marked the start of the 182nd Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany

revelers dressed in traditional Bavarian lederhosen and dirndl dresses were expected to flock to Theresienwiese

square-meter - area of the official grounds at Theresienwiese

days, duration of the fest

year since the festival has been held. It is a mainstay of German culture, featuring a smorgasbord of southern fare, including roast chicken and pork, sausages, dumplings, Sauerkraut, pretzels — and Oktoberfest Beer!

litres were consumed last year