Oktoberfest – Lederhosen and Beer Steins
The great celebration of German culture was kicked off early this year for some people because Oktoberfest actually was meant to correspond with the beginning of Fall. Moorpark, California is one such community celebrating Oktoberfest according to tradition. But, most communities will throw together their celebrations for 18 days in October the way they are used to doing.
Donning the lederhosen, eating some brats, and hoisting beer steins are the traditions of Oktoberfest. But, there are people who don’t know anything about it. To me, my first Oktoberfest reminded me of a trip I made as a kid to Disney World. I remember hearing the music and watching the dancers as we walked by one part of the theme park. But, a few years later I would eventually go to a real Oktoberfest and there was so much more to it than Disney’s version.
Lederhosen – Shorts that extend to the knees and are commonly worn with suspenders. Credited mainly to Bavarian people, Lederhosen went out of style at one time because people believed they were peasant clothing and not appropriate for city dwelling folk. But, they were brought back by clubs who meant to preserve their cultural heritage.
Brats – Bratwurst served like a hotdog, only topped with onions, peppers and a whole plethora of other toppings.
Beer Hoist – A game that involves beer, mugs and lifting with one arm. You can start a collection with the beer steins you get at Oktoberfest if you go year after year.
Oktoberfest is over by now and it seems throughout the world, wherever it is celebrated, it went down without much of a hitch. No deaths were reported. Very little violence. It’s just a fun time. And the reason I go…
Well, other than meeting new people and having a good time…I love the St. Pauli’s Girl dress that many of the beautiful ladies at Oktoberfest are wearing.
Tags: Bavarian, beer hoist, brats, bratwurst, German, hoist a beer, ideas, lederhosen, oktoberfest, oktoberfest costumes, party, stein hoist