In the fall, Munich Germany comes alive with an intoxicating brew of excitement. The Bavarian city of Munich is abuzz with revelry as it hosts its famous Oktoberfest – a three-weekend festival that celebrates all things German!
Munich’s Oktoberfest is one of the world’s most enduring festivals. It attracts millions of merrymakers both from across Europe and around the globe to join in on the celebration. Not only does this festival boast a robust selection of delectable food; but also boasts many activities including carnival rides, amusement rides as well as live performances by renowned orchestras.
For avid beer lovers and connoisseurs alike, there are over 607 different kinds of beer available at Munich’s Oktoberfest. Furthermore, attendees can savor over 37 types of wurst (sausage) sausages being dished out along with other culinary delights such as pretzels or strudel baked goods. With so much deliciousness on offer, how could anyone possibly choose which dish they want?!
With numerous attractions and experiences to partake in at Munich’s Oktoberfest, there will be something for everyone from giant Ferris wheels to go karting rounds and more! If you’re looking for something truly thrilling then why not try one of the high-speed roller coasters featured at this year’s event?
The Beginning of the Oktoberfest
For nearly 300 years, the Oktoberfest has been an annual celebration that offers up luscious food and indulgent libations for visitors from all over the world.
The first edition of this festival was held in 1810. Like its counterpart Mardi Gras, it was conceived as a means by which Bavarian cities could celebrate their liberation from Habsburg rule.
While we don’t yet know when the next festival will take place, chances are you can anticipate an eventful weekend with such heavy hitters as renowned chefs, World Cup champions and international celebrities.
How Many Days Does the Oktoberfest Last?
For up to six weeks each year, visitors can savor countless flavors at the world’s largest folk festival.
Don’t expect to leave Munich before the final day of festivities! Typically taking place over an October/November period, a visit to this Bavarian institution offers ample opportunity for sampling lunchtime kegs and enjoying some hearty fare with your pals.
What is There to Do at The Munich Oktoberfest?
It can be hard to find an excuse not to visit Germany’s most popular festival, but if you’re planning a trip to Munich’s Oktoberfest, there are so many activities to choose from!
Skip the horse races and head straight for the beer tents for an unforgettable experience. Treat yourself or better still – treat a friend in style! The possibilities are endless!
Where Is The Munich Oktoberfest Held?
The vast majority of revelers congregate in the city center, where most of its well-known landmarks are situated.
The annual celebration of Munich’s Lebkuchenherzigung – or “Nutcrackling Festival” – takes place over two weekends every October at the City Park (Stadtkirchenpark). This year alone saw three different events held alongside the festivities: on September 22nd-23rd, from October 6th-8th and finally on October 21st-22nd!
The location of this event is not only hospitable to festival-goers, but also ideal for Oktoberfest newcomers; it’s just a short stroll away from any number of neighborhoods offering a range of accommodations despite its proximity to the city center.
Which Beer is Best at the Oktoberfest?
Though all of the beers served at the Oktoberfest are absolutely delightful, the go-to is the Augustiner Lager. This beer derives its name from Bavaria’s capital city – and it is brewed according to traditional recipes handed down over generations before being introduced into circulation! Its exquisite balance between maltiness and hops provides an unrivalled note of perfection that one cannot help but savor; a profound experience indeed!
Another fan favorite is Hacker-Pschorr. This lager offers up flavors reminiscent of roasted grains, yet with a crisp finish that leaves you wanting more – certainly worth savoring!
If you’re seeking something different than your typical amber ale or stout, then we highly recommend sampling Paulaner Original Munich Dunkel. This dark lager has been an annual presence at the festival since 1810; its robust flavor profile boasts hints of caramelization alongside a generous dose of woody notes for a truly unique experience!
When Is The First Day of The Oktoberfest?
The festivities officially commence on the first day of October, known as ‘Opening Day’. Some establishments will be inviting patrons in prior to then; nonetheless, none opens before noon on this first Saturday in the month – an apt omen for its auspicious arrival!
On the opening day, more than six million revelers flock to Munich’s annual Oktoberfest and sample its fare. This year, it is anticipated that over 4.5 million people from across Germany and around the world will descend upon the Bavarian capital; moreover, over a quarter of these patrons hail from foreign countries like Turkey and Brazil.
The History of Munich’s ‘Oktoberfest’
Munich’s renowned Oktoberfest began its illustrious history in 1810 as an offshoot of the wine festival held annually at Prince Luitpold’s palace.
Soon after its establishment, it was swiftly recognized as one of Bavaria’s premier annual celebrations – an assertion that has been affirmed for more than 200 years!
Early iterations of the festival were quite modest affairs; it had only three main facets: a contest between two horse-drawn carriages with lanterns on top, a demonstration of horsemanship skills and a costume parade featuring some of Munich’s finest folkloric costumes.
With each successive iteration, the festivities have undergone an evolution whereby oomph has been added to their repertoire. This expansion process has resulted in numerous additions over the years – such as additional areas such as St. Pauli, and new attractions such as live music performances or special events such as parades around the city’s squares.
Conclusion
The Bavarian capital is one of the world’s most captivating cities, and its annual Oktoberfest celebration is an absolute must-see.
Oktoberfest is a mecca for revelry, indulgence and entertainment. As you visit this realm of joy, it becomes abundantly clear why it remains an enduring symbol of Bavarian culture.
