Oktoberfest Kicks Off in Munich
MUNICH (AP) — Munich’s iconic Oktoberfest commenced on Saturday, marking the start of its 191st year as the world’s largest folk festival. The city’s mayor, Dominik Krause, initiated the festivities by tapping the first keg of beer with just two strokes, proclaiming the traditional phrase “O’zapft is,” meaning “It’s been tapped.”
Festivities Begin
Thousands of revelers, clad in Bavarian dirndls and lederhosen, flocked to the beer tents at Munich’s Theresienwiese fairground early to secure prime seating. The atmosphere was lively with brass music, and visitors quickly immersed themselves in singing, dancing, and enjoying freshly tapped beer.
Delicacies on Offer
Alongside beer, traditional German fare such as pretzels, pork roast, and sausages enjoyed immense popularity.
Visitors and Security Measures
Over the event’s 16-day run, concluding on October 4, around 6 million visitors are anticipated, with many arriving from Munich, southern Germany, and globally. In response to last year’s temporary closure due to overcrowding, German authorities have heightened security this year. AI-powered cameras will monitor crowd sizes, and measures such as bans on knives, flying objects (including drones), and smoking marijuana have been implemented. Approximately 600 police officers, alongside Bavarian riot police and specialized investigators, are ensuring safety around the festival.
