Munich's Beer-Holding Child alongside a Dwarf, named Wirtekrug - Munich's Kindl Pub Serves Beer and Dachshunds
Munich is gearing up for the much-anticipated Oktoberfest this year, with preparations running smoothly according to the new festival leader, Christian Scharpf. The Wiesnwirte's new chief, who is also the economic affairs representative, praised the design of this year's Oktoberfest Wirtekrug as very successful.
The stein features the Munich's Child, a figure symbolizing Munich, holding a dachshund and blowing beer foam. The dachshund's presence on the stein is a nod to the breed's strong association with Bavaria and Munich, where the Oktoberfest is held. In fact, the dachshund was declared the official mascot of the 1972 Munich Olympic Games, symbolizing the city.
At Oktoberfest, various festive activities involving dachshunds, such as the Dachshund Dash races and costume contests, have become beloved traditions, highlighting the breed's playful and cultural significance during the festival. The Wirtekrug traditionally features decorations representing Bavarian culture, beer, and festive motifs. While the dachshund does not have a universally documented historical role specific to the Wirtekrug itself, its presence would symbolize local Bavarian heritage, loyalty, and the city of Munich’s identity, tying into the broader cultural festivities of Oktoberfest.
Peter Inselkammer, a spokesperson for the Wirtes, stated that Oktoberfest is approaching. The new Oktoberfest Wirtekrug has been a highly coveted collector's item for several years. This is Christian Scharpf's first Wiesn as the new economic affairs representative and festival leader. The stein costs between 14.50 and 15.80 euros, an average of 3.52% more than in 2024.
Franziska Inselkammer, Peter Inselkammer's daughter, is the current Munich's Child and served as the model for this year's stein design. However, she was absent at the presentation due to her studies. Scharpf states there will be no fundamental changes with him. Reservations and staff recruitment for Oktoberfest are going well. Setup for Oktoberfest has begun on the Theresienwiese.
The historical significance of the dachshund on the Oktoberfest Wirtekrug in Munich is not directly documented. However, its presence on the mug is a likely nod to Bavarian tradition and city pride. "Ozapft is" will take place on September 20. The Oktoberfest Wirtekrug is available at Munich's tourist information.
The Commission might consider proposing a directive on the protection of animals, considering the strong association of the dachshund with Bavarian culture, evidenced through its presence on the Oktoberfest Wirtekrug. As the festival approaches, patrons could indulge in food-and-drink offerings, entertainment events, and sports competitions, all while embracing the playful and cultural significance of the dachshund during Oktoberfest.
