If you’ve got time for some hearty knee-slapping, Oktoberfest is where it’s at. From the 18th September to 3rd October the city of Munich once again hosts Europe’s largest festival.
Six million people are expected to attend, and the Theresienwiese is all set to hold an enormous array of beer stands, craft tents and entertainments.
The history of the event
Starting out in 1810, this beer fest was originally a celebration of Prince Ludwig and Princess Terese’s wedding. The people of Munich knew a good thing when they saw one, and decided to make it a yearly occurrence, introducing games stands and food tents along the way. One of the best things about the festival is the fact that it carries this atmosphere of the past with it. For all its modernity, and also being a very clean and well-organised party, it still feels somehow sentimental. I’m not saying you’ll be weeping into your tankard when the party ends, but I’m not saying you won’t be either.
What's on offer?
Things kick off at the Schottenhamel Tent at midday on the 18th. This is when the mayor taps open the first keg of beer (and no doubt has a bit of a sample of its contents). On all other days the smaller beer tents remain open from 10am to 10:30pm on Weekdays, 9am to 10:30 at weekends. Two of the main tents to watch out for are the Käfer Wiesn-Schänke and the Weinzelt. These stay open ‘til 1am, and can house a lot more party than most.
There are also carnival rides and games running until late every day, and every Tuesday is Family day, meaning reduced price tickets, games, and rides, so that the kids can get in on the fun even if they can’t enjoy the incredible German beer.
Visit the lowcostholidays.com Munich City guide for more information on the destination.
Head over to Germany for this year's Oktoberfest. Book your Munich accommodation and flights online with lowcostholidays.com.