Revellers reach out for the first beer in the traditional one-liner "Masskrug" beer mugs at the opening day of the Munich Oktoberfest at the Theresienwiese in Munich, Sept. 22. The world's biggest beer festival runs until October 7.
Related story: Raise a glass (or beer mug) to the Oktoberfest tradition
Slideshow: Bottoms up at Oktoberfest!



I would drink a keg of beer also knowing that Merkel was in charge.
Hey! There are beverages involved, here!
Doesn't Oktoberfest mean October??? September 22 until October 7? What's wrong with this picture??
Source
I could have asked my best half, but they're watching a movie while i sit here and take a break from studies. :)
Thanks for clarifying the answer to this FAQ, Re@son...
Oktoberfest was originally for Bavarians (not Germans, who are a diferent people in both culture and attitude), and it was held in October, hence the name. But Oktoberfest in Munich is a huge celebration that swells the city from half a million inhabitants, to around 12 million during the festival.
If you have ever been in Munich during October you would realize that September is far warmer, drier and generally more pleasant altogether. This allows more people to attend, enjoy the finest beer in the world and the warm welcome of the locals in relative comfort.
Cheers!
I believe "ein Mass" holds one liter, and is not a one-liner.
Prost an alle!
I can't wait to get back to Germany.
Beer, hash and whore houses. One big party.
Skol!
Had a great time in Munich in the early seventies during this time of the month. The German's truly know how to party. Don't remember how many mugs of beer I had, but I remember the German's wouldn't allow me to ever buy a round.
Same here! It was a fun event and a beautiful city. I loved the time spent there and sure would like to go back. I have great memories of that country and the interesting people.
Am I wrong, or aren't these celebrations just a tad early? It is still September.
Just thought I would point out that there is a really cute guy with gorgeous chestnut hair in the photo. He should be the new RPG.
Oktoberfest in Munich runs for 16 days & always ends on the 1st Sunday in October (except for 2006 as noted above) and yes the Germans know how to party. I was there in '77 and definitely want to go back. 1 day hope to make it.
They drink beer Warm over there... you may have it better over here.
No, they don't. If you go to the Hofbrauhaus or any of the local beer gardens you will be served your lager cold, just like it was brewed to be served. In the winter, due to the cold weather, many prefer their beer warmed and some restaurants actually have beer warming devices at the table. Ales on the other hand, are fermented warm and are meant to be enjoyed warm, but never Lagers or Pilsners.
You will not find a better beer in the world, though most American drinkers find the strength, abundance of hops and rich flavor to be a bit much for taste buds accustomed to yellow water.
If you can find a local source try the Hofbrauhaus Oktoberfest, which is brewed and bottled in Munich for export. While not quite the same as having a fresh draft in Munich, it will show you why Bavarians are justifiably regarded as the finest beer brewers in the world. If you can't find it, the Czech "Pilsner Urquell" is widely available and is absolutely world class.