The traditional carousel called Wellenreiter ("WaveRider"), complete with balloons and blurred people.

Another traditonal fun ride is the "Münchner Rutsch'n" (Munich Glide). You climb up 23 meters using the steps on the left side, get a large door mat, and then you glide down across the waves. Even if the ride just takes a few seconds (each lane is just 55 meters), it is apparently great fun.

A close up photo of the "Münchner Rutsch'n" (Munich Glide). A girl is gliding down the fun ride, winning the race against the lady in the lane next to her.

The "Playball" funride seems to bring these girls to their limits. No wonder if you consider that the ride turns you in every imaginable direction at a high speed. We suggest to not try this after a few beers.

The variete show "Beim Schicht'l" has been for ages on the Oktoberfest. It's owner, Manfred Schauer (in the middle), is "Schicht'l", who runs you through the program of small episodes and magic tricks. With the energy he is spreading on the outer stage, it is more than likely that the show will be as entertaining as it gets.

Here is another spectacular fun ride: the "Star Flyer" - a carousel in 45 meters height, giving you an excellent view on the Oktoberfest. The ride does not last very long, but it looks definitely impressing.

When visiting the Octoberfest, please do not miss out the traditional fish ("Steckerlfisch") that are being grilled over open fire. YOu'll get them at the "Fischer Vroni" tent. Yummy!

This coach driver is enjoying his beer after the work has been done.

This was it for the opening day of the Oktoberfest. The main exit of the fest wishes "Pfüa Gott" to the visitors, which is Bavarian and means basically "go with God". Below that the German "Auf Wiedersehen!" or "Good Bye!".