Oktoberfest is a worldwide phenomenon and the Bavarian Oktoberfest celebrated in countries around the world.
But many say there is no place more interesting than its hometown of Munich. The festival attracted about six millions of celebrants every yearAccording to the festival website run by the Munich Ministry of Labor and Economics.
As a non-Bavarian German I visit Munich regularly and learned a bit about attending this festival (called simply “Wiesn”). This is my suggestion.
what to wear
The dress code for many is a traditional Bavarian dress for women and leather pants for men. In stark contrast to the rest of the world, you won't be accused of cultural appropriation here – in fact, locals invite international visitors to dress in traditional clothing.
Revelers wear leather pants to celebrate Oktoberfest on September 21, 2024.
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These costumes are suitable for any budget, from cheap disposable clothing to Vintage and custom clothing rent.
A few things to remember: Lederhosen is plural, so a pair of leather pants is a pair of leather pants. These are Bavarian-style clothing, not the German style that many travelers think of. Head north and you won’t see them – except for Oktoberfest, of course.
From ordering to tip
Beer does not come in a beer glass as many people think, but in a glass called a “mass”, which is a liter of beer. The server can hold up to 6 objects in each hand and weighs approximately 12 kg (26 lbs). Waiters are paid a percentage of the beer and food they serve, plus tips. So please give a tip.
On September 22, 2024, a waiter served beer to the table during the Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany.
Kirill Kudryavtsev | Kirill Kudryavtsev AFP | Getty Images
To get their attention, waiters will wear a clothespin with their name on it, but they'll also use the casual “du” meaning “you.” — German.
Revelers hold the handles so they can easily clink glasses and raise toasts. When the band shouts: “Ein Prosit, ein Prosit der Gemütlichkeit. Oans, zwoa, driel g'suffa!” – which translates to “Cheers, to fun and friendship. One, two, three, cheers!” – revelers Should have finished the cup and reordered.
Why is Oktoberfest celebrated in September?
The first Oktoberfest was held in Munich in October 1810 to celebrate the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Theresa von Saxe-Hildburghausen. Over the years, the festival has grown into a 16-day celebration, often affected by rainfall in October. By 1905, the festival moved to late September and always ends on the first Sunday in October.
Other times, they would practice “Schunkeln,” linking arms and swaying to the music.
Women: If you wear a dress, be careful about how you tie the bow. Traditionally, a tie on the right side means you are single and willing to flirt.
not just beer
The theme of Oktoberfest is beer. The beer is specially brewed for the Oktoberfest and has a strong taste (more than 6%). But there is also wine, Apfelschorle (a drink made of carbonated water and apple juice), non-alcoholic beer, soft drinks and water.
A waitress carries a plate of food as Oktoberfest celebrations begin.
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There are countless food stalls along the Weizen River, serving giant pretzels (called brezen), meats such as sausages, weisswurst and schnitzel, as well as chips, curries and more.
Things to do in Munich
Just a short walk from Theresienwiese (meaning “Theresa's meadow” and the site of the festival), travelers can visit the former city gate Sendlinger Tor and the lovely cereal market (Viktualienmarkt).
Bavarian brass band players outside the Oktoberfest Museum.
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The historic Old Town is also nearby, with its former imperial palace, Residenz Palace, world-famous Hofbräuhaus and Beer and Oktoberfest Museum.
For a day trip from the city, the stunning Neuschwanstein Castle is a 90-minute drive from Munich. Salzburg, Austria, is a beautiful city less than two hours away by train, as is the picturesque town of Rothenburg just north of Munich.
After your beer, consider a day relaxing in the snow-capped Alps at Lake Starnberg.
Beer festivals around the world
Those who can't travel to Munich don't have to worry. There are wonderful festivals around the world where you can experience tradition, fun and food.
One of the biggest celebrations is held in Hong Kong. this Marco Polo German Oktoberfest Featuring all the trappings of a festival, plus views of Hong Kong Harbour.
People pose for photos during the Cincinnati Oktoberfest on September 16, 2021 in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Jeff Dean | AFP | Getty Images
In the United States, a major holiday occurs on Cincinnati, Ohioand in South America Blumenau, Brazil.
Those who don't like crowds can try another annual German celebration – Spring Festival. It was held at the same venue, Theresienwiese in Munich, but with fewer tents and in many ways just as interesting.