“O’Zapft is!” The History of Oktoberfest

Blog

19 September 2022

By Sarah Angela Almaden

Unsplash: Marlene Haiberger

Many people say that Bavaria's beautiful capital city of Munich is a city with a big heart. But what else makes Munich so special? Maybe it’s the Neuschwanstein Castle, which served as the inspiration for the iconic Disney castle. Whatever it is that you are seeking, there is something in Munich just for you—München mag dich (Munich loves you).

If you’re interested in trying out German beer, Munich is known for its breweries and wheat beer (Weissbier). The most popular beer is Helles, but for something stronger, consider Starkbier (6% to 9% alcohol). Prost!

Munich is also home to Oktoberfest, the world’s largest Volksfest. It lasts between 16 to 18 days, occupies over 85 acres, and attracts more than **6 million visitors** annually.

History

On October 12, 1810, Crown Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese. The people of Munich were invited to celebrate on fields called Theresienwiese (Theresa’s Fields), which locals shortened to Wies’n. Today, over **1 million gallons** of beer are consumed during the festival.

Trachten und Schützenzug

The iconic parade features the Münchner Kindl ("Munich child"), decorated carriages from breweries, and participants from across Europe in traditional costumes.

Beer Barrel Tapping

At noon on the first day, the mayor taps the first barrel and yells “O’zapft is!” (It is tapped!). Only then can the beer begin to flow.

Rosa Wiesn

Also known as "Gay Sunday," this takes place in the Bräurosl tent. It is now the second-largest LGBTQ+ event in Europe, originating from a 1970s gathering of the Munich Lion's Club.