Oktoberfest Hunter Style

06 October 2016 / Article Helen Green Photo: Helen Green

Why is it called "Oktoberfest" when it actually begins in September?
The Nerdy bit:
The first Oktoberfest was actually held in October 1810 in honour of the Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig's marriage to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen (say that 3 times fast!). Since then, the festival has been prolonged and moved forward into September to exploit the more favourable European weather…
But enough of all that, back to last Friday!

Like thousands of Bavarians over the years squished into the big beer tents of Oktoberfest, 18 enthusiastic Hunter Chapter Members crammed into Oma’s Kitchen to celebrate Oktoberfest “Hunter Style”. We all certainly got to know each other better!

With just enough arm room to swing a German beer, the night started with hot pretzels and butter before the main course of schnitzels, sausages, oh and of course a good helping of sauerkraut. Albie, our youngest member, certainly had his work cut out being presented with the biggest sharing plate of mixed meats complete with a day-long cooked pork knuckle! Lucky Mum and Dad (Josh and Yasmin) were there to assist.

A live band playing traditional German music made for great atmosphere with many beers held high as we swung back and forth singing. I don’t know if it was the German language or the number of beers consumed, but I don’t think anyone knew what they were supposed to be singing, but it all sounded great; and everyone knew the moves to the Birdie Song!

All in all, it was a great night out over good food with wonderful friends.
It was such a great time that we shall be looking to organise another dinner in November, and will look to make Oktoberfest an annual event.