Journalism of Courage
This year marks the 185th Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany. Though the German fall festival initially originated in Germany, it is celebrated across many parts of the world, including United States. Lively music, delicious food and huge pints of beer are the main attractions of the fest. (Source: AP)
Munich’s mayor, Dieter Reiter, kicked off the festivities by tapping open the first beer keg with a traditional shout of “O zapft is!” (“It’s tapped” in English). (Source: AP)
Around 6 million visitors are expected at the festival grounds in Munich before the Oktoberfest ends on October 7. As in previous years, backpacks and large bags are banned for security reasons. (Source: AP)
People participate in the traditional costume and riflemen's parade at the second day of the 185th Oktoberfest beer festival in Munich, Germany. (Source: AP)
Some 600 police officers and hundreds of stewards will keep order at the fenced-off grounds over the 16 days of the event. (Source: AP)
Oktoberfest has its origins in a horse race that took place in 1810 to celebrate the wedding of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. (Source: AP)
The public festivities on the Theresienwiese open ground - named after the bride - became more elaborate as time went on, with stalls and amusement rises and it gradually turned into a folk festival. (Source: AP)
The world's largest beer festival will be held from Sept. 22 until October 7, 2018. oktoberfest
