Tasting Tradition: Oktoberfest

Imagine yourself transported to the bustling streets of Munich, where the air is thick with the scent of roasted almonds and the sounds of tubas and the clinking of thick glass steins, and the laughter of thousands echoes throughout the streets and massive beer tents.

You're in the wonderful world of Oktoberfest!

It's a beloved German tradition that has taken the hearts and palates of people all around the globe.

The Royal Beginning

Oktoberfest was originally a 5-day wedding celebration of one Crown Price Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen (who almost married Napoleon a year earlier!) on October 12th, 1810.

That kicked off over 200 years of repeats.

In later years they decided to start it in September to take advantage of the warmer days, which was all the better for the beer and food tents & the purveyors!

The... Food!

Amongst the generous variety of food and drink that Oktoberfest is famous for, here are some unique stand-outs; a regional take on Apple Strudel, and the very appropriate German Wedding soup.

The Beginnings, The Food, and now the Going!

As you dive into the history and tantalizing flavors of Oktoberfest, you'll find yourself wanting to be a part of this amazing celebration, to discover the joy of traditional German culture, and to feel a sense of belonging to a global community that embraces the richness of its heritage.

So if you're planning to hit the road, here are the 5 most popular places to celebrate Oktoberfest!

1. Munich, Germany

The original. And the largest Oktoberfest. It attracts around 6 million visitors annually and features incredibly massive beer tents, the delicious and traditional Bavarian food, and carnival rides! And where yelling "Prost!" in the middle of the street won't have people looking strangely at you at all.

2. Kitchener-Waterloo, Canada

Some say it's the largest Oktoberfest outside of Germany, drawing up to 700,000 visitors. It's known for its large Thanksgiving Day parade and unique mix of German traditions with Canadian culture. "Prost, eh!?"

3. Blumenau, Brazil

It's the largest Oktoberfest in South America, and attracts over 600,000 visitors. It takes place in a city founded by German immigrants and features a distinctive blend of German and Brazilian tastes and traditions.

4. Cincinnati, USA

Held as the largest Oktoberfest in the United States, with around 500,000 attendees, it's famous for its "Running of the Wieners" dachshund race and the "World's Largest Chicken Dance."

5. Brisbane, Australia

And finally, the largest Oktoberfest celebration in the Asia-Pacific region can be found here. It features a unique Australian twist on German traditions, including games like the "Bavarian Strongman" competition!

Or have your own Oktoberfest!

If you're looking to celebrate Oktoberfest much closer to home, or in fact, at home, it's easier than you may think and is a great way to bring that Munich magic to your backyard.

Read all about that here! :)

Whether you go, or you stay, it's about celebrating tradition

Now whether you're a seasoned Oktoberfest enthusiast or a newcomer to this beloved tradition, the opportunity to bring a taste of the royal Bavarian experience into your own home is always within reach.

So if you're going all out and donning your dirndl or lederhosen, pouring a frosty stein of Oktoberfest beer, and indulging in the tastes of the 'Fest, or... simply raising a glass to present or faraway company, doing so can make you feel a little bit closer to the timeless traditions of this amazing celebration.

Remember to keep an eye out for the next "Little Nibbles" in your inbox for more Oma-approved tips & bits... especially next week's (and if you're not getting those, sign up today!)

Cheers, :)

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Hi, I'm Oma Gerhild! As a food writer and cookbook author, I'm always looking to find ways to pass on my German heritage using local ingredients. Quick and easy. That's my goal. Wunderbar food. That's the result.

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