Oktoberfest is one of the world’s longest-running and most popular festivals, but many of us only know it for the specialty beers that are brewed for it. However, this festival is about more than just beer. It is a celebration of Bavarian culture that dates back over 200 years. Millions of people travel to Munich each year for this monumental event to sample the beer, enjoy the atmosphere, and make some memories along the way. This year's festival starts on 20 September, so it’s not too late to get a last-minute flight to Munich and join in on the fun!
Origin Story
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The first ever Oktoberfest was actually an event held to celebrate the royal wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria to Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. The citizens of Munich were invited to join in a public festival in the fields outside the city gates. These fields were later renamed Theresienwiese (pictured above), meaning Therese’s Meadow, in honour of the newly wed Princess. The main event of the celebration was a horse race that was intended to bring together people from every facet of Bavarian society in mutual celebration.
Becoming an Annual Event
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While it was not intended initially to be an annual event, it was such a success that they decided to repeat it the following year. While the horse race continued to be the main event, the festivities expanded to include agricultural shows that allowed farmers to show off their harvests and livestock. This tied the event more closely to the region's rural traditions and began to attract more visitors. Over time, it became bigger and more popular, bringing in more people who wanted to get a taste of Bavarian culture.
Continued Growth
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As the decades passed, the festival continued to grow. While it was not held during times of strife, like during major wars or disease outbreaks, it always came back bigger than ever. With the addition of beer tents and gardens and the increase in attractions like live music, Oktoberfest shifted from being a mainly agricultural event to more of a general cultural exchange, featuring the best of Bavarian food, beer, and music. It also shifted into September to take advantage of the milder weather, helping it to grow to the massive popularity that it enjoys today.
Beer Tents and Gardens
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Only 6 breweries are permitted to sell beer at Oktoberfest, which preserves the festival's authenticity and quality. These breweries set up large tents that serve beer that was brewed within the city walls and is carefully crafted to pair well with the food that is served. Each brewery brings its own style to their tents, featuring a different atmosphere and music. These tents have become the true heart of modern Oktoberfest, and hopping from tent to tent to try the different beers and food is the core activity for many guests.
Fun and Games
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Many of the other activities and attractions that can be found at Oktoberfest are as you would find at any fair or festival. Parades are put on that feature Bavarian cultural floats and costumes. There is a large amusement park that has a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, carousels, and carnival games. And of course, lots of authentic Bavarian fare to try, from pretzels to pork knuckles, that all pair perfectly with the specialty beers served. With all the activity and excitement, it’s easy to see why Oktoberfest has become a global sensation!
