Oktoberfest

Why the Oktoberfest in Munich is special
The annual Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany has been called "the world's largest beer party". It attracts some seven million people (including loads of travelers) a year during a 16 day period from late September to early October.

Oktoberfest tips and insights
Revelry is the main attraction
People come to have fun with friends and family in the enormous beer tents.

The revelers sit tightly at long communal tables to drink liter-size mugs of strong Bavarian beer and eat copious quantities of grilled chicken and pork sausages while a lederhosen-attired Bavarian brass oompah-pah band entertains on a stage raised above the crowd (see photo).

Often, the rich and poor, the famous and obscure spontaneously lock arms and sway in comradeship while singing and toasting. It's a loud and noisy affair that's not to be missed.

Waitresses
The hefty, ethnic-clad waitresses have become an essential part of the scene, especially when they barrel down the aisles carrying up to ten large overfilled beer steins at a time. If you're in their path, it's wise to step aside.

Colossal Oktoberfest tents
There are roughly a dozen big tents (all run by breweries). Their individual seating capacities range from about 5,000 to 10,000.

Scarce seating on weekends
Although the tents can collectively accommodate nearly 100,000 people, seating can become scarce, particularly on weekends.

Origin
The Oktoberfest began in 1810 as a royal wedding celebration. The public was invited and beer flowed freely. The local citizenry thought it was a great idea and decided to turn it into a yearly happening. It has now been around for almost two centuries.

Location in Germany