Dirndls and Lederhosen on display

Posted Sunday, October 07, 2007, 4:28 PM by Lonely Planet

We're part of the thronging crowd making its way to the Strasse to see Bavarian folk bands triumphantly marching on Oktoberfest.

Leading the way are colossal draught horses, decked out in glittering armor, dragging huge wagons full of kegs lovingly filled by the local breweries.

Behind them come the marching bands - immaculate, well rehearsed and freakishly happy. The traditional garb of both 'Mánner und Frauen' is a visual delight that's overwhelming. New boar's bristle 'feathers' sprout from atop medieval hunting caps, military outfits evoking everything from Huns to Napoleonic legions sport gleaming medals, the calliopes glint in the fierce sun and the legions carry their muskets proudly. Mustaches and beards tend toward the fantastical. There are miles of lace and velvet draping the women and the dirndls have been crafted with one thing in mind; or possibly two 'things'...



After two solid hours of passing legend and lore, the crowds follow the last band into the cacophonous midway with its huge beer halls, brain-piercing sounds and carousels that will leave your mind spinning. We headed into the Schottenhamel tent, arguably the prettiest, most gentile and well behaved, and found it literally jammed to the rafters, with an Oom-pah band suspended in mid-air, blaring out strident Bavarian Schlager (saccharine pop songs). After an hour of this music, you're ready to fire up the entire repertoire of Led Zeppelin; the only known 'cure'. Another day firmly in the can.

- David Peevers is keeping us updated on the business of beer at the 2007 Oktoberfest so stay tuned for his next post (if he manages to stay up straight).

Labels: Europe, Festivals and events

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