Oktoberfest - German

Hello! I am Oktoberfest, a world-famous folk festival from Germany. My story began a long, long time ago, not as a festival, but as a very special public party. It all started with a royal wedding on October 12th, 1810. The celebration was for Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria, who was getting married to Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. To share their happiness, they invited all the citizens of the city of Munich to join the fun. The party was held on a large, open field, a meadow where everyone could gather and celebrate the happy couple.

That first party was so much fun that the people of Munich decided they should have one every single year. My yearly celebration started to grow and change. At first, there were exciting horse races for people to watch. Over time, I became much larger than just a race. People began adding agricultural shows. These were events where farmers could display their proudest farm animals and the best crops they had grown. Soon after, even more fun was added. Carousels that spin round and round, tall swings that fly through the air, and other funfair rides became a big part of what makes me special.

My traditions have grown over the years, and now there are special ways to mark my opening days. I begin with a grand parade. In this parade, the hosts of the big festival tents and the local breweries ride through the streets on beautiful, decorated wagons pulled by strong horses. To officially start all the fun, the Mayor of Munich does something very important: he taps the first barrel of beer. My first Sunday also has a very special event. Another big parade takes place, and many people who march in it show off traditional Bavarian clothing. This special clothing is called Tracht, and it includes many colorful and detailed outfits.

Today, millions of people from all over the world come to visit me in Munich, Germany, each year. You might think my name means I only happen in October, but I have changed a little. I now start in the middle of September. This is so people can enjoy me when the weather is warmer and sunnier. My celebration lasts for about two weeks, ending on the first Sunday in October. During my festivities, people listen to traditional Bavarian music played by live bands. They eat delicious foods like giant soft pretzels and tasty sausages. They laugh and scream on the funfair rides, and many people dress up in special outfits like Dirndls and Lederhosen to honor the culture of Bavaria.