10 Amazing Facts About OKTOBERFEST You Must Know│Beginner German

Summary

Discover 10 fascinating facts about Oktoberfest, the iconic beer festival in Munich, Germany. From its origins in 1810 as a royal wedding celebration to the unique Bavarian traditions, learn about the strong Wiesn beer, record-breaking mug-carrying feats, and the ceremonial keg tapping by the Mayor of Munich. Find out why Oktoberfest is mostly held in September, why locals call it ‘Wiesn,’ and how the Dirndl fashion reveals relationship status. Whether you’re a fan of beer or Bavarian culture, this overview offers a fun and informative look at Oktoberfest's rich history and traditions.

Takeaways

• 😀 Oktoberfest has been celebrated annually since 1810, originally as part of a royal wedding celebration between Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese.
• 😀 Despite its name, Oktoberfest takes place mostly in September, starting in late September and ending on the first Sunday of October.
• 😀 Locals in Bavaria often refer to Oktoberfest as 'Wiesn,' after the Theresienwiese field where the event is held.
• 😀 Oktoberfest has featured Guinness World Records, such as the feat of carrying 24 full beer steins over 40 meters (weighing 57 kg).
• 😀 The Mayor of Munich traditionally taps the first beer barrel to officially start the Oktoberfest celebrations.
• 😀 Since 1882, Oktoberfest beer has been served in glass steins, not stone mugs.
• 😀 The special Oktoberfest beer (Wiesnbier) has an alcohol content between 5.8% and 6.4%, higher than regular beer, and is served in a 1-liter glass mug (Mass).
• 😀 Women wear traditional Dirndl dresses, and the position of the bow indicates their relationship status: left for single, right for in a relationship, and back for widowhood.
• 😀 Dancing on tables is prohibited at Oktoberfest, though dancing on benches is allowed.
• 😀 Oktoberfest is a celebration of Bavarian culture, with beer, food, music, and festivities enjoyed by millions of people every year.

Q & A

When and where did the first Oktoberfest take place?

The first Oktoberfest took place in 1810 in Munich, Germany, to celebrate the wedding of Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese.

Was Oktoberfest always a beer festival?

No, Oktoberfest was originally a celebration of the royal wedding, including events like horse races. It only later became known for its beer.

Why is Oktoberfest primarily held in September instead of October?

Although it’s called Oktoberfest, the festival begins in late September and runs until the first Sunday in October, lasting about two weeks.

What is the local name for Oktoberfest in Munich?

In Munich, Oktoberfest is often referred to as 'Wiesn,' named after the Theresienwiese, the large field where the festival is held.

What is the Guinness World Record for the most beer steins carried at Oktoberfest?

The record for the most beer steins carried is 24 full steins over a 40-meter distance, weighing a total of 57 kilograms.

What significant ceremonial event marks the official start of Oktoberfest?

The mayor of Munich taps the first keg of beer, officially marking the start of Oktoberfest.

When did Oktoberfest switch from stone mugs to glass steins?

Since 1882, glass steins have been used at Oktoberfest instead of stone mugs.

What is 'Wiesnbier' and how does it differ from regular beer?

Wiesnbier is the beer served at Oktoberfest. It has a higher alcohol content, typically between 5.8% and 6.4%, compared to regular beer.

What is the significance of the ribbon placement on a Dirndl?

The ribbon placement on a Dirndl indicates a woman's relationship status: on the left means she's single, on the right means she's in a relationship, and tied at the back means she's widowed.

Can people dance on tables at Oktoberfest?

No, dancing on tables is not allowed at Oktoberfest. However, people are allowed to stand on benches and celebrate.