Why is Oktoberfest in September?
The answer goes back to 1810 during the dark days of beer drinking before refridgeration (sic).
In those days in Germany beer would never be brewed in the summer months. The batches would never turn out good.
The last batches were usually made in March. These last batches would have higher alcohol content to take advantage of alcohol as a preservative.
Traditionally there would be a big fest starting on the last Saturday in September till the First Sunday in October. The purpose was to drink up the old stocks of beer to make room for the new brew that would be make after harvest. The tradition goes back to the 15th and 16th Centuries.
The first official Oktoberfest was held in 1810. Crown Prince Ludwig threw a big party to celebrate his wedding to Princess Therese on October 12, 1810. The party was open to all. Everyone liked it so much they kept having the party every year.
So now how shall I celebrate Oktoberfest on September 18th?
We'll make a pretzel.
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