Beertopia

Day 193

The alarm went off at 8 and we were quick to get ready. We had to find a spot to watch the parade from quickly. I'm glad that we got there early as well. Today was the first day of Oktoberfest.

About 150 years ago the kings son (I think) was getting married so he threw a big party and invited everyone. It was so much fun that they decided to do it every year. The parade was pretty good, I took loads of pictures and some videos. Each of the different breweries had horse drawn wagons with beer barrels on them. I think they were bringing the beer. These were followed by a cart full of people drinking beer. At 10 am that was pretty adventurous.

There were several marching bands. The cutest was a group of kids dressed up as toy soldiers. I just wonder if kids should really be involved in a festival about drinking.

Once the parade was over we headed to the tents and somehow managed to get a seat next to some French guys. We were drinking Spaten. The whole thing was just nuts. Right from the beginning (about noon) people were acting crazy. The only people who seemed to not be enjoying themselves were two older Asian woman who split a beer between themselves. I was amazed at how many people were wearing lederhosen and traditional dresses. Not only were Germans dressing up but I heard plenty of other accents wearing costumes as well.

Karen and I spent most of our time talking to the French guys, Daimeon and Bertram, as well as some Italians at the other side of the table. When we were done with beer for the evening we headed back to the hotel, both tired, but excited to have been part of Oktoberfest.