A Munich Tradition Spread To The World: All About Oktoberfest

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Even if you have never set foot in Germany, I imagine you have heard of one of the most celebrated folk festivals in the world: Oktoberfest. And while it has evolved over the years, Oktoberfest continues to be a draw to Munich for almost seven million people every year. Living here in Munich for the past year and a half, Charlie and I have gotten to see firsthand the masses of Trachten wearing guests and have heard from both locals and visitors alike the best (and worst!) parts of this festival. Seeing as this past Sunday wrapped up the Oktoberfest festivities, I thought it could be fun to dive into some of the most common questions people have regarding Oktoberfest, its history and everything to keep in mind when you visit! 

Oktoberfest History: Who Started Oktoberfest & Where Did Oktoberfest Originate

Oktoberfest officially began as a large horse race during wedding festivities to celebrate the marriage of the soon to be King Ludwig I and his bride, Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen in 1810. These festivities lasted for five days in the center of Munich, Germany in a meadow that became known as the “Theresens-Wiese” in honor of the bride, Princess Therese. While Oktoberfest began without any beer tents or fair rides, this first horse race in Munich became the launching point for this large folk festival and only nine years later, by 1819, Oktoberfest became a city funded event to celebrate annually. Over the years following its official creation, Oktoberfest only was canceled occasionally for epidemics or wars and mostly expanded into the vast array of beer halls, rides, shows, booths and stalls that it is known for today. Still though, remnants of the first Oktoberfest can be seen in both the name of the location (the fairgrounds are still called “Theresienwiese” or “the Wiesn” for short) and through a celebratory horse race on special anniversary years (SOURCE). 

What Month Is Oktoberfest In? 

While the original wedding celebration was on October 12, 1810 and celebrated for the five days following, today Oktoberfest stretches three weekends from the end of September to the beginning of October. This year the festival ran from Saturday, September 21st to Sunday, October 6th. 

So, why is Oktoberfest in September if it originally began in October? After realizing that September nights are longer and warmer than the often rainy weather of October, officials moved the festival to routinely run from September into October to capitalize on the prettiest weather possible, therefore allowing it to end the Sunday following German Unity Day (October 3rd). Certainly, this date change can make it a bit confusing given that it is called “Oktoberfest”, however having experienced the festival in both warm sun and cold rain, I believe the change was definitely worth it! 

When To Visit?! 

Now that you know a bit more of the history and timing of Oktoberfest, when should you visit?! Well, that all depends on what you hope to see. If you are hoping to experience the traditional opening parade, then I recommend coming that first weekend in September to capitalize on the initial festivities and likely, warmer weather. Regardless of whether or not you come at the beginning, middle or end though, I personally prioritize and recommend planning your timing on arriving to the Wiesn by going early in the day for smaller and less rowdy crowds. Most days, the fairgrounds are open from 10 am to 11:30 pm, with some longer hours on the weekends (you can check opening times HERE). Oktoberfest did not begin as a beer festival, however for many, it has become known as one with kegs tapped daily at 12 noon, so if you would like to experience the more authentic and less chaotic version of Oktoberfest, arriving close to opening time and staying to enjoy lunch can provide a more wholesome experience than if you show up for dinner or later.  

Traditional or No…What To Wear?

Tratchen, or traditional clothes, are commonly seen all throughout Oktoberfest (and the city) as many pull out their full attire for this festival. So, what does Tratchen consist of? Well, for ladies that includes a Dirndl and for gents, Lederhosen. Originally a working garment, a Dirndl typically consists of an under blouse, dress and apron with varying additions, however Dirndls often vary depending on your town or region and can be found at every level of quality for a variety of occasions ranging from festivals to weddings. Likewise, for the gents, Lederhosen (“leather pants”) are often worn with socks or Loferl (“calf warmers”), vests and jackets. Again, the quality, price and occasion can vary widely like the Dirndls, so if you would like to visit Oktoberfest in Tratchen, I would err on the side of better quality over the cheaper options only promoted for tourists. Certainly, guests can visit in plain clothes or decked to the nines, however you prefer. Likewise, regardless of whether you are in plain clothes or traditional costume, feel free to add a hat, braids, flower crown or flowers in your hair for extra festivity! If you are interested in more key tips for dressing in traditional costume, you can find those out HERE. 

My Favorite Parts Of Oktoberfest

The Opening Parade

One of my favorite parts of the Oktoberfest celebrations is the opening parade. Snaking between the main streets as it weaves from the historical center into Theresienwiese, this parade features brewery wagons pulled by decorated horses, marching bands, local clubs and many other groups dressed in traditional attire. Seeing the wagons, floats and apparel is amazing and overall, the atmosphere is extremely festive and quite family friendly. Be sure to get there early for a good view as this procession can draw quite a crowd! 

The Oide Wiesn

In recent years, the Oide Wiesn has become a staple for locals at the Oktoberfest and I can totally see why! Created in a nostalgic fashion, the Oide Wiesn features historic rides, stalls, and tents with Bavarian brass bands, dancing and other customs as the highlights. While admission to this portion of the fairgrounds is not free (about 4 euros for adults), the ride tickets once inside are much cheaper (great for families!) and in general, give a more classic feel to Oktoberfest. As the weather was perfect on the day we visited the Oide Wiesn, it was significantly more packed than I had anticipated and getting a table to enjoy lunch with a group on the weekend was more challenging than expected, however if you are looking for a festive, traditional way to experience Oktoberfest, the Oide Wiesen is the place to be. 

The Food

As I mentioned in the post regarding creating a traditional Oktoberfest Board to celebrate at home (which you can read HERE), the food at Oktoberfest is delicious! Hearty, traditional Bavarian cuisine can be found throughout the many stalls and tents and provides a wide range of goodies from the traditional Hendl and Spätzle to smoked fish on a stick and chocolate fruit skewers. The smell of all the food and the roasting candied nuts wafting through the Wiesn will make you hungry so be sure to bring your appetite to try the many options! 

Final Thoughts 

While Oktoberfest is much like a state fair with delicious local food and history woven in, experiencing it at least once can be a lot of fun! Before visiting, I honestly was a little skeptical from hearing the stories of crowded Ubahns, crazy tourists and overdrinking, but I found that the time of day you go and the activities involved (like the parade or Oide Wiesen) can make it really fun and enjoyable without too much craziness. Munich’s Oktoberfest definitely has a festive atmosphere and really is one of a kind, so if you are in the area when it is running, pop over for a day to check it out! I certainly have been pleasantly surprised and am glad to have experienced it! So, whether you have gone in the past or hope to go in the future, be sure to save this post and share it with someone you might want to visit with! 

Happy celebrating!

Chloe 

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