Munich is not the only place offering liquid refreshments at this time of year. Stuttgart’s Cannstatter Volkfest, which kicks off Friday and runs through Oct. 14, is expected to attract 3.5 million visitors to the city’s Wasen festival grounds. The fest offers carnival rides plus tents serving beer and wine, food specialties, games and vendors.

Celebrations begin Friday at 7 p.m., when Stuttgart’s mayor taps the keg at the Schwaben Bräu-Festzelt. On Saturday at 11 a.m., enjoy traditional costumed performers, choirs and the Stuttgart horse guards in front of the fruit column.

The high point of the opening ceremonies comes Sunday at 11 a.m., when a parade of decorated floats, costumed marchers and musical bands involving some 3,500 participants gets underway. Entry to the fest is free and Wednesday is family day, with discounts on rides.

Hours are noon to 11 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m. to midnight Saturday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday. See www.cannstatter-volksfest.de, which has an English link.