After two years of canceled festivals, Oktoberfest returns September 17 – October 3, 2022 for what promises to be the largest, most-joyous celebration in its history.
Every year, more than seven million thirsty visitors descend on the German city of Munich for a two-and-a-half week celebration featuring parades, fair rides, traditional food and music, and of course, lots of beer.
Oktoberfest can be an exciting event for outsiders to experience Bavarian culture, but it can be hectic and difficult to navigate for the uninitiated, particularly after a few liters of Löwenbräu. Especially this year as more crowds than ever will pack the festival grounds. Don’t fret – we’ve got you covered with this guide to the festival of all festivals.
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Milling the grain since 1810: a brief history of Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest began back in 1810 as a series of horse races honoring the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. It was such a big hit that it became an annual event with more activities popping up every year. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that sausages and beer were served. Nowadays, the keg-tapping and countless meaty morsels on offer are the most recognizable aspect of the event, along with the traditional Bavarian garb.
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The main attraction: the millions of liters of beer
The first thing to mention is the sheer volume of the alcohol – almost 7 million liters of beer are served every year, along with 95,000 liters of wine. Waitresses adorned with the traditional Dirndl and waiters donning Lederhosen ferry giant frothing mugs, called Masskruege, of beer to thirsty attendees. Even this simple act is a spectacle as they are often carrying an unbelievable number at once – the current world record is for 26 full Masskrug!
All the great food that’ll accompany the beer
The second most exciting attraction is the food – Bavarians will typically begin a day at the Oktoberfest with some Weisswurst, a white sausage consisting of veal and bacon meat. Lunch might be…
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