The History of Oktoberfest — From Royal Wedding to Global Festival

Related topics: Oktoberfest Munich, history of Oktoberfest, Oktoberfest pretzel, authentic German pretzels

Last week, Munich kicked off the world’s most famous beer and folk festival: Oktoberfest. Millions of visitors are already making their way to the Bavarian capital, drawn by the promise of lively beer tents, traditional music, hearty food, and the unmistakable atmosphere of togetherness that makes this event so special. But how did it all begin, and why does Oktoberfest still matter more than 200 years later?

The story of Oktoberfest started in October 1810, when Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria (later King Ludwig I) married Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. To celebrate the wedding, the city of Munich organized a grand festival on the fields just outside the city gates. There were horse races, music, dancing, and plenty of food and drink. The festival was such a success that the citizens asked to repeat it the following year — and so a tradition was born.

Why Is Oktoberfest in September?

Although the name says “Oktoberfest,” the festival now begins in September. The reason is simple: Munich’s September weather is milder and sunnier, making it easier for guests to enjoy long days of celebration in open-air beer gardens and tents. The event still runs into early October, keeping the name alive while offering the best of both months.

What Is the Purpose of Oktoberfest?

At its heart, Oktoberfest has always been about more than beer. It’s a celebration of Bavarian culture, community, and craftsmanship. The festival grounds are filled with traditional brass bands, folk dances, and locals dressed in lederhosen and dirndl. Only six Munich breweries are permitted to serve beer at the festival, each brewed according to strict Bavarian purity laws. And of course, the food is as central as the beer: roasted chicken, sausages, grilled fish, and the iconic giant pretzels known as Wiesnbrezn are staples that keep visitors coming back year after year.

How Has Oktoberfest Changed Over Time?

Over the centuries, Oktoberfest has grown and adapted. What began as a royal wedding celebration has turned into a global event. Each year, more than six million people travel to Munich for the festival.

What started as a single day has stretched into more than two weeks of festivities. Instead of just horse races and a local fair, today there are over 30 massive beer tents, countless food stalls, amusement rides, parades, and concerts. Modern touches have made their way into the event as well — vegetarian and vegan options are easier to find, alcohol-free beer is available, and family-friendly activities bring new generations into the tradition.

And while the heart of the celebration is still in Munich, Oktoberfest has spread worldwide. From Cincinnati to Sydney, versions of the festival are celebrated in cities across the globe, bringing Bavarian tradition to millions who may never set foot in Germany.

Why Are Pretzels So Important at Oktoberfest?

No Oktoberfest is complete without a giant pretzel (Wiesnbrezn). Crisp on the outside, soft and chewy on the inside, and sprinkled generously with salt, they are best enjoyed warm with cheese, or alongside a stein of beer. For many, biting into a fresh Oktoberfest pretzel is the taste of the festival itself.

Pretzels represent something bigger, too: the comfort of warm bread, the craft of traditional baking, and the joy of sharing food with friends.

Can You Celebrate Oktoberfest at Home?

Not everyone can hop on a plane to Bavaria. But here’s the good news: you can still enjoy the most authentic part of Oktoberfest — the pretzels — right at home.

At The Brot Box, we bring authentic German baking traditions straight to your kitchen. Our Oktoberfest Pretzels are crafted with the same care and tradition as the ones you’d find in Munich. From freezer to oven, they bake in just minutes, filling your kitchen with the same aroma that drifts through the festival tents.

So even if you can’t raise a stein under the bright lights of Bavaria, you can still bring a piece of Oktoberfest home. Share them with friends, pair them with your favorite meal, and celebrate in your own way. Because in the end, Oktoberfest isn’t only about being in Munich — it’s about enjoying good food, good company, and traditions that connect us all.