It’s Oktoberfest season, and the festivities are underway in Munich, Germany. This vibrant 16-to-18-day long festival runs each year from late September to the first weekend in October, drawing millions of visitors from around the globe.
What began over 200 years ago as a royal wedding celebration has grown into the world’s largest folk festival. While there are countless Oktoberfest-themed events worldwide, nothing quite compares to the original “Wiesn” experience in Munich.
Whether this is your first time joining the celebration or you’re a seasoned attendee, a little preparation goes a long way to making the most of your trip. Here’s what you need to know for a memorable and smooth Oktoberfest experience this year.
The History Behind Oktoberfest
Once upon a time on October 12, 1810, Crown Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese.
The townspeople of Munich were invited to attend festivities held on the fields in front of the city – this place was locally known as “Wies’n”, and is also why Oktoberfest is nicknamed “Wiesn” in Germany.
While there are plenty of Oktoberfest activities in cities across the world, nothing beats the original.
No matter if you’re a local that frequents every Oktoberfest or a first-time attendee, there’s sure to be something in this guide to help you make the most of your Oktoberfest trip.
10 Essential Tips to Make the Most of Your Oktoberfest Trip
1. It’s not a sprint…
Oktoberfest is a marathon – you’ll be drinking for most of the day, so there’s no need to rush things. Rather pace yourself – because those Bavarian beers are strong, and if you’re going to be drinking a few liters, you’ll want to take this next tip seriously. And naturally, don’t forget to hydrate as the day goes on – you’ll thank yourself for it later.
2. Get there early
Most of the tents open at 10 AM during the week and 9 AM on the weekends and close at 10:30 pm – apart from the Käfer tent, which stays open till 1 am. Make sure you head to this tent early on in the evening if you plan to end your Oktoberfest trip in the early hours of the morning. But as a general rule of thumb, try to be early to avoid fighting for tables.
If you don’t have a reservation, and you’re just winging it, if you’re not there by midday, your chances of finding a table decrease significantly. Avoid the times when they switch reservations. All the people that need to leave are now looking for a free table, and competition is fierce.
3. Tent hopping is not a must
It’s a good idea to plan which tent(s) you want to visit in advance. While they all offer unique experiences, the differences won’t be that drastic. So, there’s no need to be picky, just find a tent you like and stay there. However, tent hopping can be more fun if you have some energy to spare.
You can find comprehensive guides to each of the tents online. For instance, head to the Augustiner-Festhalle tent to experience more traditional music and decorations – it’s a popular favorite among locals.
4. Have a meet-up point
The grounds are huge, and the festivities are easy to get swept up in. So if you’re there with friends, it’s a good idea to agree on a meeting point. This way, if you get separated and go off to do your own thing, you can easily meet up towards the end of the night.
5. Bring cash (more than you think you’ll need)
Don’t bother with buying tokens, cash is king in the beer tents. Keep your life and the server’s life simple, by sticking to cash. Don’t be tight-fisted, either, when it comes to tipping. If you want to be served promptly and with a smile – an initially high tip will result in the server ensuring your beer is always full. From then on, you can continue with smaller tips.
6. Eat outside the event area to save money
This is entirely up to you. But it’s a simple way to eat for cheaper.
While the tents offer incredible food, it can be much more expensive. So just walk outside, buy a cheap sausage for a few euros, and save your money for the beers. instead.
7. Take your photos early on
Before you get caught up in all the festivities, make sure that you capture your surroundings as well as photos of your group during the day when you can really see all the amazing details. The nighttime scenes are just as beautiful, so keep your camera handy then too.
8. Make new friends
Germans are friendly people, and they certainly know how to have a good time. Since most of the tents have long communal tables, shared by multiple groups, it’ll be easy to strike up a conversation with strangers nearby – don’t be shy.
Active interaction is key. Don’t worry about the language barrier either – if you need some Google Translate help, that’s fine! Just mingle and have a good time!
9. Wear the right shoes
Comfortable, closed shoes are recommended. You’ll be standing, walking, and dancing for days on end. Don’t forget that this is a beer festival – glasses are bound to break, and beer is bound to spill – and you’ll be grateful your shoes are closed when this happens.
10. Gemütlichkeit
The most important thing to do at Oktoberfest is to fully immerse yourself in it.
Whether you’re trying out local food, drinking a different type of beer, or dancing to music you don’t know, don’t be afraid to try something new – you definitely won’t regret it.
The word ‘Gemütlichkeit’ describes a spirit of warmth, friendliness, and good cheer. If you bring this with you on your visit, you’ll be sure to have a good time and make the most of your Oktoberfest trip.
