Local Bavarian Biergarten (Photo courtesy of Julian Temblador)
GRAFENWOEHR, Germany — As COVID-19 restrictions begin to relax and spring brings better weather in Bavaria, beer gardens reopened across Germany.
A beer garden (taken from the German word, “Biergarten”) is an open-air space, where beer and food are served — typically at a communal table.
The idea dawned in the 19th century, as Bavarian breweries planted gardens and trees above cellars, to keep their lagers cool enough to ferment underground. And on Jan. 4, 1812, Bavaria’s first king signed a decree to allow brewers the ability to sell beer on the spot.
With the Bavarian beer garden being a long-standing tradition, German officials implemented safe ways to allow operations to continue — at a limited capacity — during this global pandemic.
“The time has come for a cautious reopening,” said Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder, during a press conference on May 5.
Local beer gardens made some significant changes to adapt to the new normal that coronavirus brings. If you want to enjoy the Bavarian tradition of beer gardens this spring, here are a few things you should know: