September 22 is considered the beginning of
Oktoberfest for 2012. The multi-week festival of beer, oompa music,
and wurst always starts in late September. It is one of the most
famous events in Germany and is the world's largest fair, with more
than 5 million people attending every year. The Oktoberfest is an
important part of Bavarian culture and has been held since 1810. Now
Oktoberfests are celebrated in cities around the world.
The holiday started as a royal wedding celebration for Crown Prince
Ludwig, Beer must adhere to strict German Beer Purity laws
(Reinheitsgebot) to be considered official Oktoberfest Beer.