Fun Facts About Oktoberfest

Hi, Leslie Harris here, and Oktoberfests are in full swing all over the western suburbs. Downers Grove just had their Oktoberfest Friday and yesterday, and Glendale heights has an Oktoberfest that is running through the 26th at Camera Park.

Have you ever wondered just how Oktoberfest got started?

The first Oktoberfest was to celebrate the marriage between Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig, and Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The residents of Munich were invited to eat and drink as much as they wanted for five full days, as well as listen to live music and watch parades, with a horse race as the finale. Everyone had such a good time that they decided to turn it into a yearly event.

Within a few years, they added carnival booths, bowling alleys and swings, as well as wine and beer.

So why is it in September? It was moved up because September days are longer and warmer than October days, which means that people will stay longer and spend more money!

So go out, listen to some good music and food, maybe have a beer, and enjoy Oktoberfest!