Hic hic hurray for Oktoberfest 2012

Last year, an estimated 80 million beers were downed at the Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany. The 16-day festival, celebrated in the Bavarian city of Munich, runs from late September to early October. Over two hundred years in antiquity, it is the world's largest fair, and one of Germany's most popular events. Nearly 6 million people from all over the world attend the festival, which is an important aspect of Bavarian culture. The tradition dates back to parade held in 1810 to honour the marriage of Prince Ludwig and Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. Since 1850, the fair became a regular event. The horse races, which used to be a regular part of the celebrations, ended in 1960. Today the festival is a tourist magnet, drawing millions for the beer, the revelry and the bonhomie. Only beer brewed within the city limits of Munich, and conforming to strict specifications, is allowed to be sold at the Oktoberfest. The special brand of Oktoberfest Beer is a registered trademark. This year, Octoberfest began on September 22 and will run until October 7. Enjoy these photos from the world's biggest celebration over beer!