Munich Therese Meadow - Octoberfest München Theresienwiese - Oktoberfest

Preparations start months in advance with the erection of huge marquees and other facilities. Year after year a host of attractions - a fun-for-all show and great variety of pleasure booths, traditional swings and roundabouts, hurtling roller-coasters and breathtaking fairground rides, prove totally irresistible to foreigners and locals alike, irrespective of age-group. Swept along by the crowd they try their hand at everything, collecting in the process all manner of odd "trophies" and other curiosities. Amidst much merriment they have their fortunes told and enjoy the lights, the bustle and the noise. There is no opportunity to go hungry and even less to go thirsty, with traditional Hendl and Steckerlfische (grilled chicken and fish) in plentiful supply. Every year sees the establishment of a new Hendl-eating record!

One million broiled chickens and pork sausages, 60 roasted oxen and tons of fish, würsts and ham hocks are served during this 16-day event.

The Octoberfest also includes an agricultural fair every three years, an annual costume and markmen's parade, a folk festival and other amusements. But the events are usually a secondary reason for coming to this festival and pale in comparison to the number of food stalls.