Day 8. OKTOBERFEST

Yesterday we caught a cab to the train station and headed up to Munich for Oktoberfest. We met a bearded fellow on the train, who was from Lake Tahoe. He gave us some helpful tips on traveling the country, then went on to talk about how JFK was the last U.S. President to give a damn about 'the people.' 

After we arrived in Munich, we walked about 20 minutes to the 'fairgrounds' at Oktoberfest. It was the biggest carnival-fair-beer/foodie festival EVER! There were different tents for each different beer, each with it's own menu and live band. Many people were dressed up in authentic clothing, I guess it's like wearing mu'umu'us at the Merrie Monarch? The atmosphere was like being in Gaston's pub (Beauty and the Beast) as people spilled their beer while clinking their heavy glasses together. There were old drunken Spaniards, bull fighting with a Spanish flag, and a fight that broke out a few tables down. People would cheer as their friends stood on a table and chugged, while others clapped and sang along with the band. Every once and awhile, someone would stand on a table and do some sort of jig. 

Our first bier at Oktoberfest, in the Paulaner tent

1/2 Duck (ente) with sauerkraut & potato dumpling--which had a mochi-like consistency, and small pieces of bread on the inside 

Mystery sausage and sauerkraut (Jarett can't remember what this is), and pork knuckle, with potato, horseradish and sauerkraut. The pork was amazing! It tasted like corned beef! 

Jarett spotted a Filipino Elvis at the Löwenbraü
tent…haha

At this tent, we made some Russian and German friends. Apparently, being from Hawaii is a cool thing, because this gentleman wanted to take a picture to show his wife. It took about 5 minutes for Neta to show him how to do a shaka, because his pointer finger wouldn't stay down, lol. 

Jarett met his new Canadian best friend, Jason, at the bathroom. 

After shameless hinting by the ladies all day, Jarett got Nicole & Neta these gingerbreadish cookies that all the local girls seemed to have. Nicole's apparently says, "I love you," however, Neta is convinced hers says "I am a handsome boy." hahahaha

All in all, Oktoberfest was a terrific experience. Hopefully we can return one day with more family and friends in tow!