Oktoberfest kicks off in Munich and Panama
For 200 years the citizen’s of Munich have celebrated Oktoberfest with music, dancing, song, gargantuan feasting and of course beer.
It all started in 1810 when a crown prince married a princess and united two kingdoms, and the citizens were invited to join in the celebrations.
While Panama is a bit short on Crown princes and can’t hope to challenge what has become the biggest party on the planet, it does have its own corner where the tradition is maintained, beer flows, the band plays and there are plates loaded with hearty helpings of Munich style specialties food from schnitzel to bratwurst, schweinsbraten and noodles and more; and it’s on every Friday and Saturday from September 18 to October 30.
There are 45 different kinds of beer, including local brands, and of course exotic German flavors, some of which challenge for the best in the world. If you can down a stein of each brand during the night, you might qualify for the Guiness Book of Records.
On Friday from 5 to 8 p.m. it’s all the local beer you can drink for $10. Make sure you have a designated driver with you.
Music will be provided on the opening night and on October 2, 16 and at the grand finale on October30, by the Bombero’s band from Chepo which was a big and lusty success at last year’s celebration. This year says mein host Fritz Schmutte, they have expanded their repertoire to include some genuine Oktoberfest music. They will also have CD's on sale. A good buy.
The location is the Rincon Aleman on Calle 51. Enjoy. You can check into the gym when the music fades.
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