Explore the Bavarian culture in Munich
The biggest party in the world, the Oktoberfest which means “October party” takes place every year in Munich, on the first Saturday of the second half of September, at noon sharp, and ends on the first Sunday in October. For 2016, the Oktoberfest therefore runs from September 17 to October 2.
It takes place on a 42 hectare site, nicknamed, the Prairie de Thérèse. But you will probably not see any cow named Thérèse, but rather many places to eat and a huge funfair (the largest in the world).
A whole story and a few figures
Don't make a fuss if you haven't met Thérèse, the young and beautiful Gretchen either, but know that it is thanks to her that this Oktoberfest has existed for more than 2 centuries.
In fact, the festivities given in 1810, after the wedding of Louis I of Bavaria and Princess Thérèse of Saxe-Hildburghausen, marked the beginning of the Oktoberfest tradition.
200 years later, Oktoberfest can be proud of having some digital scores worthy of the record books! In 16 days, more than 6,4 million visitors come to the Munich meadow. Served as an accompaniment to 540 chickens, 000 sausages in 280-liter mugs, these are 6 million liters of beer which are sold each year in over 30 themed tents and numerous beer gardens.
The Oktoberfest 2016 program
If you can be free on September 17 and go to Munich for a weekend, don't miss the opening parade. Led by a young girl disguised as a monk (symbol of the city), accompanied by the mayor of the city and noisy brass bands, the procession includes teams pulling chariots loaded with barrels in the colors of their respective breweries.
Other vehicles carry the waiters and brewers hired for the duration of the party. This is the announcement “O'zapft is!”(The Barrel is drilled), in Bavarian dialect, pronounced by the Mayor at 12 o'clock sharp, which marks the official opening of Oktoberfest.
The Oktoberfest in family
If you come with your family, take advantage of the 2 “family days”(September 20 and 27) because all the modern attractions and old rides are cheaper there. Another must-see event is the traditional pistol salute given in front of the Bavarian monument on the last day of the festival (October 2).
Tradition and fun guaranteed
The must of the must is to attend the many Bavarian music concerts wearing your most beautiful Lederhosen. Understand, a traditional costume made of short panties with a bridge stopping above the knees. For once you can walk around in panties with suspenders without fear of making them go up (the suspenders!), Take advantage of it.
Your “gretchen” will wear a Dirndl sexy or classic. A tip: remember that the knot of her apron is made on the right side, otherwise we would risk believing her to be celibate and borrowing her from you. Scrolling alone among more than 8000 cheeky guys could make you weird!
But rest assured, you may find the object of your love at lost and found objects, where, each year, more than 4500 items await their owner.
Oktoberfest can be expected!
Yes indeed, two weeks of festivities require a minimum of organization. Accommodation first. It is strongly recommended to book your hotel room well in advance given the popular enthusiasm for the event.
Transport level, the car is strongly discouraged both traffic is disrupted in Munich at that time. Of course, public transport takes over and is organized accordingly. It is quite possible to consider participating in the Oktoberfest as a family, as has been said. There are plenty of family activities planned on site and the Munich area is definitely worth a look between two Mass.
For more information:
Prepare for your trip with our Munich travel guide
Munich City Hall website
Warning, Alcohol abuse is dangerous for health. To consume with moderation
