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Raising a stein to Oktoberfest

06th October 2017

With Oktoberfest celebrations taking place throughout Europe, and as cities from Madrid to Stockholm to London become invaded by Lederhosen, Trachten shirts and Dirndl dresses, we take a look at these growing festivities.

Origins of Oktoberfest

The Munich Oktoberfest is one of the world’s most famous events and largest fair, so much so, that come October its tricky to avoid any mentions of it whatsoever! With such hype you wouldn’t believe that the mighty Oktoberfest had such humble beginnings.

The original Oktoberfest in October 1810 was held in honour of the wedding between the Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. To celebrate, the local people of Munich were invited to eat, drink and be merry, and enjoy parades, shooting displays and a horse-race across a packed five full days. They all had such a fantastic time, they decided to stage the race and accompanying indulgences every year. There has been an occasional pause in proceedings, but this year marked the 184^th Oktoberfest.

What makes Oktoberfest?

The Grand Parade

The opening of the festival is marked with a colourful parade of carriages and floats in a variety of costumes, which winds through the streets of Munich.

Tremendous Tents

Expect vast tents all with colourful façades, long wooden tables and benches with some on more than one level and some that can hold up to 10,000 people.

Bavarian Style

Normally the first hint of an Oktoberfest party is the sight of colourful Bavarian outfits. For the ladies this is usually Dirndl which is a traditional Bavarian dress with full skirt, apron and bodice and gentleman, you can't go wrong with iconic Lederhosen, or Trachten shirts.

Beer Necessities

The heart of Oktoberfest is undoubtedly beer. During The Munich Oktoberfest, the only beer served comes from Munich breweries and there are no half measures with beer only sold in one-litre glasses.

Flavourful Foods

Needless to say, there is no shortage of meat at Oktoberfest. From Bratwust, Currywurst and Weisswursts to roasted ox, chicken and the local pork specialty – Schweinshaxe to name a few. Have a sweet tooth? Sugar is a plenty with waffles, pretzels and apple strudels commonly consumed.

Although The Munich Oktoberfest has now come to a close, you can still find the spirit of Oktoberfest at Goodwood with the annual Kennels Oktoberfest party, now taking place over two fantastic evenings on 13^th and 14^th October.

Tuck into traditional Bavarian-style food to soak up the steins of Goodwood lager, before our Oompah band brings to life the sounds of Oktoberfest playing light-hearted sing-along. Prepare for folk dances, yodelling and a whole lot of toe-tapping and thigh slapping!