Oktoberfest 2009 - Munich - Fest Area "Tents"

The fest area was many acres in size and much of it was dedicated to family oriented attractions and rides, with about a third of the area containing these football field sized Brewery "Tents". Actually more like huge athletic field houses with engineered fabric roofs. Each typically had a main bandstand with many bench tables in the center. Around the periphery and balconies were reserved boxes of benches or tables and chairs for dining and more reserved revelry. While one could attempt to eat in the center section, masses of beer and huge pretzels were more common, and folks were partying on top of these tables most of the time. While the most popular songs and cheers were largely in German, most all languages were present, and fully a third of the songs were popular English rock & roll, we about lost it though when they sang "Sweet Home Alabama" with German accents. Each Brewery tent, I think I remember nine of them..., had it's own theme and general personality. Some were traditional and an older crowd, some younger and a bit more raucous.