Oktoberfest Activities
How did Oktoberfest start?
The original Oktoberfest in October 1810 was held in honor of the wedding between Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. For five full days, the burghers of Munich were invited to eat, drink and be merry, and enjoy parades involving kettle drums and music, shooting displays and a horse race around a meadow on the edge of town. Such a good time was had by all that it was decided to stage the race (and the accompanying indulgences) every year. There has been the occasional pause in proceedings (usually at times of war), but this year will mark the 185th time Oktoberfest is held.
Oktoberfest began in Munich, where this year it runs Sept. 22-Oct. 7. Here it starts much earlier and ends much later. In fact, one of the biggest celebrations, at Big Bear Lake, will bleed into November.
This month, you can enjoy a day at one of the celebrations of Oktoberfest 2018 in California. The state has the largest population claiming German heritage with over 5 million people. That’s more than 2 million more than Pennsylvania or Ohio, which rank numbers two and three on the list. So it should come as no surprise that there are a large number of places where you can celebrate this Fest in California. It doesn’t matter whether you are in Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles or San Diego, you are not far from a fabulous California Oktoberfest.
Every weekend, Southern Californians can pick the experience that suits them best. Some events lean heavily on German cuisine. Some are 21 and older, while others are family friendly. Some are in the mountains. Some are on the beach.
Most have polkas and American rock, sometimes played by the same band.
And for dog lovers, there are a lot of dachshund races, too.
Here are some highlights where you can celebrate Oktoberfest 2018: Oktoberfest in
California
Book your ride now this October with us!
