The beer is flowing and millions of people are descending on the Bavarian capital to celebrate the official opening of Oktoberfest. With the traditional cry of ‘O’zapft is’ – ‘It’s tapped’ – Mayor Dieter Reiter inserted the tap in the first keg at noon on Saturday, officially opening the 18-day festivities. Revelers decked out in traditional lederhosen and dirndl dresses trooped to Munich’s festival grounds Saturday morning, filling the dozens of traditional tents in anticipation of getting their first 1-liter (2-pint) mug of beer. Minutes before the first keg was tapped, to cheers from the crowd, Bavarian Gov. Markus Soeder asked festivalgoers if they were ready for Oktoberfest to begin. ‘I can only say one thing: This is the most beautiful, biggest, most important festival in the world,’ he said.
The Oktoberfest, now on its 188th edition, runs through to October 3 and typically draws about 6 million visitors every year. The event was skipped in 2020 and 2021 as authorities grappled with COVID-19, but returned in 2022. A 1-liter mug costs between 12.60 euros and 14.90 euros (£10.86 to £12.84) this year, an increase of around 6 per cent from last year.
The atmosphere at Oktoberfest is electric, with attendees immersing themselves in the traditional Bavarian culture. From young people in elaborate outfits to waitresses serving mugs of beer, the festival is a visual delight. There are parades, historical clothing, and even police officers patrolling the area with their dogs.
The festival grounds are a sight to behold, with marquees set up and visitors basking in the sunshine. Tables are filled with excited revellers enjoying their mugs of beer. German and Austrian singers Florian Silbereisen and Andreas Gabalier add to the excitement with their performances.
As the festival kicks off, the waiters and staff members work diligently to ensure everything is in order. From setting up the beer kegs to cleaning tables, they play a crucial role in making Oktoberfest a memorable experience. Vendors hang up gingerbread hearts for sale, adding to the festive ambiance.
Overall, Oktoberfest is a celebration like no other. It brings together people from around the world to enjoy Bavarian traditions, delicious beer, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned attendee, the festival never fails to leave a lasting impression. So raise your mug and cheers to the start of Oktoberfest 2023!
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