The world’s largest Oktoberfest has been held in Munich since 1810. Around 6 million people annually visit Germany to enjoy the super fun festivities at Theresienwese (Oktoberfest ground). However, most of these goers don’t know what to do or avoid at Oktoberfest Munich. This festival starts in the third week of September and ends on the first Sunday of October, which sets the fest to remain full-bloomed for 14-16 days. Knowing the dos and don’ts during the fest is crucial to ensure you experience the cozy ambiance to its fullest and stay conscious of the rules and customs simultaneously.
Apart from being the beer festival, Oktoberfest is a centuries-old Bavarian tradition representing German heritage and alpine culture. Local people welcome you with open arms and modest smiles if you respect their cultural values and behave like a true Bavarian. To stay connected with the locals and not compromise on your comfort, here is a brief list of do’s that Germans admire and a checklist of don’ts that aren’t taken warmly!
The Do’s of Oktoberfest
- Traditional Bavarian Dressing
Out of all the ways one gets into an Oktoberfest mood, the most important is Traditional Oktoberfest attire. The most Popular Bavarian costumes are Lederhosen for men and Dirndl for Women, which aren’t only playful but also courteous towards alpine culture. Lederhosen is a leather-made garb that comes in knee-length breeches or an extended version below the knees called the Bundhosen. Both outfits are embellished with Bavarian embroidery and special design elements that decorate the trachten and complement the costume’s functionality.
Bavarian Dirndl is the official Oktoberfest dress for women. The traditional attire has four basics: the blouse, bodice, skirt, and apron, often complimented with stylish accessories and modern twists. When dressing up for Oktoberfest, make sure your outfit is comfortable. Avoid culturally insensitive garments that may hurt locals, and adorn recommended Bavarian outfits to stay trendy and respectful at the same time.
- Enjoy the Beer Responsibly
The Big Six German beer brands are ready to serve throughout the day at beer tents. But it doesn’t mean you have to consume alcohol all day. The licensed breweries include Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, and Spaten. The beer served at beer tents contains alcohol content from 5.8% to 6.8%. Now that you know the alcohol content, set a stein limit well before ending on the “puke hill.” To get the most out of the taste, you begin the day with lighter beers and progressively move towards the stronger ones.
- Try Out Every Bavarian Delight
Oktoberfest is famous for its special Bavarian cuisine. Plenty of food varieties are on the waiting list, from soft pretzels and juicy sausages to crispy hendl (roasted chicken) and Schwienshaxe (pork knuckle). These starchy foods not only taste local but also assist you in soaking the beer to enjoy the festival longer before getting dozy. Taste out the food stalls that offer the least hiped Bavarian dishes like Obatzda, a Bavarian cheese delicacy, and Dampfnudel, a steamed dumpling that tastes sweet and savory.
- Participate in Festivities
Oktoberfest is nicknamed Beerfest, but well before beer, the Munich festival was all about Bavarian music, traditional dances, cultural events, and thrilling amusement options. If you want to experience the 360 of German fest, just participate in every festivity. From traditional costume parades and the first keg opening ceremony to singing and dancing on the benches, just move with the flow. Roam around Theresienwiese, visit amusement parks, get on a roller coaster, compete on Devil’s Wheel (Teufelsrad), and let everything add to your Oktoberfest diary.
- Respect Bavarian Customs
Oktoberfest is a German cultural festival that demands a proper Bavarian spirit and respect for local customs and traditions. This includes knowing what is ‘acceptable’ in beer tents in particular and Wiesn grounds in general. You should avoid the practice of using tables as feet rest and show courtesy to other people and those serving the festival. Make tent reservations in advance to avoid inconvenience, and if you need extra space on a table, ask gently. Don’t mock anyone’s traditional outfit; instead, use compliments to spread love and mutual respect.
The Don’ts of Oktoberfest
- Don’t Bring Large Bags
To ensure a secure environment as well as ease of movement at Oktoberfest, the festival has some strict rules regarding the size of the bags you can carry along. Don’t carry bags bigger than the size up to 3 liters in volume or 20 cm x 15 cm x 10 cm (approx. 8 in x 6 in x 4 in). Carrying bags bigger than that can be uncomfortable or even dangerous at times as the staff won’t allow it. It’s better to carry small bags that can only accommodate the essentials, such as your wallet and cards, a cell phone, a water bottle, and sunglasses. Doing this would allow you to pass the security checks faster and enjoy the fest worry-free.
- Don’t Ignore Tent Capacities and Rules
Every single tent at Oktoberfest has limited seats. If you are planning to visit Munich this September, don’t ignore tent reservations. There are 17 large and 21 small beer tents at Theresienwiese. The tent tables typically have seats for 6-8 people, who are served beer and Bavarian delights by the waiters. Once the tent gets full, the staff doesn’t allow outsiders. The good news is that some of the tables in the large Oktoberfest tents are free for spontaneous visitors. In the evening and in groups, however, you may not get a seat – or don’t get into the tent at all because it’s closed due to overcrowding.
- Don’t Neglect Water Intake
Though there is a variety of beers that can easily tempt someone, you do not need to forget the importance of water. The warm interiors of the tents and the overconsumption of alcohol may ruin your day simply because you are dehydrated. Make sure you swap the beer entirely with water after each stein. There are drinking water facilities across the ground. Hence, drink as much water as possible to stay hydrated and fueled for the craziest fun at Munich Oktoberfest. Carrying a personal water bottle is highly recommended.
- Don’t Steal Beer Steins
Sometimes, the people get musically inspired and take beer steins at Oktoberfest tokens from tents. It is to inform you that the city administration has put this action under the broader category of stealing. If you like Oktoberfest stein, buy a legitimate copy from souvenir stalls.
- Don’t Forget to Tip
To be quite honest, tipping is not expected in many cultures, but at Oktoberfest, you must tip your waiters and bartenders. It is reasonable to pay 10-15% tip of the total bill, depending on the tents’ policies and the quality of service provided. It is a way of thanking the “Beer Maidens” for their service and the respectful manner they maintained throughout the event.
Stay Safe at Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is super crowded throughout the fest days. You should be careful and vigilant about your surroundings. Carry your valuables safely and avoid crowds since pick-pocketers won’t take a second to shoot off with your cell phone or even the cash. Stay in touch with your friends and decide on a familiar spot to meet in case of losing one another. Though the Oktoberfest staff and police guards stay alert to such activities, you still need to care. As the grandpa says, “Prevention is better than cure.” Thus, use logic, and keep your eyes open!
Final Verdict
Oktoberfest Munich, the most celebrated festival, looks into Bavarian culture and traditions. With millions of visitors every year, it’s important to remember the dos and don’ts while celebrating the cozy ambiance at tents, savoring Bavarian delicacies, and participating in various festivities while fully respecting local customs. Embrace the festival’s spirit by wearing traditional alpine outfits.
Image: Unsplash, Ian Kelsall
