Munich Oktoberfest 2013
Traditional and highly modern at the same time - that is this year's Oktoberfest from 6. September to 21. October
For many, it is not only the largest but also the most beautiful fun fair in the world: The Munich Oktoberfest, or as Munich locals call it „Die Wiesn“ (The Meadow - named after the site where the Oktoberfest takes place, Theresienwiese). And even though it is celebrated for its 180. time it is a very up-to-date event, ecologically as well as technically. The Oktoberfest has even been awarded prices for its ecological concept which involves waste reduction, water recycling and the use of 'green'-current. Some food stands also offer vegetarian food or meat and sausage according to animal welfare standards.
Families and kids will find special offers so that an Oktoberfest visit will be better affordable for them. The two Tuesdays, 24. September and 1. October, will be 'Family Days', i.e. that riding fares will be reduced between 12pm and 6pm. Moreover, there is the so called 'Mittagswiesn' which means that some food stalls and fun rides have special offers from Monday through Friday in the time between 10am and 3pm. Posters announcing 'Mittagswiesn' prices show you which enterprises participate in this deal.
For 'grown ups' saving money is not that easy - at least not if you plan to have a tasty Oktoberfest beer. The prices vary form year to year, that is to say: they are rising continuously. This year, prices range from 9,40 Euro to 9,85 Euro, depending on the tent. As far as food is concerned, there will be some new stands making the choice of culinary treats even more varied. So, for example, „Fisch-Bäda“ and „Flammlachs-Stand“ will offer fish and „Burschter's Wurstbraterei“ will have sausages of all kinds.
Slowly but surely the „Oide Wiesn“ (Old/Historical Oktoberfest) is becoming an institution. The Historical Oktoberfest is a quieter part of the fair which is mainly dedicated to carnival rides and other fair attractions from olden times and as typical for Bavarian tradition. This popular special event area which is situated in the southern part of the fair grounds will be bigger than before and will have some new attractions, like bumper cars from the 1950s, a ferris wheel and a switchback ride from the 1920s. Fares are only 1,- Euro per ride. Entrance to the Oide Wiesn costs 3,- Euro and this year you do not have to pay twice if you want to leave and reenter this area.
But let's see what news the main event has to offer. There will be a world premiere on this year's Oktoberfest, the world's highest transportable freefall tower called „Sky Fall“. The owner will not reveal more than that it will go up to 70 meters height and will drop people from there so that they will experience a real free fall! That is certainly not meant for people with weak nerves - neither are the other new fun rides at the Oktoberfest, like the „Cobra“. This short ride guarantees and immediate adrenaline rush. Shortly after it starts, it already lets people stand on their heads. Thanks to special seat boosters even kids can use this rollercoaster, given they are taller than 1,29 m and curageous. The adventure ride „Odyssee“ takes its visitors back to Greek antiquity. „Odyssee“ makes use of state-of-the-art technology as well as of live-actors. The fun-house „Pirates Adventure“ also takes you to another time and scene. It is meant for everybody but if children find it too scary they can leave it and get their money back.
Overview of events at the 180. Munich Oktoberfest
Sa, 09.21.13 |
10.45am |
Parade of Oktoberfest Landlords and Breweries |
|
12:00pm |
Munich's lord mayor Ude tapps the first keg - official start of the 180. Oktoberfest in the Schottenhamel tent |
So, 09.22.13 |
10:00am |
Riflemen's Parade |
Di, 09.24.13 |
12:00pm to 6:00pm |
First Family Day |
Do, 09.26.13 |
10:00am |
Traditional Oktoberfest church service at Hippodrom tent |
So, 09.29.13 |
11:00am |
Concert of the Oktoberfest bands in front of the Bavaria statue |
Di, 10.01.13 |
12:00pm to 6:00pm |
Second Family Day |
So, 10.06.13 |
12:00pm |
Canon salutes in front of Bavaria statue |
|
midnight |
End of Oktoberfest 2013 |
For more information and a Wiesn video see our other Oktoberfest article.