Germany> Top Annual Events

Oktoberfest

The Oktoberfest is world-famous for its festive atmosphere, the oceans of beer and tons of food consumed, and last but not least, its rich historical heritage. The German holiday dates back to 1810. In that year Prince Ludwig of Bavaria married Princess Therese von Hildburghausen, and this celebration was held for the public to commemorate the event on October 12, coming to an end five days later. It took place in the fields surrounding Munich, which became the traditional location of the event. In the years thereafter it was held annually and eventually started taking place in September because of the warmer weather. The fest's 14 main tents date back to that time as well.

Locals refer to this festival, which is the biggest public event in the world of this type, as the Wiesn - Fields. It was named Theresienwiesen or Therese's fields after the princess, and shortened to Wiesn over time. The earliest edition featured horse races, and they were actually the focal point of the festivities for many years. In 1811 an agricultural display was added to the program, and survives to this day, unlike the races. Beer was initially limited in quantity, unlike today, where it is among the main aspects of the show. The tiny beer stands gradually became beer tents. An amusement park was added in later years, and entertainment facilities grew rapidly.

The festival marked its 172nd edition this year. It began on September 17 and ended on October 3. Although it has passed, the memory remains, and here are just some of the facts proving it: this year there were 6.1 million visitors from all over the world, who drank 6 million litres of beer and around 33 400 litres of wine. Last year the guests ate a total of 95 oxen, 481 649 chickens, 47 700 kilograms of fish, 179 889 pairs of pork sausages and 560 089 pork knuckles! Consumption is definitely on the rise - in 1950 the consumption was limited to 1500 litres of beer, 88 chickens and 648 338 pairs of pork sausages.

The festivities are marked by some interesting events, such as the Costume and Riflemen's Parade and the Grand Entry of the Oktoberfest Landlords and Breweries. This year the Parade took place on the first day of the festival, September 17. It included 7000 people and covered a route of 7 km. This event is internationally known for the essence of tradition it expresses. Deep-rooted Bavarian habits and customs, bands, gunmen, oxen, goats, decorated carriages, garlands and flag throwers are only part of the scene.

The Grand Entry is a preliminary opening of the Oktoberfest. It is truly a sight to behold, featuring remarkably coloured and designed horse carriages, festive floats and many other interesting elements. This year the Oktoberfest covered an area of 103.79 acres. Around 100 000 seats were provided for guests in the concert halls and other locations. A four-member family would have lived over 52 years on the electricity that was spent over the duration of the event! That probably wasn't a consideration, however, as visitors to the fest spent just short of one billion euro over the 16 days.

Now, we need to mention some of the more important tents. There are 14 total, all serving beer and delightful snacks. You can book a seat in the tent of your choice in advance. The Hippodrome is a favourite of Munich residents, even though it is a bit smaller than the other ones. It is popular mainly with young people, because of the chance to meet someone interesting, or if not, to drink excellent wine. Celebrities have been seen here on occasion.

The Armbrustschutzen tent features a crossbow competition, held since 1895. If that isn't your thing, you can sample some excellent chicken, drink Paulaner beer and listen to live music.

Don't worry that you missed the Oktoberfest. Next year it will start on September 16. See you there!