Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is the largest folk festival in the world. It takes place every year in Munich, Germany. Even though its name includes October, it starts in late September. The festival lasts about 16 to 18 days. Millions of people visit to enjoy food, music, and rides.

How It Began

Oktoberfest started in 1810 as a wedding party. A prince in Germany got married and invited all the people of Munich. Everyone had such a good time that they decided to do it again the next year. Now it has happened for over 200 years. It has grown into a giant festival.

A busy, cheerful scene from the big Oktoberfest party in Germany.
A busy, cheerful scene from the big Oktoberfest party in Germany. (Heribert Pohl --- Thanks for half a million clicks! from Germering bei München, Bayern / Wikimedia Commons)

Food and Fun

People eat German foods like pretzels, sausages, and roasted chicken. Many wear traditional clothing called lederhosen and dirndls. Big tents hold bands that play lively music. There are Ferris wheels, carousels, and other fair rides for families. Kids especially love the Tuesdays when the rides cost less.

Fun Facts

  • Oktoberfest pretzels can be as big as a dinner plate.
  • Over six million people visit Oktoberfest in Munich each year.
  • Many cities around the world, including in the United States, have their own Oktoberfest celebrations.

Did You Know?

The opening of Oktoberfest is marked by the mayor of Munich. He taps the first barrel and shouts, O'zapft is, which means it is tapped!