Celebrated in Munich since 1810, not annually but often, Oktoberfest was grand from the start, beginning as a wedding celebration for Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. Not one of those low-key weddings — there were horse races, music, and, of course, beer.
The races may have ceased, but the beer and music thrive. In Germany, and despite the name, it runs from mid-September to early October, drawing millions of visitors from across Europe and beyond. They travel for steins of Bavarian beer, fill up on pretzels, sausages, and roast chicken, and dance on the beer hall tables. Dirndls and lederhosen are a common sight.
