Germany at a Glance

42 Oktoberfest The Oktoberfest is the world's largest folk festival attracting about 6 million people from all over the world every year. The 16-day festival is an important part of Bavarian culture, having been held since 1810. It was originally intended as a horse race in honour of the marriage of crownprince Ludwig with Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildenburg- hausen in the 19 th century. The festival is held in an area named the Theresienwiese, often called Wiesn for short, located near Munich's centre. Large quantities of Oktoberfest Beer are consumed in the many festival tents of Munich breweries with approximately 100,000 seats. The beer must be brewed within the city limits of Munich. Visitors may also enjoy a wide variety of traditional food such as Hendl (chicken), Würstl (sausages), along with Brezn (Pretzel), Knödel (potato dumplings), along with such Bavarian delicacies as Obatzda (a spiced cheese-butter spread) and Weisswurst (veal sausage). • www.oktoberfest.eu Hofbräuhaus Munich's most popular attraction is probably the world-renowned beer hall Hofbräuhaus , which has existed since 1644. It is the origin of the own brewed beer. In the Hofbräuhaus you can experience the Bavarian way of life: The typical Bavarian hospitality, the traditional cuisine like veal sausages with sweet mustard and, of course, the art of brewing. In the centre of the public beer hall is a music podium, where musicians can play every day. It is within walking distance from the centrally located Marienplatz . A visit to the Hofbräuhaus is one of the must-see attractions for those who want to experience the truly Bavarian atmosphere. • www.hofbraeuhaus.de 7 8