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Volksfest: From Carnival Rides to Beer [Bavarian FUN guide]

What Is A Volksfest?
A Volksfest is a traditional German festival that celebrates community, music, friendship and culture.

It's a time to come together with family and friends, enjoy traditional food and drink, and participate in lively entertainment.

Volksfests are carnivals through and through, but they're the best types of carnivals, and certainly the most fun types of carnivals that you'll find anywhere on the planet.

What Does Volksfest Mean?
The word Volksfest literally translates to "people's festival" in German. Volks = Folks, yes this is a FolksFest! Makes perfect sense now, doesn't it?

These festivals typically take place throughout Germany in late summer or early autumn with many lasting for several days and beyond.

What Can I Expect to Experience at a Volksfest?
Fun for a start! But amongst other things you'll find Volksfests packed full of the following:

1. Food and drink vendors peddling bratwursts, roasted meats, sweets, candies, schnapps, sugar coated nuts and oh, so much more.
2. Large drinking tents usually sponsored by breweries or wine companies such as Lowenbrau.
3. Sideshow attractions such as games of chance. mirror mazes and fun houses.
4. Thrilling adventure rides such as roller coasters.
5. Bands and music everywhere.
6. Traditional (and local) outfits such as the Dirndl and Lederhosen.
7. Parades showcasing local community, marching bands, horse drawn beer wagons, dancing troupes and loads more.

Volksfests in Germany
While there are many Volksfests throughout Germany, the largest and most famous is the Munich Oktoberfest. This iconic festival has been around since 1810 and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Bavaria.

This (mostly) 16-day festival attracts several million visitors each year and is the ultimate celebration of Bavarian culture.

At the Munich Oktoberfest, you'll find everything from carnival rides to beer tents, traditional Bavarian clothing, and delicious food. The festival grounds are massive, spanning over 40 hectares, and offer something for everyone.

Stuttgart sports the second largest Volksfest in Germany.

The Cannstatter Volksfest is also a hugely popular event that attracts approximately four million visitors each year, making it a highlight on the calendar for many. The Cannstatter runs alongside the Oktoberfest from late September and into early October.

However, if you're looking for a more low-key, family-friendly experience then fear not as there are many smaller Volksfests throughout Germany that offer similar atmosphere and entertainment. But in a much smaller setting and on a smaller scale.

Volksfests In Munich
Of course, no discussion of Volksfests would be complete without mentioning the Munich Oktoberfest, but the wonderful; Munich Spring Festival - the Frühlingsfest, is also well worth a visit and is held in April each year.

Just north of Munich Airport is the town Freising. Here the Freisinger Volksfest is held each year and in 2023 the festivities return to the Luitpoldanlage from September 1st to 10th for the 91st anniversary carnival.

Thrilling Carnival Rides
One of the highlights of any Volksfest is the carnival rides.

From roller coasters to Ferris wheels, there's no shortage of thrills at these festivals. For the younger visitors, there are plenty of kiddie rides and games to keep them entertained.

The rides are not just for kids, though. Adults can also get in on the action and take a spin on the wilder rides.

Some of the rides are actually famous in their own right, so famous that they actually travel to other huge carnivals throughout Europe such. The Winter Wonderland in London for example, hosts the Munich Olympia Looping ride each year.

Just be sure to indulge in the traditional Bavarian food and beer after your ride to settle your stomach!

Traditional Bavarian Carnival Food
Speaking of food, no visit to a Volksfest is complete without indulging in the traditional Bavarian cuisine. From sausages to pretzels, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the most popular dishes is the Schweinshaxe, a roasted pork knuckle that's crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. It's often served with sauerkraut and potatoes and pairs perfectly with a cold beer.

Beer and Wine Tents
Of course, we can't forget about the beer tents. These massive structures can hold thousands of people and offer a lively atmosphere and endless entertainment.

Each tent has its own unique vibe, with live music and entertainment throughout the day and night. It's the perfect place to enjoy a cold beer and soak up the Bavarian culture.

Our Thoughts on the Volksfest Experience
Well in short, we LOVE them! So, if you're looking for a super fun experience for all ages, then look no further than attending a Volksfest, we highly recommend them to anyone.

From carnival rides to beer tents, there's something for all to enjoy at these traditional Bavarian festivals.

PP Travel are the specialists in Oktoberfest in Munich and have Hotel Packages and Table Reservations available every year and have been in operation since 1991.

Whether you're visiting the Munich Oktoberfest or a smaller Volksfest throughout Germany, you're sure to have a great time.

So, pack your bags, grab your lederhosen or dirndl, and get ready for a Bavarian adventure that you'll never forget!

#Oktoberfest #Volksfest #Dirndl #Lederhosen #Schweinshaxe

Posted: 04 March 2023 00:45:36 GMT by Shane
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