There is no better time to visit Germany than during the famous annual Oktoberfest celebration. Held in Munich, the Oktoberfest is the world’s largest festival. More than 5 million people attend annually. This 16-day festival originated in 1810 with the wedding of Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Bavaria, who invited the people of Munich to celebrate the happy event with them on the fields in front of the city gates. Eventually, it became an annual event. Though primarily a beer festival, the Oktoberfest includes games, rides, Ferris wheels, parades, and more. The 2012 Oktoberfest begins on September 22nd and lasts until October 7th. If you’re planning on visiting this year’s event, here are some of the highlights that you’ll want to look for.
- Grand Entry and Opening Ceremony. The Grand Entry of the Oktoberfest Landlords and Breweries will take place on September 22nd at 10:45 am. At this time, those owning the Oktoberfest beer halls and breweries make their entry, amid a parade comprised of bands, decorated floats, and horse-drawn carriages. The opening ceremony takes place at noon in the Schottenhamel tent. At this time is the ceremonial tapping of the first keg by the mayor of Munich, who will tap the keg, and say, “O`zapft is!” which is German for “It is tapped.” This is followed b y a 12-gun salute, after which all of the other tents begin to tap their kegs.
- Oktoberfest Costume and Rifleman’s Parade. This parade, which runs through Munich’s city center, boasts more than 7000 performers and is a spectacular event to watch. Different regional groups in local costume, historically attired troops, riflemen, marching bands, horses, oxen, goats and cows march in the three mile procession. This festive display is a testimony to Bavarian tradition, culture, and heritage. This year’s parade will take place on September 23rd at 9:45 am.
- Open Air Oktoberfest concert. Music lovers will particularly enjoy this event. Over 400 Bavarian musicians will perform, big band style, on the steps of one of the largest bronze statues in the world, the Bavaria statue. This is an event that regularly gets rave reviews from fair-goers, so be sure not to miss it. The Open Air Concert will take place on the second Sunday of the Oktoberfest, September 30th, beginning at 11 am. In the event of bad weather, the concert will be postponed to the next Sunday, October 7th.
As you can see, the Oktoberfest is much more than just beer. It has to be, to attract so many visitors every year. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this famous and exciting festival. Plan your trip to the Oktoberfest now.
