Oktoberfest is the world’s largest folk festival that attracts millions of visitors to Munich every year from all around the world. Spanning over 2 weeks, this German festival is all about celebrating Bavarian culture with flowing pints of beer and amazing food. Drinking beer is the main activity at the event and in 2013 nearly eight million litres of beer was served during the festival. In addition to eating and drinking, there are hundreds of fairgrounds attractions and activities such as giant rides, colourful parades, music and dance, food stalls, and fair games that are setup at the Oktoberfest grounds. The festival is upon us and if you are a devoted beer lover then booking a trip to Oktoberfest would be well worth the money you would spend on flights. Here are a few things you should know about the world’s biggest beer festival.
When and Where
This year, Oktoberfest will be held from September 21 till October 6. The festival is held in the meadow just outside the city centre. Although a day tour of the fest could be enough for some, a two to three days trip is recommended to truly enjoy the festival.
What to Expect
This world renowned German festival has been going on since 1810 every year. People from Germany and other countries gather, drink, eat, dance and enjoy the festival as much as they can. Entry to this festival is absolutely free; however, you can reserve tables at beer tents in advance.
The main attractions of this fest are its large and small beer tents. The tradition of having tents goes back to the start of the festival. The large tents (some as big as to accommodate ten thousand visitors on more than one level) have beautiful facades, wooden table and benches. Each of these beer tents remain abuzz with locals as well as tourists clad in colourful dresses enjoying beer, music, dance and food. The Hofbräu Tent is among the most famous, and is where foreign tourists usually gather.
Food
Along with a variety of beer, you can enjoy delicious food at the fest. Huge quantities of grilled sausages, roast chicken and giant pretzels are consumed at Oktoberfest each year and you can also go for pork knuckles, smoked fish, roasted ribs, a variety of gingerbreads and other tasty choices.
Dressing up
There isn’t any specific dress code, but many locals as well as tourists wear traditional Bavarian outfits. Men wear Lederhosen, whereas women wear Dirndl. The traditional Bavarian gear can be easily had from several shops in Munich.
What else?
Being a folk fest, Oktoberfest attracts all kind of visitors including families, so you can expect almost all sorts of fairground attractions. Along with several rides, you will come across candyfloss stalls, shooting galleries, music shows, marching bands, shopping galleries, and a lot more.