Oktoberfest is a tradition rooted in the Bavarian region of Germany, though it’s often mistaken for a broader German tradition. Over time, this celebration has spread globally, and Weber State University is no exception. The tradition started in Munich, a city in the German region of Bavaria, when the to-be king married and invited the town to attend and celebrate. This happened on Oct. 12, 1810, but now Oktoberfest is celebrated in late September or early October. WSU adhered to this timeline by celebrating on Oct. 4.
Students arriving on the Ogden campus were welcomed with lively German music, traditional food and American-style root beer floats. The first 100 students received free food. Of those individuals was Sebasthian Nunez Mercedes, a Weber State student who was thrilled to be among the early attendees.
“I was actually the first one in line,” Mercedes said. “I came here 40 minutes early to get my free mug.”
As this was the first Oktoberfest that Weber has hosted, many students were unaware of the event’s existence. Among them was WSU student Logan Johnston.
“I’ve been to Oktoberfest before, which is usually a massive event. I hadn’t heard of Oktoberfest at Weber State, but my friend texted me and told me to come and get some food,” Johnston said.
The event occurred in the Shepherd Union Building, with lines nearly stretching outside as eager students waited for root beer floats and pretzels.
“This is the first Oktoberfest we’ve done. It’s really fun! I love the idea of the root beer floats because the foam spilling over looks like beer,” Elsa Hassett, dining marketing manager at Weber State, said.
With the combination of German music, popular food and a lively atmosphere, the spirit of a traditional Oktoberfest seemed to be alive and well.
Weber State University is home to many international students from diverse backgrounds, and events like Oktoberfest allow students to experience new traditions and cultures, helping to amplify and enrich the university’s vibrant community.
Although this was Weber’s first Oktoberfest, the event’s success is a good indicator that it likely won’t be the last.
