Oktoberfest 2015 will be held this year from September 14 up to October 4. Munich, Germany is the host city for the ‘October feast’ or as the locals simply calls it — Wiesn. The biggest festival in the world draws almost 7 million visitors yearly, and is a wonderful showcase of Bavarian and German heritage.
We’ve come across some great deals for Oktoberfest on Expedia and to get the lips wet and get you excited, here are some unmissable things to do during the festival. Simply put, it needs to be on any travel bucket list.
1. The Beer Tents. The major reason visitors descend upon the city at this time of year. During Oktoberfest, 14 beer tents will proudly serve the best beer and culinary fare that can be found anywhere. Each beer tent features its own distinctive personality and flair. Some tents appeal to the younger crowd (generally the larger, more populous tents), while some tents are smaller, quieter, and a bit more intimate which more often attract to the older crowd. Join hundreds, perhaps thousands, of people singing, dancing, and enjoying outstanding ‘bier’ and food 7 days a week here.
2. See the Oktoberfest Costume and Riflemen’s Parade. Sunday, Sept. 20. Lasting 2-2.5 hours, 8000 performers will make their way along the 7 km route through the city. This exciting processional features marching bands, riflemen, and thoroughbred horses, floats that display Bavarian and German traditions, historic carriages, and varied successions of costume groups from the region. Decorated drays of the Munich breweries are popular in the parade, as are cows and oxen that tromp along the ribboned, tree lined parade route. On the first Sunday of Oktoberfest, it’s truly a fun, festive way to kick off the festival.
3. Go to the Amusement Park. This is a very popular attraction, especially with families. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the miners train, bumper cars, carousels, the mirror labyrinth, and the roller coaster that features 5 vertical loops. A visit at night is highly recommended, as visitors can enjoy the entire familiar carnival atmosphere in a sea of colorful, brilliant lights.
4. Take in Open-Air Oktoberfest Music. Sunday, Sept. 27. This massive big band concert features some 400 musicians from all throughout Bavaria and Germany, and is an Oktoberfest favorite that experienced festival goers say shouldn’t be missed. The concert takes place on the steps of the Bavaria statue.
5. Take a Gray Line Munich sightseeing tour. While in Munich, take this opportunity to experience a bit more of the local flavor and extraordinary scenery here. There are city tours in Munich, and day excursions in Bavaria and into Austria, with experienced and professional tour guides providing insightful information, and answering any questions. Some tours include going to the Neuschwanstein Castle in the beautiful Bavarian Alps.
