Oktoberfest is open. The world’s largest folk festival begins after ceremonial keg-tapping

Associated Press

MUNICH (AP) — Oktoberfest has opened in Munich after the ceremonial beer keg-tapping. Mayor Dieter Reiter officially started the 189th Oktoberfest at noon when he inserted the tap into the first keg. The celebration runs through Oct. 6 in 18 large tents covering the fairground and is considered the world’s largest folk festival. Security this year includes stepped-up safety measures in the wake of a deadly knife attack in Solingen, a city roughly 470 kilometers northwest of Munich. Some 6 million visitors are expected over the festival’s 16 days and they can expect to shell out between 13.60 and 15.30 euros for a 1-liter mug of beer – that’s 33 fluid ounces.