In Hong Kong, the Marco Polo German Bierfest is the most magnificent outdoor event of the year. Last year, over 40,000 guests came together and consumed more than 40,000 litres of beer, 30,000 sausauges and 10,000 pretzels. In celebration of its 20th anniversary, the festival will kick off on October 21 (Friday) with 23 days of ϋber fun, exceeding the traditional 16-day celebration in Munich.

Another special for the 20th anniversary is a special edition beer from Löwenbräu, the iconic Munich-based brewery with a history that dates back to 1383. The fresh and light amber larger, brewed especially to commemorate Oktoberfest, is named Oktoberfestbier or "Wiesenbier", translated as "meadow beer". It is the same traditional beer featured in the Löwenbräu tent at the annual Munich Oktoberfest celebration. Löwenbräu, meaning "lion's beer", has been served in every single Oktoberfest since 1810. It is the very first time that the Löwenbräu Oktoberfestbier is available in Hong Kong. Only 200 glasses are available each night at the Marco Polo German Bierfest; experience history whilst saying "Prost"!

Besides the wide range of beers served, guests who prefer other beverages will be able to enjoy Jägermeister, apple schnapps, red and white wines, juices and soft drinks.

On selected nights, beer-mug-shaped souvenir hats will be distributed on-site to surprise guests. On Fridays and Saturdays, adult guests will be given a special edition beer mug printed with the 20th anniversary logo.

During the celebration, chefs at the Marco Polo Hongkong Hotel will create thousands of Pan-fried sausage "Nürnberger" style with sauerkraut and mashed potato (HK$110), cook tons of Roast pork knuckle served with braised red cabbage and gratinated potato (HK$160), and make hundreds of kilos of Braised beef steak in red wine vinegar sauce with braised red cabbage and spätzle (HK$130), along with other mouth-watering festive dishes such as Roast herb-marinated half chicken with carrot and potato salad (HK$120); Pan-fried salmon cutlet with creamed spinach and boiled new potato (HK$140); and Roast lamb leg with garlic, served with braised red cabbage and gratinated potato (HK$140).

Rounding off the hearty feast is a medley of traditional German desserts including Apple strudel with vanilla sauce; German cheesecake with forest berry compote; Black forest cake; and Fresh strawberry tart with ice cream; all served at HK$70 per portion.

Besides food and drink, the Marco Polo German Bierfest will once again feature the Notenhoblers band, who will don original Oberkrainer clothes and sing traditional tunes, and hearty folk music. Those who want a bit of action after the scrumptious meal can take part in popular games such as "Strong Man", "Milking the Cow", "Pump-the-Blaoon", and "Chicken Dance". These are not for the coy or shy guests! Naturally there will be various drinking contests that are also highlights of the evenings.

Tickets are available via HK Ticketing (www.hkticketing.com / (852) 3128-8288) and at the entrance of the event. Table bookings can be made for parties of 20 persons or above with prepayment. Seats are limited. For enquiries, please contact (852) 2113-3217.

What are you waiting for? Guten appétit und prost!

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