Oktoberfest: A Marriage Celebration for Nearly Two-Hundred Years

Oktoberfest has become known as the largest fair in the world as every year it brings together nearly 6 million people in Munich Bavaria Germany. Intended to celebrate a historic marriage the celebration lasts 16-17 days depending on how the calendar year falls. Alcohol, beer mainly, plays a significant role in the festival, made heartily darker and of higher alcohol content when prepared for the festivities. Similarly, foods of the Bavarian culture such as sausage, chicken, cheese noodles and sauerkraut are served throughout the fairgrounds.

The unification of Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese from Saxe-Hildburghausen in holy matrimony on October 12th, 1810 sparked the tradition of the widely known Oktoberfest of today. Becoming annual event, it has rarely been cancelled; 24 times of cancellation exist today in its past of nearly 200 years. Main issues of cause for cancellation are related to war and disease.

In 1835, a parade was inducted into the common procedures prior to the festivities. Gatherings nearing 8000 people join in center of Munich on Maximilian Street for the annual Bavarian rich addition to the celebratory events of Oktoberfest.

About the Author:

Mrs. Party... Gail Leino takes a common sense approach to planning and organizing events, celebrations and holiday parties with unique ideas for birthday party supplies and fun free educational party games.