A Royal Wedding Gives Rise To A Cultural Tradition

On October 12, 1810 Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. To celebrate the royal union the couple invited Munich’s residents to attend the wedding celebration. The festivities were held on fields near the city gates, which have since been called the Theresienwiese or “Theresa’s fields” in honor of the royal Princess.

The celebration concluded with the attendance of the royal family at a horse race and feast for all Bavarians. The subsequent year the horse races were repeated and this gave rise to what is know today as the Oktoberfest.

*Munich, Germany, still holds the biggest and most famous Oktoberfest.*

The Oktoberfest Around the World

This German tradition is now celebrated all around the world. From Argentina, to Brazil to Canada to Russia to Zambia, and yes even to Oakland Park, Florida, people celebrate Oktoberfest while adding their own local flavor.

Oakland Park’s Oktoberfest

This year the City of Oakland Park’s Oktoberfest sponsored by Funky Buddha Brewery will be held from Friday October 4th to Sunday October 6th. The festivities are for all, far and wide, to enjoy a little bit of Germany in our local setting.

The festivities start at 6:00pm on Friday October 4th with a big Wilkommen and Sepp Diepolder master yodler, zither and accordion player on stage. The opening ceremonies are at 7pm and will be followed by Alpine Express on stage at 7:30pm.

Food and, of course, lots of beer from Funky Buddha Brewery will be available for attendees to enjoy.

Click here for a complete schedule of events for Friday October 4.

*Locals are ready to celebrate again! | Photo: South Florida Finds*

The festival will continue on Saturday starting at 1pm. Attendees can enjoy an Apple Strudel Eating Contest, Central Bark’s Dachshund Dash, Beer Barrel Roll, and Beer Stein Race.

There will also be a Kids Corner packed with activities for kids throughout the weekend.

Click here for a complete schedule of events for Saturday October 5.