It was that time of the year again: an entire evening where drinking obscene amounts of alcohol is not only socially acceptable, but practically a requirement.
The Malaysian German Society held its 38th annual Oktoberfest celebration last October in Air Itam. Around 1,600 Penangites got a taste of Bavarian culture, gorging themselves on traditional German foods like sauerkraut and bratwuerste, as well as tasty treats like gingerbread, not to mention large quantities of cheap booze.
As a band flown in all the way from Neuburg on the Danube River played traditional Bavarian music, guests were treated to a variety of games and activities. Some were simple ones that are easy to get your head around, like dancing and arm wrestling, while others seemed like a good idea only after you’ve had a few, like the beer mug carrying contest. One’s arms can only ache in empathy at the sight.
