There’s plenty to look forward to during the fall, such as fall foliage, pumpkin patches, and apple picking. However, for many people, fall means the return of Oktoberfest. While a trip to Munich might be on the top of many people’s lists, you don’t have to go too far to enjoy the festivities, dine on traditional German foods, and drink your favorite beer. Grico’s South is having our very own Oktoberfest on October 27th with five amazing courses!
Most people don’t need a reason to gather with friends to enjoy a few beers, but have you ever wondered how this Bavarian tradition got started? Find out why we celebrate!
When Did Oktoberfest Begin?
This favorite tradition began in 1810 following the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria, who would later become King Ludwig I, to Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen on October 12th. Citizens in Munich were invited to celebrate the occasion in fields called Theresienwiese, or Therese’s Meadows in English, named after the Crown Princess.
While the first festival in 1810 was to celebrate the marriage of the future king, Oktoberfest became an annual occurrence. The following year, an agricultural fair was added, which still takes place every four years. In 1819, Munich officially made Oktoberfest an annual event. However, the original Oktoberfest looked different than the one we know today. At the first celebration, crowds gathered to watch horse races, a tradition that continued until the 1960s. Oktoberfest continued to grow and evolve over the years and has only been canceled 24 times in the 212 years since the first celebration. The festivities also now take place in late September until early October due to the better weather.
What is an Oktoberfest Beer?
The rules for what beers can be served at Oktoberfest are much stricter than you might assume. Beer must adhere to the Reinheitsgebot, a purity order that limits the ingredients of beer made in Germany, and it must be made in Munich. Only six breweries can produce beer for the official event. Traditional Oktoberfest beer is Märzen, which is much stronger and darker than other beers, while paler beers are more commonly served today. Beers served in the United States are typically closer to traditional Oktoberfest beers, not necessarily those that are actually popular at the festival today.
What Food is Served?
While beer is an important part of Oktoberfest, you can’t forget the food. The celebration is filled with vendors serving traditional Bavarian foods, some of which you can enjoy at Grico’ South. We’ll be serving five courses of foods that you can find at the real thing. During our event, you can try the following:
- German-style soft pretzel topped with black lava sea salt and served with cheesy beer mustard.
- Pilsner-braised red cabbage and grilled bratwurst with whole grain apple cream sauce.
- Savory pork schnitzel and spaetzle with rich wild mushroom gravy.
- Lemon and thyme roasted chicken with jacket potatoes, smoked carrot puree, and pan au jus.
- Autumn spiced honey crisp apple strudel and cinnamon ice cream.
Join Us for Oktoberfest at Grico’s South!
You don’t have to travel far to enjoy the many tastes of Oktoberfest. Join us at Grico’s South on October 27th to experience our very own Oktoberfest event!
Reservations are required, make yours today!