Oktoberfest at Vance Published Sept. 18, 2015 71st Operations Group VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The 71st Operations Group will be hosting an Oktoberfest Oct. 16, and everyone is welcome. The event will incorporate class and squadron-driven competitions, CRUD tournaments, live music, authentic German beer and food and a piano burn to cap the night. Traditionally, the end of summer and beginning of fall marks a change in the weather and the beginning of one of the world's largest annual festivals - Oktoberfest. Oktoberfest has been celebrated for nearly 200 years, primarily in Germany, but it has grown well beyond Bavaria. The origins of Oktoberfest can be traced to Prince Ludwig of Bavaria, who wanted a celebration of his marriage to Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen Oct. 12, 1810. There were competitions, races, and the entire city was invited. In addition to the two-week celebration in Munich, Oktoberfest is enjoyed in one form or another in cities and towns worldwide. The festival typically spans over 16 days and hosts 6 million party goers who consume 2 million gallons of beer. Presold tickets for the Oct. 16 event will soon be available for purchase and will include a 34-ounce mug filled with an authentic beverage of your choice, a generous portion of authentic German food, and discounted beverage prices. Do not worry if you live off base or have children, as both child care and transportation will be provided. (Source- Elissa Haney via www.infoplease.com/spot/oktfest1)