Americans travel to Germany for Oktoberfest

MUNICH (CBS, KYMA) - The world's biggest beer bash kicked off over the weekend in Germany, with plenty of Americans celebrating Oktoberfest.

Tourism officials expect up to 100,000 U.S. visitors to make the trip this year.

Many of them dressed in dirndls and lederhosen, and nearly everyone with a super-sized stein in their hand.

"Oktoberfest means good friends, fun times and lots of beer," said Randy Kelly, a Florida resident marking his 28th year to Oktoberfest.

The tradition dates all the way back to 1810, when it began as a royal wedding celebration. More than two centuries later, the party's still going strong.