German Women Harassed in Oktoberfest by 'Usual Suspects'
Oktoberfest, a Bavarian beer festival enjoyed in many nations, is a global phenomenon. However, many claim that Munich, the city where it originated, is the most enjoyable place to be. Munich's Department of Labor and economics runs the festival website, which states that the event draws over six million attendees annually.
I'm a non-Bavarian German who frequently travels to Munich and have picked up some tips on going to the event, which is just called the "Wiesn." Here's what I would advise.
What to Wear
Many people follow the traditional Bavarian clothing code, which calls for lederhosen for men and a dirndl for women. Unlike other places of the world, you won't data-face accusations of cultural appropriation here; in fact, people encourage tourists from other countries to dress in traditional garb.
These costumes range in price from low-cost wear-once costumes to vintage and custom garment rentals, so there is something for any budget. A few items to consider are: A single pair of leather pants is called a lederhose since the word "lederhosen" is plural. Despite what many tourists think, these are Bavarian-style clothes. They are not visible if you travel north unless it is Oktoberfest, of course.
Why is Oktoberfest celebrated in September?
October 1810 saw Munich host its first Octoberfest in honor of Crown prince Ludwig's union with Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The event expanded over the years to a 16-day event, albeit october rain frequently interfered with it. The event ended on the first sunday in october every year by 1905, when it was moved to late September.
I'm a non-Bavarian German who frequently travels to Munich and have picked up some tips on going to the event, which is just called the "Wiesn." Here's what I would advise.
What to Wear
Many people follow the traditional Bavarian clothing code, which calls for lederhosen for men and a dirndl for women. Unlike other places of the world, you won't data-face accusations of cultural appropriation here; in fact, people encourage tourists from other countries to dress in traditional garb.
These costumes range in price from low-cost wear-once costumes to vintage and custom garment rentals, so there is something for any budget. A few items to consider are: A single pair of leather pants is called a lederhose since the word "lederhosen" is plural. Despite what many tourists think, these are Bavarian-style clothes. They are not visible if you travel north unless it is Oktoberfest, of course.
Why is Oktoberfest celebrated in September?
October 1810 saw Munich host its first Octoberfest in honor of Crown prince Ludwig's union with Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The event expanded over the years to a 16-day event, albeit october rain frequently interfered with it. The event ended on the first sunday in october every year by 1905, when it was moved to late September.