The 171st Oktoberfest kicks off in Munich, when Mayor Christian Ude ceremonially taps the first barrel of Wies'n beer in the Schottenhammel tent.

About 6 million thirsty and party-spirited tourists from Germany and all parts of the world are expected to gather again for the world’s biggest beer bash. In just 16 days, visitors guzzle around 5 million liters (1.32 million gallons) of amber brew and consume over 200,000 German pork sausage links. This year, visitors will have to pay a record €7 ($8.50) for a Mass (a liter glass filled with beer).

In light of this event, DW-WORLD has put together a list of interesting articles on previous Oktoberfests, German beer culture, and the city where it all unfolds -- Munich.