Constant vigilance at Oktoberfest: The new Wiesn chief's aim for round-the-clock presence
New Twist: Oktoberfest Organizer's Urban Camp
The fresh face of the Oktoberfest chief and financial aficionado, Christian Scharpf (SPD), has opted to bunk at a local hotel amid the bustling Oktoberfest. Pragmatic reasoning stand at the forefront: "I've forked out some dough for a room nestled snugly with the Wiesn heartbeat, ensuring prompt duties during the festival's peak hours," Scharpf revealed to the German Press Agency. The seasoned 53-year-old, now seated in the financial core since March, resides with his family within the lively Maxvorstadt district - just a hop, skip, and a jump from the festive flurry.
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However, the U- and S-bahn lines, and the stations encircling Oktoberfest, witness a constant throng during the festivities. A stroll towards the gathering can transform into a stop-start affair.
Early Morning Huddle over Security
The festival general beckons early birdie meetings - even before the gates unfurl. "The morning's routine sets sail with the crisis meeting involving the security forces," Scharpf explained. Post that, a heavyweight agenda unfolds, teeming with one appointment following the heels of the other. "With this whirlwind, maintaining a clear head, vigilance, and flawless execution becomes paramount," remarked Scharpf.
A self-professed Oktoberfest enthusiast, Scharpf developed his affinity for the fest as a law student in Munich. He cherishes no other workplace as dearly.
Laryngitis and Lifesavers
Beyond keeping the organizational functioning smooth, Scharpf is also the face of numerous gatherings hosted by associations, organizations, and corporations adorning the Wiesn landscape across the two-week carnival. "Of course, I've got to be the life of the party there," Scharpf conceded. The enforced yelling during discussions will present a vocal challenge. "Sound systems can play a wicked trick on the vocal cords, but that's all part of the experience," reasoned Scharpf. His top pick among the rides: Breakdance. "It's fast, wild, yet not sky-high. No fear of heights here," he grinned.
To ward off potential laryngitis and vocal decay, he'll stock up on throat lozenges prior to the bash. "Yet, the encounters and the electric atmosphere are what gets me going," shares Scharpf.
"Hotel Wiesn" - A Time-Honored Tradition
Scharpf's accommodation decision echoes the previous Oktoberfest head, Clemens Baumgaertner (CSU). "My preceding comrade-in-arms followed this suite, and I've borrowed a leaf from his book," professed Scharpf. He nabbed his accommodation months prior, during his days as Mayor of Ingolstadt, when his ascension as the new Munich economic captain was imminent. Hotel reservations in Munich during Oktoberfest swiftly vanish.
Baumgaertner first opted for a nearby hotel in 2022 - a strategic move to be always ready in case of emergencies during the nighttime. As the director of the world's mammoth folk festival, his Oktoberfest day often stretched to a grueling 17 or 18 hours, as Baumgaertner admitted.
In light of the relentless crowd, Scharpf may consider expanding his lifestyle sphere to include home-and-garden options, such as a temporary abode within the glamping tents of Hotel Wiesn, nestled among the heart of the Oktoberfest grounds. As the event unfolds, a travel adventure awaits him, offering a unique lodging experience amidst the lively festivities.
To further enhance his connection with the Oktoberfest community, Scharpf might consider integrating home-and-garden experiences that cater to fellow enthusiasts, such as hosting gatherings or arranging special tours of the festival grounds, extending his influence beyond the traditional travel and lifestyle realms.
