festival has inspired numerous similar events around the world, spreading the joy and traditions of the Bavarian festival globally.