Oktoberfest HistoryLongwood once upon a time had a festival every October known as "Circus," sponsored by Alpha Kappa Gamma, the leadership honorary society. When this organization changed its name to "Geist," which means "intellect" and "spirit" in German, it was decided that the German theme would be extended to Longwood's annual festival, and thus "Circus" became Oktoberfest. Oktoberfest itself is not a new idea but one borrowed several years ago from Munich, Germany. Annually, they celebrate the festival for a fortnight during the month of October.
This festival initiated in Munich in approximately 1810 by a prince (later to be known as Mad King Ludwig) who called for the celebration in honor of his marriage. It began as a horse race, and through the years, farmers added an agricultural show consisting of booths from which our Midway evolved. Today's booths in the German agricultural show include tents set up by brewers to sell beer. Longwood had kept up with this innovation with the Biergarten in Lancer Café. Our German celebration also begins promptly at noon, which is when Mainstage opens. Just as the German celebration changed, so too has Longwood's festival. We, the members of Mortar Board, participate in the Alzheimer's Walk and sponsor the Oktoberfest Kickoff. One tradition we have continued is the selection of the "meisters." Each meister is chosen for their spirit within their representative classes. The Geistmeister is selected from the Senior Class and leads the Oktoberfest parade with Longwood's President. The Festmeister is selected from the Junior Class and shall intoduce the Master and Mistress of Ceremonies. Finally, the Mittenmeister, chosen from the Sophomore Class, and the Vice President of Oktoberfest, together will cut the ribbon, officially opening Midway.  |
Oktoberfest 2013
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