Finding This Year’s Oktoberfest Highlights
Oktoberfest is packed with unique events and traditions. While the specific timings can shift slightly each year, the core highlights remain consistent. It’s always a good idea to check the official Oktoberfest website or download the official app closer to your travel dates for the most current schedule.
Here are some of the main events you can typically look forward to:
| Event Type | Description | Typical Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Entry of the Landlords | A festive parade of brewery owners and tent hosts to the festival grounds. | First Saturday morning |
| Tapping of the First Barrel | The official opening ceremony, where the Mayor taps the first beer barrel. | First Saturday at noon |
| Traditional Costume Parade | A magnificent procession showcasing traditional Bavarian attire and customs. | First Sunday morning |
| Wiesn Landlords’ Concert | A public concert featuring brass bands from all the beer tents. | Second Sunday morning |
| Traditional Gun Salutes | A final tribute to the festival, often by the Bavaria statue. | Last day of Oktoberfest |
These events create a vibrant atmosphere, but remember that popular events draw large crowds. Planning your visit to these events carefully, and arriving early, is always a good idea.
Staying Healthy and Safe at Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is an incredible celebration, but it’s also a long and physically demanding event. Being prepared for the crowds, the long days, and the Bavarian beer is key to having a good time and staying safe.
Pace Yourself
Those traditional Bavarian beers are famously strong, and the festivities can go on for hours. It’s a marathon, not a sprint.
- Mind your intake. The large steins (Maß) hold a full liter, and the beer is typically stronger than what you might be used to.
- Hydrate throughout the day. Alternate beer with water or non-alcoholic drinks. You’ll thank yourself later.
- Take breaks. Step outside the tents for some fresh air, grab a coffee, or sit down and people-watch for a while.
Navigate the Crowds Wisely
Oktoberfest draws millions, meaning dense crowds, especially inside the beer tents.
- Plan your meeting points. If you’re with a group, agree on a designated spot to meet if you get separated. Cell service can be unreliable in crowded tents.
- Stay aware of your belongings. Pickpocketing can occur in large crowds. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight.
- Use public transport. Driving after drinking is never an option. Munich’s public transport system (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses) is efficient but will be very busy during Oktoberfest. Plan your route in advance.
Dress for Comfort and Practicality
Your footwear choice can make or break your day at the Wiesn.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. You’ll be on your feet for hours, dancing, walking, and navigating potentially sticky floors where spills and broken glass are common.
- Dress in layers. September and October weather in Munich can vary from warm afternoons to cool evenings.
Know Your Healthcare Options
Even with the best planning, sometimes things don’t go as expected. Minor injuries, exhaustion, or feeling unwell can happen.
- Emergency services. In Germany, dial 112 for medical emergencies.
- Look for medical stations. There are usually first aid posts on the festival grounds.
- Accessing a doctor. If you need to see a doctor for non-emergencies but are unsure how to navigate the local healthcare system, the Air Doctor app can connect you with English-speaking doctors for video consultations, clinic visits, or even hotel visits. Having this option provides great peace of mind.
For more information visit the official Oktoberfest website.
Make sure you download the Oktoberfest app to access maps of the event, news, updates, and other important info, as well as the Air Doctor app for if you need a doctor during your trip.
In Short
Oktoberfest is a massive, exhilarating celebration. A little planning goes a long way to ensure you have a fantastic and safe experience.
Here are the key takeaways for your trip:
- Pace yourself with drinks and prioritize hydration throughout the day.
- Arrive early at the beer tents, especially if you don’t have a reservation.
- Choose a few tents to enjoy rather than trying to visit them all.
- Establish a meeting point with your group in case you get separated.
- Bring plenty of cash for ease of payment and tipping.
- Consider eating outside the main festival grounds for more affordable food options.
- Take photos early to capture the tents and atmosphere before the crowds grow.
- Embrace the “Gemütlichkeit” – be friendly and open to meeting new people.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for long days and potential spills.
- Know your healthcare options like the Air Doctor app, for peace of mind.
About The Air Doctor App
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can access medical care and receive expert medical guidance anywhere you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Transparent pricing and reviews
- Most common medical specialties, including GPs
FAQs
Oktoberfest usually runs from late September to the first weekend in October, lasting between 16 and 18 days each year.
Embrace the spirit of “Gemütlichkeit” – a feeling of warmth, friendliness, and good cheer. Being open to the experience and friendly to others will make your visit truly memorable.
While not strictly necessary, having a reservation guarantees a spot, especially during peak times. If you don’t have one, arrive early (before midday) to increase your chances of finding an available table.
