For some, a trip to Europe is a once in a lifetime chance. For others, they make it a priority to ensure that an annual or every few years trip is taken to satisfy the soul. I am in the latter camp these days. Why? I found my first trip quite exhilarating. And as I get older, the desire to secure my legacy means digging deeper into the history of both my paternal and maternal sides and sharing that with my children and grandchildren before I pass along, so to speak. Having that German heritage mostly prompts one to make Oktoberfest mandatory.
It is even more special when wives and friends are hit with the “need to travel” bug and want to participate. This last year, however, the planning of the excursion for 2024 started too late and we lost out to the “savings” punch. So goes the plans of an annual or biannual return to Europe to celebrate Oktoberfest!
Oktoberfest: The World’s Largest Beer Festival
Oktoberfest, held annually in Munich, Germany, is the world’s largest beer festival, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe. This iconic celebration began in 1810 as a royal wedding festivity for Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Bavaria. The citizens of Munich were invited to join the festivities, and the event was so popular that it became an annual tradition.
The festival typically runs from late September (20th) to the first weekend in October (5th), spanning 16 to 18 days. During this time, the Theresienwiese fairgrounds transform into a vibrant hub of beer tents, traditional German food stalls, amusement rides, and live music. The festival showcases Munich’s six major breweries, which serve specially brewed Märzen beer— a rich, amber lager with a higher alcohol content, brewed in March and stored until the festival.
Oktoberfest is more than just beer; it’s a celebration of Bavarian culture. Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional foods, including pretzels, sausages, roast chicken, and regional delicacies. Festivities also include parades, folk dancing, and performances by traditional brass bands.
As the festival has grown, it has inspired numerous Oktoberfest celebrations worldwide, but the Munich event remains the most famous. With its rich history and festive atmosphere, Oktoberfest is a beloved event that embodies the spirit of community, tradition, and, of course, great beer. Whether you’re sipping a frothy stein or dancing to lively polka music, Oktoberfest is a joyous celebration that offers a taste of Bavarian heritage.