Oktoberfest 2024 in Hamburg

On October 17, 1810, the first celebration took place, which laid the foundation for today's Munich Oktoberfest. On the occasion of the wedding of Ludwig of Bavaria and the Princess of Hildburghausen, a large horse race was held on the Theresienwiese. This celebration sparked great enthusiasm among all involved, so that it was decided that the festival must be repeated. This time the organizer was the "Agricultural Association in Bavaria". Then the Wiesn took place year after year as a privately financed event until it was decided that such a festivity should be held every year without exception, which was organized from 1819 under the direction of the City of Munich. In 1850 there was another really solemn occasion when the statue of the "Bavaria" was unveiled at the Oktoberfest and part of the Hall of Fame was inaugurated. The first roast chicken was opened in 1881. Later on, beer was allowed to be sold on the Theresienwiese and the number of Oktoberfest visitors increased from year to year. With them, of course, the number of beer stalls increased, which over time grew into marquees with chapels. Due to the rush of the enthusiastic crowds, various showmen were added, who provided further amusement by setting up bowling alleys, climbing frames and dance floors. The next highlight was the invention of electric light. This great invention made possible the world-famous image of the "Oktoberfest by night" for the first time in 1880. From year to year, more attractions and food options were added that made the Oktoberfest the spectacle that we love so much today. Due to the often cool weather in October, Oktoberfest has started in September since 1872. The Oktoberfest always opens on a Saturday and the end of the festival is traditionally the first Sunday in October. The following rule has been in effect since 2000: If the first Sunday in October falls on October 1st or 2nd, the festival is extended to the Day of German Unity on October 3rd. The festival usually lasts 16 to 18 days.