Oktoberfest

I can’t believe it’s October again. Another year passes by in the blink of an eye and already upon us another Oktoberfest. Having only recently returned from a river cruise I was a tad concerned that squeezing into the dirndl might require a bit of double strength underwear 😂

As it turned out all was well and I just needed a bit of help with the awkward side zip 👏👏 So along with my leather lederhosen clad husband, we climbed aboard the taxi to join our like minded friends and headed off towards the venue.

Being an early 2pm start we were in the queue, waiting to secure our favourite spot inside the venue, by 1.45. Bums on seats, the lads were queuing at the bar before the hoards descended. We could enjoy the atmosphere, catch up with friends and admire the gorgeous venue, whilst waiting for the entertainment to start.

The Raven Drummers got the party started. From the balcony high above the crowd, the sound of their energetic beats reverberating around the auditorium. Everyone on their feet enjoying the loud rhythmic beat. They were swiftly followed by a troop of belly dancers and a group dancing the Schuhplattler. This is a traditional Bavarian stomping, thigh, knee and shoe slapping folk dance. We may need to learn some steps if we intend to venture to Germany for Oktoberfest one year. Although if we drink too many grosse biere I don’t think we’ll remember the steps anyway.

Having already consumed ein grosser apfelwein (cider) and several large beers between us we were ready for the main event, the fabulous DDFK Oompah Band. Donning their lederhosen, their brass instruments belting out traditional Oktoberfest tunes, together with a Bavarian twist on hits such as Don’t stop me now. There was audience participation in the typical hand clapping, arm linking, standing and sitting dances. Definite participation in beer swilling and glass raising to the lyrics of Ein Prosit. Fabulous fun.

After two sets of exhausting dancing and toasting, we had a short interlude to get our breath back, refill our steins and grab a delicious bratwurst or two.

Suitably refuelled, the final session of the evening was performed by local band The Rockitmen. The dance floor was filled with beer fuelled revellers. Those who couldn’t find room on the dance floor just danced around their tables. Every inch of floor space was filled with happy, arm waving, boogying, lederhosen and dirndl clad revellers. Hilarious sight.