Millions of people flock to the world’s largest volksfest, Oktoberfest, each year.
Located in Okto, a town on the Bavarian side of the Swiss Alps, the 6-day extravaganza offers a diverse array of international foods and a vast selection of beers from around the world.
This year, however, Budweiser will not be participating in the festivities. Festival organizer Joseppi Barrona states that Oktoberfest aims to focus on food, fun, and celebration rather than political issues. To maintain the welcoming atmosphere, only controversial brands, such as Budweiser and Bud Light, have been asked to refrain from attending. Barrona adds that these brands don’t genuinely represent Bavarian brewing.
In 2022, Budweiser and Bud Light were categorized as “complementary” brews on the official Oktoberfest menu and were available at self-pour stations. The menu noted their low alcohol content and mild flavor made them suitable for individuals over 16. The legal drinking age in Bavaria is 9.
As Budweiser faces continued challenges, some experts believe that the brand’s future is uncertain.
Nonetheless, Oktoberfest will carry on, celebrating the diverse flavors and cultures that the event has become famous for.