Costume and Rifleman Parade

One of the highlights of Oktoberfest, at least for me, is the Trachten und Schützenzug (Costume and Rifleman) Parade that has taken place since celebrating the silver wedding anniversary of Ludwig and Therese all those years ago.  The parade has grown in grandeur ever since and now has over 9000 participants (on 4 legs, on 2 legs and even on wheels) that march 7km (4.35) miles through the streets of Munich for approximately 3 hours.  Unlike the opening parade the day before, which brings the necessities of Oktoberfest to the grounds - the beer, pulled by horse and carriage, the waiters and waitresses who will work tirelessly for 17 days to serve that beer, the bands that will play "Ein Prosit" until their ears bleed and the landlords of the tents proudly waving to the crowds - The Costume and Rifleman Parade brings the Pomp and Circumstance.

We were running a bit late that morning because MadHatter had just gotten back from her field trip the day before and truly needed the sleep.  And truthfully, the weather was a bit yuck so we were in no hurry to stand and wait for it to start.  Which meant that by the time we got there the crowds were deep, but we somehow lucked out and found a spot, under a tree, right in front.  It may be it was empty because no adult could possible stand up straight under the said tree but since I was crouching to take pictures anyway, it was no problem.

We only stayed for an hour but what an hour!  See for yourselves...And then join us next year and see it in person!