Oktoberfest season is here!  This year is the 25th Annual Breckenridge Oktoberfest which will take place over 3 days, September 6-8. There will be plenty of opportunities to drink beer, eat brats, schnitzels, and pretzels, and dance along to the famous chicken dance!

History Of The Oktoberfest

The first Oktoberfest was held in celebration of the marriage of Prince Ludwig and Theresa of Saxe-Hildeburghausen in Bavaria on October 12, 1810. In those times, the event lasted for one week but today it has evolved into a three week fest.

Despite the festival being called Oktoberfest, it actually starts in September. The reason is due to the weather, which is much more reliable to be nice in September. The event takes place on the Theresienwiese, a world famous meadow in Munich.

The festivities don’t kick off until the Mayor shouts “o’zapft is!” which means it’s tapped! The first mug of beer is traditionally offered to the President of Bavaria.

Here are some statistics about the Oktoberfest in Munich – telling you about the amount of beer, bratwurst, schnitzel and other treats that are consumed during an average Oktoberfest.

WHAT TO WEAR AT OKTOBERFEST

Men traditionally wear Lederhosn with either a white or checkered shirt, thigh high socks, and leather shoes. 

Women traditionally wear Dirndls of all different colors and patterns. A Dirndl is a corset-like dress, paired with a blouse underneath.

While the Breckenridge Oktoberfest is not quite as “grand” as the original Oktoberfest in Munich, it has still grown into quite an impressive event. It started out as a very small Oktoberfest, only taking up one block on Main Street. Now it is a 3 day event which takes over almost all of Main Street and is filled with music, dancing, big smiles, great food and of course, beer! Take a look at the statistics for the Breckenridge Oktoberfest consumption: Breckenridge Oktoberfest Statistics

Be sure to check out the entire event schedule, so that you can make plans while you are here!

• Make sure to bring a light sweater, sunscreen, good walking shoes, and be ready to have tons of fun!
• Also remember, the Okoberfest beer served is stronger than your normal Coors or Budweiser – so take it easy drinking at high altitude!
• And, in case your are not into all the crowds, here are some suggestions for some other things to do in Breckenridge during our gorgeous fall season.

Thinking about making it a weekend getaway? We have wonderful accommodations within walking distance from the event here at The Wedgewood Lodge. Hope to see you soon, Prost!