People never leave a chance to indulge themselves in celebrations that include food and drinks. And one such celebration is Oktoberfest when millions of people come together to share beer, pretzels and other assorted delicacies from Germany. Yes, you guessed it right. Oktoberfest is a Germany-originated festival which is now celebrated worldwide. Surprisingly, Oktoberfest in India is also a thing. But, the biggest question is what is the history of Oktoberfest and why Oktoberfest is celebrated? Read ahead to know the answer with more about what is Oktoberfest in Germany and the celebration of Oktoberfest In India.
What is Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest is an annual celebration held in Munich, Germany. It starts by the end week of September and lasts for approximately 16 days or till the first Sunday of October arrives. Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer-drinking festival. Close to six million people travel to Munich to participate in this festival and enjoy the German culture, food and of course beer.
The History of Oktoberfest
The original history of Oktoberfest in Germany is quite interesting. It is said that the festival was never meant to be this grand or even a festival. In the year 1810, King Ludwig I married Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen on the 12th of October.
The royal event even invited the citizens of Munich to celebrate in the fields at the gate of the city. It was accompanied by lots of food, drinks and horse races which lasted for several days. Next year, at the first-anniversary celebration, even more festivities and people were included. And thus, the traditional festival of Munich became a worldwide affair, now known as what is Oktoberfest.
Why Oktoberfest Is Celebrated?
Oktoberfest was initially celebrated to commemorate the wedding anniversary of a royal couple of Munich. But later on, it came to be known for its merriment and fun. The traditional dress-up, German bands, country-style snacks, food stalls and gallons of beer became the reason for the festival’s popularity in the current world, unlike 200 years ago.
People enjoy mingling with a crowd of similar likes and it has become a way to socialize, out of one’s everyday hustle. Also, a major highlight of why Oktoberfest is celebrated is because one can enjoy and celebrate the German culture.
Oktoberfest In Germany
Oktoberfest in Germany is commenced every year with a parade that sees the participation of the marksmen’s club, landlords and breweries, including the beer-tent waitresses. Several beer tents are set up, with a seating capacity of about 5000 each, to serve the Oktoberfestbier, simply, beer.
Apart from that, you can find people dressed in the traditional attire Lederhosen and enjoying German delicacies like pretzels, sauerkrauts and bratwurst.
Oktoberfest 2022
In 2022, Oktoberfest in Munich started on 17th September and ended on 3rd October. It lasted for 16 days this year. Oktoberfest of 2022 was held after a gap of two years, due to the unexpected situation of Covid. The opening of the festival is done with the traditional Wiesn keg tapping, followed by the parade of the Wiesnwirte.
Oktoberfest In India
While the world celebrates Oktoberfest, India isn’t behind in following the worldwide trend. If you cannot fly to Munich, you can surely enjoy Oktoberfest in India in cities like Delhi and Mumbai. Places like the Independence Brewing Company, JW Marriott Juhu and Gateway Brewing Corporations serve you a wide range of German cuisine along with special German beers.
In Delhi, Hyatt Regency, The Beer Cafe and TOAST’s Oktoberfest edition can give you the vibe of Munich’s Oktoberfest in India. Even in Bangalore, you can find Aurum Brew Works, High Ultra Lounge and Chime etc., to fulfil your Oktoberfest dream.
Also Read- Holi In Foreign – How The Festival Of Color Is Celebrated Worldwide
Conclusion
The reason why Oktoberfest is celebrated is quite interesting because a simple marriage ceremony grew up to be a festival that reaches people all around the world and brings them together. Oktoberfest has proven to be a good way in promoting German tradition awareness in the world. And we hope it keeps reaching new audiences, with the passage of time.
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