Beer lovers from all parts of the world have started coming to Munich for the Oktoberfest, the world’s largest beer festival and travelling funfair.
The Oktoberfest is an important part of Bavarian culture, having been held since 1810.
This year the event runs from 17th September to 3rd October.
The Oktoberfest had its origin in 1810 when Crown Prince Ludwig – who later became King Ludwig I of Bavaria – and Princess Therese of SaxonyHildburghausen celebrated their wedding.
The festival grounds in the midst of town were named after her: “Theresienwiese” which the locals affectionately abbreviated to “Wiesn”.
The beer is best accompanied by Bavarian delicacies such as the classic roast chicken, radishes, Obatzda (specially garnished cream cheese), sausages or spicy fish grilled on a skewer.
Another Wiesn specialty is the ox roasted on a spit at the Ochsenbraterei.
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Tips for an enjoyable Oktoberfest visit
• Make use of public transport for travel to and from the Oktoberfest
• Those who enjoy a less crowded atmosphere should avoid Friday nights, Saturdays and Sunday, as well as October 2 and benefit from calmer weekdays for their Wiesn stroll.
• “Wiesn Hits for Kids”: A list of special offers and services for children and families can be found at www.oktoberfest.eu
• Parents or legal guardians must observe that children under the age of six years – even accompanied by adults – are not allowed in beer tents after 8pm. Persons under the age of 16 years are allowed on the festival grounds after 8pm only if accompanied by a parent/legal guardian.
• Prams are allowed on the festival grounds from Sunday to Friday until 6pm. Due to crowded conditions prams are generally not allowed at the Wiesn on Saturdays and on the holiday “Day of German Unity” (October 3).
• Sturdy shoes are recommended. Flip-flops and ballerinas with thin soles are not suitable for the uneven surface.