Ranging from mid-September to early October, the city of Munich in Germany hosts the largest folk festival across the globe. The festival is known as Octoberfest or Oktoberfest as the Germans know it. Its origins date back to the early 1800s when the local people celebrated the wedding of Saxe-Hildburghausen’s Princess Therese to the Bavarian King Ludwig I. The original event produced so many notable moments, that it was transformed into an annual event and has lasted several centuries. This article will provide information on the top things to see and do in Munich Germany for Octoberfest.
1. The Beer Tents
Potentially the most popular aspect of Octoberfest is the beer tents. However, what most people do not realize is that each of the beer tents in Munich offers their patrons more than just beer. Each of the tents offers plates of delicious food, including pork and potato salad that you can enjoy while drinking a local beer. Moreover, each tent has a specific feature making it particularly inviting. For example, the Shutzen-Festzelt offers rustic features where you can watch the Bavarian Sport Shooting Association’s sport shooting competitions. The Marstall is a beer tent presenting local wooden horse carvings on a carousel stage, and the Augustiner-Festhalle pours beers from traditional wooden barrels.
2. The Octoberfest Parades
If you want to begin Octoberfest with a bang, then it is recommended that you attend the parades on the first weekend of the festival. The Saturday features landlords and breweries marching through the streets of Munich on traditional carriages and floats. The Sunday provides viewers with not only stylish floats, but also people wearing a wide variety of vintage costumes from across Germany. The music from the traditional marching bands, along with the dancing music, will make this event a highly memorable one.
3. The Oide Wiesn
If you head down to the southern section of Munich’s festival area, then you will discover history in real life. The Oide Wiesn allows you to wear vintage costumes while attempting all of the 21st century rides. If you continue to the Museum Tent in this section, you can learn the history of Octoberfest; as well as visit beer tends and hydrate after the long walk. Both of the beer tents offer food and drinks, but there is also traditional dancing to be had with local musical performances. This is definitely the area you want to be if you are searching for a calmer vibe in Munich’s Octoberfest.
4. Marienplatz
Marienplatz is one of the historic squares in Munich where you can become mesmerized by all the Gothic architecture of the city. If you are a fan of architecture and older buildings, then it is imperative that you visit St. Peterskirche or St. Peters Church. This building mixing the Gothic style with various other older architectural styles, and the altar was built by the iconic sculptor Erasmus Grasser. Be sure to head to the steeple if you want a breath-taking view of Munich, and definitely have your cameras out for photo opportunities.
As you can see, Octoberfest in Munich is more than merely beer tents and some dancing. By using the information above, you can discover which event is most suited to your preferences.