Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany is a centuries-old festival known for its world-famous Bavarian beer. This year’s festival is expected to draw in around six million people over the course of 16 days. Mayor Dieter Reiter officially started the festivities by tapping the first beer keg, marking the 189th start of Oktoberfest. Security measures have been increased this year following a deadly knife attack in Solingen, prompting the addition of metal detectors for the first time in the festival’s history. Despite this, there have been no concrete threats reported.
The atmosphere at Oktoberfest is lively, with thousands of beer lovers coming together to enjoy the celebration. Servers transport trays filled with up to eight glass mugs to eager patrons, as the event runs through October 6 in 18 large tents on the Theresienwiese fairground. An opening parade kicked off the festival, attracting tens of thousands of spectators who lined the streets to watch. Visitors can expect to shell out between 13.60 and 15.30 euros for a 1-litre mug of beer, with prices slightly higher than in previous years. Despite the potential overcrowding and messiness of the event, attendees like Mikael Caselitz believe that everyone should experience Oktoberfest at least once.
Ollie Standen, a 21-year-old student from England attending Oktoberfest as part of a university exchange program, woke up early to join in the festivities. He is excited to try different German beers that are not typically available in the United Kingdom and is looking forward to participating in the German tradition. The event did not take place in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but returned in 2022.
The first Oktoberfest was held on October 17, 1810, to celebrate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria to Theresa of Saxony. Since then, the festival has grown in popularity and has become a major event on the cultural calendar. As the largest folk festival in the world, Oktoberfest attracts millions of visitors each year who come to enjoy the beer, food, and entertainment. The festive atmosphere and camaraderie make Oktoberfest a memorable experience for all who attend.
Overall, Oktoberfest in Munich is a celebration of Bavarian culture and traditions that has stood the test of time for over two centuries. The festival continues to be a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike, offering a unique experience filled with beer, food, music, and fun. With increased security measures in place, organizers are working to ensure the safety of attendees while still providing a festive and enjoyable atmosphere. As one of the most famous events in Germany, Oktoberfest remains a must-visit destination for those looking to experience the best of Bavarian hospitality and beer-drinking culture.
