Oktoberfest
Travel Article Fall 2019
Trend Magazine Online™

Although the horse races were once the most popular (And oldest) event of Oktoberfest, they are no longer held these days. The Agricultural Shows, however, still occur every three years on the southern part of the festival grounds. Choices of amusements were limited until 1818 when the first carousel and two swings were added. Small beer stands, which grew rapidly in numbers, allowed visitors to quench their thirst until 1896 when they were replaced by beer tents and halls set up by entrepreneurial landlords with backing from the local breweries. The balance of the festival's site was occupied by a fun fair. The 1870's saw the range of carousels offered increase rapidly as the fairgrounds trade continued to expand and develop in Germany.

Oktoberfest today in Munich, Germany (Home of the 1972 Summer Olympics), is the largest festival in the world, with a characteristic 20th century international mix. Visitors of all ages can enjoy the excitement and spectacle of carousels, and roller coasters at the foot of the Bavaria Statue and adjacent to the expansive festival grounds. To boot they are treated to a program of events which includes the Grand Entry of the Oktoberfest Landlords and Breweries, Costume and Rifleman's Procession, and a concert including all the brass bands representing the "Wiesn." You will also have a chance to sample some of the best beers around the world,purchase unique Oktoberfest souvenirs (Including beer mugs), and check out the giant Ferris wheel which dominates the western fairgrounds. In its 200+ year history, this annual beer festival has only been interrupted briefly by wars and the cholera epidemics.

I plan to attend this festival one year and have placed it on my bucket list as I have heard many great things about it from guests on my QCT Charlotte Daily City Tour™ by Queen City Tours™ and Travel. If you plan to attend Oktoberfest it is not recommended that you travel by car. Munich's excellent public transportation (MVV) is highly advisable which includes subway trains and buses; or you can use the S-Bahn train network for weekend night transport. You also have your choice of a taxi company that makes you feel most comfortable. In terms of technology, you can access a FREE Munich City Guide online or app for iPhone and Android. The 186^th 2019 festival will take place from Saturday September 21, 2019, to Sunday October 6, 2019, visit the official Oktoberfest site to find out additional information on events, shopping, the official mug presentation, programme, tents, what you need to know; rides, transportation, costumes, parades, and concerts.

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