Oktoberfest is nigh!

It started as a horse race, and has turned into the largest Folk Festival in the world! Plus, BEER!

From the wise historians over at Britannica:

The festival originated on October 12, 1810, in celebration of the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria, who later became King Louis I, to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen (say THAT 10 times fast!).

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, and in 1818 booths serving food and drink were introduced. By the late 20th century the booths had developed into large beer halls made of plywood.

The mayor of Munich taps the first keg to open the festival.

The breweries are also represented in parades that feature beer wagons and floats along with people in folk costumes. Other entertainment includes games, amusement rides, music, and dancing.

Oktoberfest begins this Saturday, September 17, and ends on Saturday, October 1, 2022.

Can’t make it to Munich this year?? We’ve got some special Oktoberfest beers for you right here in Crested Butte! Come see us at Acme and we’ll get you some recommendations.