Every year Munich is transformed into the venue for the biggest folklore festival, the Oktoberfest. The festival is mainly known for its beer, traditional clothing and music. Millions of fans come from all over the world to enjoy its unique atmosphere. Oktoberfest traditionally starts on the third Saturday in September.

What is Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest is not only the biggest folk festival, but also the biggest beer festival. It is a really big event, as it lasts a total of sixteen days and usually ends on the first Sunday in October. Although it has October in its name, it actually regularly takes place in September. The festival is a showcase of various Bavarian traditions. In addition to a huge amount of beer, you will also find traditional culinary specialities, music, fairground rides and lots of other varied entertainment.

Historical roots

The first Oktoberfest took place on 17 October 1810 to celebrate the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. According to legend, a member of the National Guard came up with the idea to hold the festival, but experts do not accept this claim.

However, the form of the celebrations was different from what we know now. Initially, it was mainly about horse races and folk entertainment. The sale of beer and food began in 1818, and over time a beer festival unparalleled in the world was created.

Today, six million litres of beer are commonly consumed. ━━ Today, six million litres of beer are commonly consumed. ( Source: kzenon /  iStockphoto )

Beer as an integral part

Beer consumption was popular in the past and is still popular today. It has very naturally become an integral part of the festivities. According to figures from 1835, 250 000 litres were drunk. And the numbers continued to grow extremely. Today, approximately six million litres of beer are consumed each year.

Why does Oktoberfest take place in September?

As the name suggests, it refers to October. It refers to the month in which the first festival took place. So why is Oktoberfest celebrated in September? The answer is simple, because the reason is the weather. Complaints about the cold and rainy weather were already abounding in 1828, which is why the first attempts were made to move the date, but without success. It was not until the end of the 19th century that a change came about, when the festival gradually began to be held during September. By 1905, the date was officially set for September.

Oktoberfest persists

It is a truism that once you’ve been to an Oktoberfest, you never forget it. But why is it so popular that it attracts visitors from all over the world? It’s not just a beer festival, but the festival is also a symbol of German pride. It brings people together and offers a joy that people can share together.