How to Make the Best of Oktoberfest

Image: New York City, Oktoberfest - Depositphotos.com

History of Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a two-week long celebration that many would know for its music, festivals and drinking but, in factuality, its origins date back to October of 1810 and became famous because of the horse races that followed a few days after the commemoration. The event became a sensation among the people of Germany during its introduction when King Ludwig I and Queen Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen’s wedding party was so extravagant and exciting that the whole region of Bavaria, a state in Germany where the ceremony took place, was demanding the royals to repeat the happening every year as an anniversary for their marriage and for Germans to participate in the horse races. This is the reason Oktoberfest became a tradition.

Eventually over a few years’ time, horse races became less popular and the festivity turned into a fair of sorts where one can play games, ride carousels, and drink beer as well as eat foods such as pretzels and German sausage. This then became a tourist attraction for visitors to learn about the German state of Bavaria and the country overall.

Image: Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany - Found on Google

New York City’s experience with Oktoberfest

Due to the migration of Germans throughout the world in the past century or so, these immigrants brought with them the love for the tradition and invited others in their communities and neighboring ones to join in on the event. Although it was difficult to recreate the lavish horse races, Germans were able to make sure the tradition never faded by continuing the entertainment and joy that comes with celebrating the event with friends and family. They did this by setting up fairs in cities, especially in New York City where there is a large German American community even to this day, that include games from Germany and Germany’s famous beers and cuisine.

In addition, by NYC having the most German bars and restaurants in comparison to the rest of the U.S., this proves that the greatest place to have the best Oktoberfest experience out of Germany is in New York City. Taking this into consideration, it is easy for New Yorkers to find an Oktoberfest event near them in the month of October. By New Yorkers going out and celebrating Oktoberfest, they are supporting the German American community’s history and the local economy. Also, many Oktoberfest events help Charities by advocating to attendees to donate and support those in need.

Another known aspect that Germans do in celebration of Oktoberfest is dress in lederhosen which has now become a symbol of Germany as well as the event. In NYC, locals dress up in this traditional wear or anything that is appropriate and participate in all the fun the event has to offer.

Overall, the main purpose of the festivity is to have fun and create happy memories with loved ones and friends alike.

Credit to: Depositphotos.com, Google.