Munich’s Oktoberfest honours Bavarian cuisine, culture, and friendship; this year I had the remarkable chance to personally enjoy these things. Celebrated for its beer tents, traditional attire, and energetic music, Oktoberfest presents a special fusion of celebration and history. Growing up in Punjab witnessing harvest celebrations like Baisakhi, I discovered familiar strands of community, happiness, and thanks woven into the Bavarian celebrations.
Moving over the festival grounds felt as though one were entering another planet. While the happy sounds of polka bands set the tone for the day, the air smelt like freshly made pretzels and sizzling bratwursts. People from all around the world clinking their beer cups, swapping stories, and dancing together as though there were no boundaries of language or culture—the spirit was contagious.
Attending Oktoberfest let me consider how universal the essence of celebrations is really. Oktoberfest’s beer tents and music unite people around bonfires, singing and celebration of the harvest, much as Lohri in Punjab does. Though customs vary, the essence of these holidays—unity and delight—is the same.
Sitting with a group of total strangers who soon bonded over common experiences was one of my favourite events. It brought back memories of my time in Toulouse, where, among students from more than 50 nations, we frequently established connections over shared meals and cultural exchanges.
Oktoberfest is a family-friendly celebration with vibrant parades, funfair attractions, and booths offering handcrafted goods, even if it is mostly connected with alcohol. Seeing kids dash about in traditional Bavarian attire gave the celebration a touching element. The festival seems to really welcome everyone, from all walks of life and age.
Oktoberfest let me realise how important it is to really live in the present. Whether it’s the laughter in a beer tent or the group shout during a procession, these shared events add richness to life. Celebrations like Oktoberfest serve as a reminder that despite our differences, the basic pleasures of life—good food, good company, and a shared celebration—bind us all.
Recipe: Brezel (Pretzel)
Ingredients:
1. Flour
2. Yeast
3. Sugar
4. Baking soda
5. Salt
Method:
Knead dough, shape into pretzels, boil in baking soda water, bake until golden brown.