Oktoberfest 101: What to Expect at the World’s Biggest Beer Festival
Oktoberfest is more than just a beer festival—it’s a celebration of Bavarian culture that has been bringing people together since 1810. Held annually in Munich, Germany, it attracts millions of visitors from around the world who come to enjoy the lively atmosphere, traditional food, and, of course, world-class beer. Here’s everything you need to know about what to expect when attending Oktoberfest.
A Little History
Oktoberfest began with a royal celebration on October 12, 1810, to commemorate the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig. The citizens of Munich were invited to join the festivities, which were held in a large meadow just outside the city gates, now called Theresienwiese (“Theresa’s Meadow”) in honor of the bride. The event was so well-received that it was decided to make it an annual celebration.
Over the years, Oktoberfest evolved. The original festival was focused on horse races, parades, and agricultural displays, which are still part of the event today, but the introduction of beer stands and later beer tents in the late 19th century reshaped the festival into what we recognize today. By the mid-20th century, beer had become the main attraction, and the festival expanded to include massive beer halls and carnival-like attractions.
The event has only been canceled a few times, most notably during wartime and in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making it a strong tradition that has stood the test of time. Despite these interruptions, Oktoberfest has grown to attract over 6 million visitors annually, from locals to tourists from around the globe. Today, it remains a cherished part of Bavarian culture, a symbol of hospitality, and a celebration of all things beer and Bavaria.
The Atmosphere
When you arrive at Oktoberfest, the first thing that hits you is the electric, lively atmosphere. As you walk through the gates of Theresienwiese, you’re greeted by the sight of massive beer tents, colorful rides, food stands, and crowds of people, many of whom are dressed in traditional Bavarian outfits. The festival’s sprawling grounds cover more than 100 acres, filled with over 30 beer tents, dozens of rides, games, and food stalls selling everything from pretzels to roasted almonds.
The air is filled with the sounds of music—each tent has its own live band playing a mixture of traditional German oompah tunes and popular sing-alongs. Even if you don’t speak German, you’ll find yourself joining in with the crowd to the infectious energy of songs like “Ein Prosit,” which encourages everyone to raise their mugs and cheer.
Walking through the festival, you’ll see people laughing, dancing on benches, and raising their Maßkrüge (beer mugs) high. The camaraderie at Oktoberfest is unlike any other festival; strangers quickly become friends as you share a table, toast with a hearty “Prost!” (cheers), and swap stories from your respective homelands. It’s common to see people spontaneously breaking out into song, linking arms for a group cheer, or participating in the playful antics encouraged by the festival’s jovial spirit.
Outside the beer tents, Oktoberfest offers a family-friendly carnival vibe. Ferris wheels, roller coasters, and classic carnival games light up the grounds, drawing visitors of all ages. While the beer tents are central to the experience, there’s also an entire side to Oktoberfest that’s perfect for families and non-drinkers—offering something for everyone.
Another important part of the atmosphere is the sense of tradition. Locals often dress in Trachten—lederhosen for men and dirndls for women—which adds an authentic Bavarian feel to the festivities. You’ll notice that Bavarian customs are woven into every aspect of the festival, from the parades to the way beer is served by Kellner (waitstaff) who carry ten or more beer mugs at once!
In recent years, the festival has also become a global melting pot, with international visitors making up a significant part of the crowd. It’s not unusual to hear a variety of languages as you stroll through the festival grounds, which adds to the unique cultural blend Oktoberfest has cultivated.
The Beer Tents
Oktoberfest is synonymous with beer tents, each run by one of Munich’s major breweries. Expect to see big names like Paulaner (my personal favorite), Hofbräu, and Spaten represented. A little trivia…only beer brewed within Munich’s city limits and meeting the Reinheitsgebot (German Beer Purity Law) is allowed to be served. Each tent has its own charm—Hofbräu Festzelt is famous for its international crowd, while Augustiner is beloved for its more traditional, local vibe.
Beers are served in Maß (one-liter mugs), and they’re much stronger than your average brew, so pace yourself! Most tents also offer live music, from traditional oompah bands to modern tunes, keeping the crowd energized.
Food and Snacks
You can’t attend Oktoberfest without trying some classic Bavarian food. Expect hearty dishes like roasted chicken, pork knuckle (Schweinshaxe), sausages, and giant pretzels. Don’t miss the chance to try Obatzda (a Bavarian cheese spread) with a fresh pretzel or a stein of beer. For those with a sweet tooth, there are plenty of traditional desserts, like Apfelstrudel and Lebkuchen (gingerbread hearts).
Essential Tips for First Timers
1. Plan Ahead: Reservations are a must if you want a seat in a beer tent, especially in the evenings or weekends. Alternatively, try visiting during the day for a more relaxed experience.
2. Dress the Part: Wearing traditional clothing (lederhosen or dirndls) will not only help you fit in but also enhance the festive vibe.
3. Know Your Limits: Oktoberfest beer is stronger than most, and with one-liter servings, it’s easy to overdo it. Drink water and take breaks between beers.
4. Cash is always King: Most places don’t accept credit cards, so bring plenty of cash for beer, food, and souvenirs.
5. Getting There: Munich’s public transportation system is excellent. The U-Bahn (subway) stops directly at Theresienwiese, where the festival is held. Avoid driving if possible due to limited parking and heavy crowds.
Oktoberfest is a one-of-a-kind experience, combining Bavarian tradition, great beer, and lively festivities. Whether a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, it’s important to soak in the atmosphere and make the most of your visit. From the iconic beer tents to the delicious food and vibrant crowd, Oktoberfest offers something for everyone.
