Lovers of German beer, wine and food will enjoy the traditional Oktoberfest extravaganza at a new venue this year. Patrick Fong Chi-yan, representative of Erdinger wheat beer, and Ironmonger Events managing director Robert Derry (both pictured) officially kicked off the event, which will take place on October 30 and 31, with a traditional 'keg ritual' at Happy Valley racecourse. According to Fong, this Oktoberfest will be closer to the roots of the event than other Oktoberfests around the world. 'The original Oktoberfest in 1810 was a celebration of the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig and a princess,' he said. 'They actually celebrated with a horse race, so we're sticking close to tradition by having the event at a racecourse.' As well as German beer, wine and traditional cuisine, those attending the two-day event will be entertained by the Munich band, The Flying Sausages. 'We're trying to make sure the event goes the German way as much as possible,' Derry said.