October 21, 2015
Maria Martinez
Oktoberfest sign welcoming people in.
The world’s largest beer festival began Oct. 9 and runs through Oct. 24, opening only Fridays and Saturdays from 6 p.m-11 p.m. Tickets are only $5, parking is $15 and 21 and over are allowed in with an identification required.
Oktoberfest brings a drop of Germany to Los Angeles at Fairplex, home of the L.A. County Fair. Bavarian music, beer, German food, chicken dance, games, and prizes, Oktoberfest provides all the excitement and German tradition that Los Angeles can offer.
Guests are transported to Bavaria as they walk through the gates and into the festival able where there is live music, people taking photos with Viking horns, and of course, beer everywhere.
Once inside, there are no outside cups or containers allowed.
They are more than fifteen beers to choose from, for instance, Spaten Oktoberfest which is one of peoples favorite. Beer prices range from $20 for a 32 oz and $12 for a 24 oz.
There is a traditional German group name The Rheinlanders and known as “Oom-pah” band. These bands have been heard in the villages of Germany. The popular dance and folk music can get any audience clapping, singing, and dancing.
Inside the festival are a few food trucks and famous German food like, sweet corn, potato pancakes, pickles, and pretzels. Currywurst is a national dish that consists of a Bratwurst type sausage, with curry-flavored ketchup.
Another is the Berlin food truck, well known to sell sausages and grilled cheese for anyone who is looking for authentic German food.
For first timers, it is advised to go early; there is a lot of traffic entering the parking structure and a big line to purchase tickets. Other than that it was a lot of fun and a great experience. The best part is that you get to try different beers, enjoy the live music, and great company with friends.
