Fascinating Oktoberfest Facts You Probably Didn’t Know
A Royal Celebration Turned Tradition
Oktoberfest began in 1810 with the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The royal family invited the citizens of Munich to join in the celebration, which featured horse races, food, and beer. The event was such a success that it became an annual tradition and grew into the world’s most famous beer festival.
Why It’s Held in September, Not October
Despite its name, most of Oktoberfest takes place in September. The change was made to take advantage of the warmer weather and longer days. The festival usually begins in mid-September and ends on the first Sunday of October, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the best of Bavaria’s late summer atmosphere.
The Beer: Strong, Special, and Bavarian
The beer served at Oktoberfest is a unique brew called Märzen. It is darker, maltier, and stronger than a standard lager, typically containing around 6 percent alcohol. Only six traditional Munich breweries are allowed to serve beer at the event: Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, and Spaten. These breweries follow strict quality standards that maintain the authenticity of the festival.
The World’s Biggest Beer Festival
Oktoberfest attracts more than six million visitors from around the world each year. Guests consume over seven million liters of beer and countless servings of roasted chicken, sausages, and pretzels. Beyond the food and drink, visitors enjoy lively music, cultural parades, and a welcoming festive spirit that defines Bavarian hospitality.
Fun and Unexpected Fact
Each year, the Oktoberfest lost and found office collects thousands of items including phones, wallets, and even wedding rings. Security is well organized, and drinks are not allowed outside the tents after 9 p.m. Despite the massive crowds, the festival remains one of the most efficiently managed public events in the world.
Bonus Fact for You
Did you know that wine lovers have their own Oktoberfest section?
It’s called the “Weinzelt” (Wine Tent) — where visitors can enjoy fine German wines and sparkling champagnes instead of beer.
