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Fights and a skinny dip kick off Oktoberfest

DPA/The Local
DPA/The Local - [email protected]
Fights and a skinny dip kick off Oktoberfest
Photo: DPA

UPDATE: Paramedics and police were kept busy at the opening weekend of Munich's Oktoberfest, treating hundreds of revellers and arresting dozens, though it was still considered a peaceful start.

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On the first day, 49 people were arrested, among those were pickpocketers, gropers and fighters.

On Saturday night, a 26 year-old was charged with assault after hitting another guest with his beer mug.

Police were also called to rescue a 21-year-old French fest-goer who went skinnydipping in the Isar river after being dared by her American friend. The woman jumped in and was quickly caught in the current. A 47-year-old Munich man jumped in the water to grab her, while two teenagers held on to the pair from the riverbanks. Police then got the two out.

The woman was treated for hypothermia, but the man made his way home, unharmed, according to police.

PHOTO GALLERY: The best pics from the opening weekend

The Red Cross treated more than 700 patients in Munich in the first two days of Oktoberfest. Of those, 19 were treated for alcohol poisoning. Most others were treated for light injuries.  

The opening weekend welcomed a million visitors to the massive tents of the traditional Bavarian harvest festival. One million one-litre beers (Maß) were consumed, along with tens of thousands of Bratwurst and roast chickens as well as a dozen oxen.

"If the festival continues the way it has started, it will again be a celebration of friends, comfort and joyful togetherness," said Josef Schmid, Munich's deputy mayor who is leading the festival.

Munich's mayor Dieter Reiter officially opened the festival on Saturday by tapping the first barrel of beer.

The 181st Oktoberfest is the first year that sees the average Maß costing more than €10. The festival is on until October 5th. 

SEE ALSO: Your guide to Munich Oktoberfest's food

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