Oktoberfest

Prost! A Guide to Experiencing the Magic of Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest, the world’s largest folk festival, is a celebration unlike any other. More than just a beer festival, it’s a cultural extravaganza filled with music, laughter, and tradition. If you’re dreaming of attending this iconic event in Munich, Germany, here’s what you need to know:

What is Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest is an annual festival held in Munich, Germany, that began in 1810 as a wedding celebration and has since evolved into a massive 16-day beer and folk festival. From its humble beginnings, it now attracts millions of visitors from around the globe with its lively atmosphere, delicious food, and, of course, its world-famous beer tents.

Where to Visit:

  • The Theresienwiese (Wiesn): This vast fairground in Munich is the heart of Oktoberfest. You’ll find the largest and most elaborate beer tents here, each with their own unique atmosphere and entertainment.

Where to Eat & Drink:

  • Traditional Bavarian Food: Inside the festival grounds, you’ll be spoilt for choice with 14 massive beer tents offering a variety of food and experiences. Don’t miss out on:
    • Hendl (Roast Chicken): A must-have Oktoberfest experience! Enjoy juicy roasted chicken served in half a liter portions.
    • Brezel (Pretzel): The perfect salty companion to your beer, these giant pretzels are soft and delicious.
    • Beer: Oktoberfest is renowned for its Oktoberfestbier, a special Märzen style brewed for the occasion.

Experience the Tents:

Oktoberfest wouldn’t be complete without indulging in the traditional food and drink. While the main event is the beer, there are other Bavarian specialties to enjoy:

  • Augustiner-Keller: This iconic outdoor beer garden offers a taste of authentic Oktoberfest ambiance with live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy their delicious “Hendl” (roast chicken) while soaking up the lively atmosphere.

Beyond the Food & Drink:

  • Hofbräuhaus: This legendary beer hall is a Munich institution, even if you can’t get inside the tent for all 14 days, you can still experience the famous Oktoberfest ambiance at this historic venue.

  • Augustiner-Keller: Enjoy the traditional Bavarian atmosphere and live music in this world-famous tent.

  • Oktoberfest Beer: Experience the unique flavors of traditional Oktoberfestbier, brewed specifically for the festival using only natural ingredients.

  • Traditional Rides & Games: From towering Ferris wheels to thrilling rollercoasters, there’s something for everyone at the Oktoberfest! Try your hand at classic games like “Ring Werfen” (ring throwing) or “Bierzelte” (beer tents)

Experience the Thrill:

  • The Hofbräuhaus: The most well-known of the beer tents, this sprawling venue is a must-visit for its traditional atmosphere and lively music.

  • The Bavarian Oktoberfest: More than just beer and rides!

    • Food: Enjoy classic Bavarian food like roast pork (Schweinebraten), pretzels, potato salad (Kartoffelsalat) and potato dumplings (Kartoffelknödel).

  • Rides & Games: Experience the thrill of traditional rides and the excitement of the games.

Accommodation:

  • Hotels: Book in advance! Oktoberfest draws millions of visitors to Munich and accommodation fills up quickly.

Other things to try:

  • Explore the City: If you’re visiting Munich for Oktoberfest, take advantage of the opportunity to see more of this vibrant city. Stroll through the beautiful Marienplatz, visit the historic Hofbräuhaus tent (a world-famous experience!), or enjoy a traditional Bavarian meal at one of the many restaurants outside the festival grounds.
  • Hendl: Don’t just drink in Munich, try the delicious “Hendl” (roast chicken) served in massive portions
  • Visit the Hofbrauhaus: Experience the famous beer hall and its lively atmosphere.

Rides & Games: The Theresienwiese is a haven for amusement rides and games. Enjoy traditional Bavarian music and dancing while indulging in some classic Oktoberfest fun!

  • Accommodation: Consider staying in one of the nearby hotels like the Hotel Bayerischer Hof or the Mandarin Oriental, Munich.

  • Experience the Culture: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Bavaria by visiting a traditional Bavarian restaurant outside the festival grounds and enjoy local music and dancing.

Other Activities:

  • Live Music: Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Oktoberfest.
  • Traditional Clothing: Embrace the Bavarian tradition and dress up in Lederhosen (leather breeches) for men or Dirndl for women!
  • Bavarian Food & Drink: Enjoy the delicious food and drink that are available both inside and outside the festival grounds.

Beyond the Beer Tents:

  • Rides:

Experience the thrill of traditional rides like the Ferris wheel, the carousel, and the “Bayern-Fahrrad” (Bavarian bicycle) ride!