Oktoberfest’s Beer-Soaked History, Explained | Eater
"The fairgrounds west of the city that have hosted the annual festival since the inaugural 1810 celebration; originally the site of a multi-day royal wedding fête that included horse races, the field was later named after the princess involved. Over the 19th century it expanded with carousels and swings (first added in 1818), and municipal management introduced parades, agricultural shows, beer and food stalls, and carnival attractions; while the early horse races ended in 1960, the rides, tents, and large-scale public festivities remain central to the site." - Dana Hatic
