By Kevin Wilkerson, PubClub.com Oktoberfest Blogger
Ein Prost!
Oktoberfest in Munich is beer-drinkers heaven. Huge bierhalls – often referred to as tents – are the size of airplane hangers, and they are full of people singing and hoisting big beers day and night during the 16-18 day celebration. It has been going on more or less continuously since 1810. It’s as big a part of German culture as the polka. It is tradition for locals to go each and every day (or night). They call it d’Wiesn after the fairgrounds.
This is a party on a worldwide scale with beer lovers and others going to it from all over the globe. Two types of beer are served at Oktoberfest, a traditional Märzen lager and a paler Festbier. By the way, attending the event and getting into the beer tents is free. You do not need tickets to go to Oktoberfest in Munich. You may experience lines at some bierhalls but it’s all free. The song “Ein Prosit der Gemütlichkeit” heard frequently at the beer tents (along with John Denver’s “Country Roads” for some reason) means “a toast to cheer and good times.”
Opening Day is special. There is a parade in the morning and at Noon, a 12-gun salute is followed by the tapping of the first keg by the Mayor of Munich with the proclamation “O’zapft is!” Or, “it’s tapped!”
But before you land in Munich for Oktoberfest, land here first. Below are links to must-read articles on what it’s like and what to expect from someone who has been there.
• Our overall Oktoberfest guide has all the basics: this year’s dates, the scene, the hours, the best times to go the location, the beer tents and also a key fact that many don’t know about getting a beer at Oktoberfest.
• Here are “your welcome” tips & information on the Munich Oktoberfest beer tents.
• One spot stands out above all others. Learn why the Hofbrauhaus at Oktoberfest is so popular.
• How much does a beer cost at Oktoberfest? Click the link for the answer!
• Read why Munich Oktoberfest is the ultimate beer drinker’s heaven
• Munich Oktoberfest is among the world’s top party events.
• Tag along with our roving party animal, the Bartender at Oktoberfest!
• Read about other places to drink beer and party with this guide to bars & nighlife in Munich.
• Learn about fun things to do in Munich aside from Oktoberfest.
PubClub.com covers nightlife, bars, festivals and party events around the world. I have been to – and survived – Munich Oktoberfest.