The Oktoberfest is the world's biggest Volksfest, originating from a royal wedding celebration in 1810. It draws over seven million people and features 14 massive beer tents serving traditional beer. The festival also includes parades, a giant fairground, and iconic Bavarian food like roast chicken and pretzels. It is recommended to book lodging early and plan ahead for the full experience.
This is the brief on Oktoberfest. Okay, so, Oktoberfest. It's the world's biggest Volksfest, right? A huge folk festival drawing over seven million people. It's this centuries-old Bavarian tradition from a royal wedding back in 1810. This brief just covers the key history and what you need to know if you're thinking of going. All right, first, where did it start? October 12, 1810, a royal wedding celebration for Crown Prince Ludwig. But even though it started in October, it got popular fast.
So now it usually runs from mid-September to the first Sunday in October. And it's still held at the original spot, Ferries and Weiss, or Therese's Meadow. Second, the modern vibe. It's huge, but, you know, kind of organized. You've got 14 massive beer tents from Munich's six traditional breweries serving only their beer in those big one-liter Maus mugs. It's not just beer, though. There are cool parades, like one showing off traditional Bavarian clothes called Trokton, plus a giant fairground with rides like the famous Olympia looping rollercoaster.
It's actually the world's largest portable one. Finally, practical tips, food and lodging. You gotta try Bavarian food like Hendel, that's roast chicken, or Schweinshaxe, the roasted pork knuckle. Oh, and grab those giant Bresna pretzels. And definitely try the Abidsdott cheese spread. Book lodging way early, maybe by February, because prices soar, especially near the tents in Ludwig's Vorstadt. Or you can look at Altstadt-Lahal for a good mix of culture and convenience. Basically, Oktoberfest blends royal history, Munich beer, and classic Bavarian food.
Just make sure you plan ahead for the full experience.