Highlights Archives
The Days of Beer and Sausages — Oktoberfest
Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen had one heck of a wedding party in Munich in October of 1810. For two weeks, Germans celebrated with horse races, food, music and plenty of seasonal beer. The people of Munich loved it so much that they turned it into an annual festival that is today celebrated around the world.
Here in Wisconsin, where German culture and beer go hand in hand, Oktoberfest is a time to celebrate our state heritage and have a good time while doing it. While many Wisconsin communities celebrate Oktoberfest, La Crosse is home to the largest festival in the state. It was even named as one of the ten best in the world by USA Today!
Many people wonder why it is called Oktoberfest when many of the events are held in September. Germany, like Wisconsin, has a cold climate and holding it earlier in the fall allows people to enjoy the outdoor beer gardens just a little bit longer. As the state's largest ethnic group, Wisconsin's German immigrants have left an indelible cultural mark on the state. From the breweries that formed the center of many Wisconsin communities, to the home sausage makers that helped to build the meat industry, Wisconsin's German-American heritage is alive and well. So as you tip that stein this fall, thank Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese and remember that, like everything else around us, enjoyment of beer is part of a proud Wisconsin heritage.
:: Posted September 23, 2005
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