What is it?

Oktoberfest is the world's largest Volksfest, featuring a beer festival and a traveling carnival. It is held annually in Munich, Bavaria, running from mid- or late-September to around the first Sunday in October, with more than six million international and national visitors attending the event.

Why?

A long time ago. The Crown Prince Ludwig (1786–1868), later King Ludwig I (reign: 1825–1848), married Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen on 12 October 1810. The citizens of Munich were invited to attend the festivities held on the fields in front of the city gates to celebrate the royal event. Everyone had so much fun they decided to continue the event each year since. Hence Oktoberfest!!!

When?

After Many wars, Politics and other pauses (as with anything the local government eventually took over), the dates changed to what they are now. To figure out the formula for future Oktoberfest dates is easy: The fest always finishes on the first Sunday in October (unless the October 3rd German Unity holiday falls on the succeeding Monday or Tuesday then the fest wraps up on either day) and begins two weeks prior on the Saturday. For example, the dates for Oktoberfest 2023: September 16—October 3 (Tuesday); 2024: September 21—October 6 (Sunday); 2025: September 20—October 5 (Sunday).

But?

We have made it our own. With most Americans knowing none of what you just read. Here at Crystal Beer Parlor, we start it the last week of September and celebrate til the last full week of October. It was just easier that way.