Oktoberfest is an annual festival that originated Oct. 12, 1810, in Munich, Germany. It began with the celebration of the marriage of King Louis I and Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. Oktoberfest is a Bavarian celebration in Munich, meaning most of central and northern Germany do not celebrate it. Other than beer drinking, many fun activities occur during Oktoberfest. People of all ages are welcome to come to Oktoberfest to enjoy entertainment, including games, amusement rides, live music, dancing, and parades. 

After King Ludwig married, he invited the whole city to attend the celebration with a large feast and a horse race. According to Britannica, “The festival concluded five days later with a horse race held in an open area that came to be called Theresienwiese (Therese’s green). The following year, the race was combined with a state agricultural fair.” 

Many people and tourists from around the world celebrate Oktoberfest. Families and individuals celebrate this festival in distinct ways. A Briar Woods student says, “I’ve celebrated by decorating lebkuchen (gingerbread hearts). Some of my family in Germany wear traditional German clothing and go to parades.”

Oktoberfest holds some of the best food and traditions. Even though the horse races have ended, there are activities such as making soft pretzels. Popular foods include pork schnitzel, spaetzle, and German potato salad. A student at Briar Woods says, “My favorite thing about Oktoberfest is Bretzel and Weisswurst.”