Tap That Keg, Spank That Spiggot!
Munich Oktoberfest, the original, and largest in the world, takes place this year from September 21 to October 4. First held in 1810, it celebrated the marriage between Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. Six million visitors from around the world will gather to celebrate in downtown Munich on the Theresienwiese (Therese’s meadow), named in honour of the bride. It covers 34.5 ha and is accessible by its own subway station. At 12 noon sharp on the first day of Oktoberfest, the Lord Mayor of Munich will tap the first keg of beer with as few strokes as possible. The record for the least number is held by His Worship, Christian Ude, at two strokes in 2005. In 1951, Lord Mayor Thomas Wimmer required 19 attempts. "Ozapft is!” is declared (it’s tapped). Only then are the tents, some holding upwards of 10,000 revelers, allowed to start serving beer and food.
We don’t have to go to Munich to enjoy the very same beer that’s served there. The iconic Hofbräu Oktoberfestbier is now available for a limited time at your local LCBO retail store. On your way home, also stop by your local supermarket and pick up your favourite sausages, Bavarian mustard, sauerkraut and buns and you will be able to celebrate your own Oktoberfest. Prosit (cheers)! Oh, and don’t forget to download Bavarian Oktoberfest music to round out the experience.