The season of Oktoberfest is right around the corner. Many of you must be looking forward to it, as it is the world's largest beer festival.

In this blog post, we will explore Oktoberfest and delve into how the festival is celebrated in Germany. We will also introduce some Japanese snacks that pair perfectly with beer.

Enjoy the festivities of Oktoberfest, with a variety of beers and Japanese snacks as the perfect accompaniments!

What is Oktoberfest? 

The Oktoberfest, held annually for about two weeks from mid-September, is an event to enjoy beer, traditional German cuisine and music.
 
Oktoberfest has a long history, dating back to 1810. It began as a celebration by the citizens of Munich to commemorate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. Although there were years when it was canceled due to wars and other reasons, the festival has continued for more than 200 years.　

Over time, Oktoberfest started being held not just in Germany but also in various parts of the world, including Japan.

How is Oktoberfest Celebrated in Germany?

Boasting a history of over 200 years, how is Oktoberfest celebrated in its home country of Germany?

The Oktoberfest officially commences in front of Munich's City Hall in Bavaria, with the mayor offering a toast. In addition to beer and food, the event also offers attractions reminiscent of an amusement park, making it a fun annual event for both children and adults.

Now, let's explore how Oktoberfest is celebrated in its authentic German setting.

1. Enjoying Beer and Sausages

At the Oktoberfest venue, local breweries set up tents. You can savor a variety of beers, each showcasing the unique characteristics of these breweries.
 
Also, don't miss the sausages that pair perfectly with beer. You can enjoy a diverse selection, from white sausages and smoked sausages to herb-infused sausages made from finely-ground meat.

2. Wearing Traditional Costume

At Oktoberfest, many people enjoy the festivities dressed in traditional costumes.

Women wear colorful dresses known as Dirndl. Those who tie the apron bows on the left are single, while those on the right are married. Children tie them in the front. However, the position of the bow isn't strictly adhered to nowadays.
 
Men also don the Lederhose, the Bavarian traditional costume of leather trousers and a hat.

3. Enjoying Attractions

Oktoberfest is more than just dressing up in traditional costumes and enjoying beer and food. The venue is filled with a variety of exciting attractions.

Even children who are too young to drink beer can enjoy various attractions at the amusement park-like venue.

The Ferris wheel is one of the most famous attractions, allowing passengers to enjoy the panoramic view of the Oktoberfest venue from a great height.

Other attractions include a roller coaster and a swing, which will delight children! Adults may feel queasy if they ride the roller coaster or other rides after drinking beer.

Experiencing Oktoberfest in Japan

Similar to the Oktoberfest in Germany, the culture of enjoying beer and having a good time with friends has gradually made its way into Japan.

The first Oktoberfest in Japan was held in 2003. This year, marking its 20th anniversary, it will be celebrated in large parks and event venues throughout Japan. Along with beer directly imported from Germany, you’ll be able to enjoy hearty dishes full of flavor.

The main attraction of Oktoberfests being held in different locations, is the opportunity to savor craft beer from local breweries and relish local cuisine, all in addition to the German beer.

Japanese Snacks that Complement Beer

In Japan, snacks known as “otsumami" are prepared to enjoy with beer. These “otsumami" are essential as they complement the flavor of the beer and help slow down alcohol absorption.
Now, we will introduce our delicious Japanese snacks perfect for Oktoberfest and pair well with beer.

1. Shrimp Senbei (Japanese Taste)

Made with carefully selected ingredients to achieve the finest flavor, this shrimp senbei boasts top quality. This popular assortment of shrimp flavors is sure to enhance the taste of beer.

2. Spicy Garlic Oil Japanese Chips

Garlic-flavored and spicy, these chips are the perfect finger food. With their crispy texture and fiery deliciousness, they will become addictive once you try them.

3. Takoyaki Chips

These takoyaki-flavored chips offer a delightful blend of sweetness and savoriness, with a touch of aonori (dried green laver) and pickled ginger. The Osaka specialty “takoyaki” is a favorite amongst children and also a perfect companion with beer!

Both children and adults alike will love these delicious chips, replicating the flavor of “Takoyaki." Be sure to try them as a beer snack at Oktoberfest.

4. Hokkaido Flavored Seafood Rice Crackers MIX “Elegance and Colorful”

These seafood-flavored rice crackers offer a variety of tastes to enjoy. They are individually packaged in small portions, making them a perfect snack for children. Adults can enjoy them as finger food with their beer.

Summary

In this blog post, we covered everything you need to know about the upcoming Oktoberfest. We have also introduced some Japanese snacks that pair perfectly with beer.

Originating in Germany, this world's largest beer festival is now a grand annual event enjoyed across the world. For this year's Oktoberfest, we invite you to enjoy Zelico's delicious snacks while savoring an array of beer choices.