The organizers of the largest beer festival in the world – Oktoberfest in Munich – are tightening security measures after the series of Islamist attacks in the country last month. Envisaged is a prohibition of backpacks over 3 liters, checks on all inputs, and raising a fence, reports “Reuters”.
The festival, which annually attracts about 6 million people, is one of the most important events for the residents of the Bavarian capital. This year it will be held between September 17 and October 3.
However, in the province is growing the fear of terrorism following the attack on a train near Würzburg and the attack during a music festival in Ansbach, within which were injured 20 people.
Furthermore during July, an 18-year-old German-Iranian killed 9 people in a shooting at a shopping center in Munich.
“We want to do everything we can in terms of security so that the people of Munich and their guests can revel in a relaxed way. We looked at all options,” said Deputy Mayor Joseph Schmidt.
This year are involved 450 stewards at 250 last year. It is also built a two-meter fence around the open space where the festival is held, to make sure that no one will be able to avoid inspections.
The first Oktoberfest was held in 1810 on the occasion of the wedding of Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. The festivities continue five days and gained such popularity that is held annually.
