Grab a Stein and Unwind at Oktoberfest 2009

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The leaves are changing, the air is getting crisper and it’s time for you to take another fabulous vacation. “Where to?” you ask? Why, to this years Oktoberfest of course!

A Little Bit of History

Munich is the third largest city in Germany and each year hosts the largest fair in the world also known as Oktoberfest. Traditionally drawing in over six million visitors each year, this year’s events will commence on September 19th and run until October 4th. The masses have spoken and they’re telling you to come on over to Germany for some good old Bavarian fun!

Dating back almost two centuries, Oktoberfest was the original celebration of the marriage between Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. Originally a six day wedding event that included parades and a horse race, the present day Oktoberfest still takes place on "Theresienwiese" ("Theresa's meadow" – named after the bride) and begins in September and ends seventeen days later on the first Sunday in October.

Let’s Get Started

Each year exactly at noon the Lord Mayor of Munich, currently Christian Ude, begins the festivities by tapping the first keg of beer inside the oldest and most important tent at the festival – the Schottenhammel Tent. After his exclamation of "O'zapft is!" – meaning that the first tapping was successful – the other tents can begin tapping their kegs as well and Oktoberfest is officially open for business!

Admission into Oktoberfest is free and there are fourteen main beer tents to choose from. The Hofbräuhaus Tent is the most famous among international visitors because of its traditional Bavarian bands and the many guests dressed up in traditional costumes. The Hippodrom Tent is the hippest tent with the youngest crowds and often visiting local celebrities. Each tent has its own unique menu, featured beer, and band selection ranging from popular music to folk and polka.

The Beer

One may think that going to Oktoberfest means only one thing – lots of beer! Well, you’re right! Or at least that’s a good place to start. Also known as “Liquid Gold” Oktoberfest beer is darker and stronger than the average beer. Only six breweries in Munich are permitted to serve beer at the festival and they are Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, and Spaten. At least six million liters of beer will be drunk at this year’s festival alone! Beer will be sold daily from 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM on weekdays, and from 9:00 AM to 10:30 PM on weekends and holidays.

Why is the beer so good? Since the sixteenth century Bavarian Purity Requirements have been in place to insure the finest quality of beer. Bavarian beer is the best in the world only using water, hops, and barley in its brewing process. Stock up on some “Biermarkers” or Beer Tokens to use in the tents throughout the day.

The price for a liter of beer this year is 8.30 €. There is also a large selection of meals and snacks available inside the tents as well. Pork knuckle, roasted chicken, sausage with sauerkraut and the famous baked pretzel are some of the favorites.

It’s important to note that you will not be served unless you have a seat and while the tents seat thousands it is wise to make prior reservations or you might get frustrated. Another tip to assure getting a seat is to arrive early. Preferably you should be there before 2:30 PM on a weekday and before 10:30 AM on a weekend. Reservations are taken by each tent individually and contact information for each tent can be found at www.oktoberfest.de/en/.

There’s More To Do

As you’re ordering another round, you make think to yourself that a nice Oktoberfest souvenir would be a great way to remember this historic celebration. Have no fear, because Oktoberfest steins were made especially for you! Each year a new logo is created for the glass and many returning patrons bring their past steins back with them to show their Oktoberfest support. Look at www.wiesn.com for more souvenir ideas including the famous Oktoberfest gingerbread cookie.

Believe it or not, some people do not go to Oktoberfest just for the beer! If you’re looking to get your heart rate up then a ride on one of the many Oktoberfest amusement rides might be for you. From the tame Ferris wheel to the thrillers like “The Tower” or the “Flip Fly”, there is a carnival ride for everyone. The fun park is especially popular on Tuesdays which are also known as “Family Days” and discounted prices are offered.

Oktoberfest 2010

Oktoberfest 2009 is right around the corner, but of course there is always next year. In fact, in 2010 Oktoberfest will celebrate its 200th year anniversary. The dates for next year are September 18th to October 3rd.


Written by: Robyn
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