If you want to go to huge party and visiting Munich or south Germany at the end of September, then you need to visit the Octoberfest. The world biggest beer festival.
Visiting Oktoberfest is a unique experience that combines traditional German culture with a carnival-like atmosphere. The festival features a wide range of attractions, including traditional Bavarian music, food, and of course, beer.
Getting in a tent
There are numerous beer tents to choose from, each with its own unique atmosphere and selection of beer. It is important to pace yourself and drink responsibly, as the beer served at Oktoberfest is typically stronger than what you might be used to.
Hofbräu Festzelt: This tent is one of the largest at Oktoberfest and is known for its lively atmosphere and rowdy crowds. It features live music, traditional Bavarian food, and of course, plenty of Hofbräu beer.
Augustiner Festhalle: This tent is known for its traditional Bavarian decor and laid-back atmosphere. It is a favorite among locals and features Augustiner beer, which is considered by many to be the best beer served at Oktoberfest.
Paulaner Festzelt: This tent is one of the most popular at Oktoberfest and features live music and a festive atmosphere. It serves Paulaner beer and a variety of traditional Bavarian dishes.
Hacker-Festzelt: This tent is known for its impressive decor and festive atmosphere. It serves Hacker-Pschorr beer and features live music and entertainment.
Schottenhamel: This tent is where the official Oktoberfest opening ceremony takes place and is known for its lively and energetic atmosphere. It serves Spaten beer and features live music and entertainment.
Käfer’s Wiesn-Schänke: This tent is one of the most exclusive at Oktoberfest and is known for its high-end decor and gourmet food offerings. It serves Paulaner beer and attracts a more upscale crowd.
Drinking from a Mass
Beer is a central part of the Oktoberfest experience, and there are several types of beer available at the festival. The most common type of beer served at Oktoberfest is a strong, full-bodied lager known as Märzen. This beer has a rich, malty flavor and is typically served in large, one-liter mugs known as Maß.
Only beer brewed within Munich city limits and following the Reinheitsgebot (Bavarian Purity Law) is allowed to be served at Oktoberfest. This means that the beer served at the festival is of a consistently high quality and is brewed according to centuries-old traditions.
The six major Munich breweries, known as the “Big Six,” each have a tent at Oktoberfest where they serve their own beer. These breweries are:
- Augustiner-Bräu
- Hacker-Pschorr-Bräu
- Löwenbräu
- Paulaner-Bräu
- Spatenbräu
- Hofbräu München
In addition to the traditional Märzen beer, some tents also offer a lighter beer called Helles, which is similar in flavor to a Pilsner. Non-alcoholic beer and other beverages, such as wine and soft drinks, are also available.
It’s important to note that the beer served at Oktoberfest is stronger than typical beer, with an alcohol content of around 6-7%. It’s recommended to pace yourself and drink water or non-alcoholic beverages in between beers to avoid overindulging.
Eating
There are also plenty of food stalls serving up traditional Bavarian fare such as pretzels, sausages, and roasted chicken. There are also carnival rides and games for those looking for a break from drinking and eating.
Behave, enjoy your beer and beer friendly
Where traditional clothes
When you arrive at the festival, be sure to wear traditional Bavarian clothing if possible, such as a dirndl for women or lederhosen for men. This will not only help you blend in with the locals, but it will also enhance your overall experience.
Accommodation
If you plan to visit Oktoberfest, it is important to book your accommodation well in advance, as hotels in Munich can fill up quickly during the festival.
History of the Octoberfest
The festival originated in 1810 as a celebration of the marriage between Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen
Overall, Oktoberfest is a one-of-a-kind experience that is not to be missed for anyone interested in German culture, beer, and good times with friends and family.
