What can one say about The Oktoberfest that hasn’t already been said before? A whirlwind affair for the senses, it is a must for every beer lover, but also for those looking for an opportunity to steep themselves into German tradition. The festival which is the world’s largest Volkfest (beer festival) and runs for three consecutive weeks, is truly astounding for many reasons.
A feast for the senses
Located in Munich, Germany, Oktoberfest is an integral part of Bavarian culture, with the event having been held there since 1810. The festival, held in an area named the Theresienwiese, is located near Munich’s centre. It is there where copious amounts of Oktoberfest Beer is consumed, with an average of 7.7 million litres served during the festival! Only beer brewed within the city limits of Munich can be served at the Munich Oktoberfest and one of the best and most famous tents to give these beers a taste is the Hippodrom. You would be wrong however to assume that it’s only about the beer!
Photo credits: CN
You can expect an eclectic mix of attractions such as amusement rides, side stalls and games, a smorgasbord of mouthwatering traditional foods such as Schweinebraten (roast pork), Schweinshaxe (grilled ham hock), Wuerstl (sausages) and Brezeln (pretzels) among many others. You’ll be sure to find something at one of the 34 tents open to the public. The food alone is enough to make a trip to Oktoberfest worthwhile! Not to be forgotten is the traditional Bavarian music that is blasted throughout the festival and is affectionately known to tourists as Oompah music. You’ll have bands consisting of a singer, accordionist, tuba player and small horn serenading you wherever you go; Oktoberfest is anything but quiet- be prepared for a pleasant assault on the senses!
Photo credits: xsnowdog
History revisited Of Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is deeply intertwined with tradition and history, with the first festival being held in honor of Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen which was the Bavarian Crown Prince’s wife. The locals fondly like to refer to the festival as “die Wiesn” because of its location, Theresienwiese, named after the aforementioned princess.
Explore Munich
If you have travelled all the way to Germany to partake in the festivities, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Munich itself. Start by visiting the heart of the city, Marienplatz, where you will find extraordinary churches as well as the old and a new Town Hall that houses the 100 year old Glockenspiel. Just a few steps away, you’ll find the Viktualienmarkt, Munich’s daily outdoor farmers Market- another feast for the senses. For those interested in visiting museums, the Deutsches Museum is a must. All in all, a beautiful city that has a great deal to offer.
Entry and venue For Oktoberfest 2015
A delightful surprise to the Oktoberfest visitor is the fact that there is no entry fee to join the fun. You may enter any tent you wish, free of charge, but it is highly recommended you book seats in advance as tents fill up quickly. As a general rule, arrive no later than 2:30pm on the weekends and if possible get yourself a seat in the morning!
Be sure to reach the venue by public transportation as there will be virtually no parking possibilities nearby.
Oktoberfest Dates for 2015
September 19th – October 4th
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