The First Timer’s Guide to Oktoberfest
Headed to Oktoberfest for the first time? From what to wear to how to score a seat (and a stein), here’s your ultimate guide to doing Munich’s biggest party the right way.
So, you’re finally knocking off your top bucket list item and heading to one of the biggest cultural festivals in the world. Whether you’re in it for the beer, the vibes, or the dirndls, Oktoberfest in Munich is an experience that should absolutely be on your bucket list. Here’s everything you need to know before you cheers your first Maß (that’s a one-liter beer mug, btw).
When to go
Weekdays are key, trust us. Monday through Thursday is your sweet spot, Friday basically counts as a weekend at Oktoberfest, and weekends are packed. Like elbow-to-elbow, “is that my arm or yours?” kind of packed (worse than Disney in peak summer). Go on a weekday and you’ll actually have room to breathe (and maybe even snag a seat in a tent without selling your soul to a reservation months in advance).
What to wear
- For the guys: Lederhosen. Shorts, suspenders, and a plaid shirt. Classic Bavarian drip.
- For the girls: A dirndl. That iconic dress with the apron and bodice. (You will look SNATCHED).
Important note on dirndls: Tie your apron bow on the left if you’re single and on the right if you’re taken. (Front center means you’re a waitress, and back center means you’re widowed, so… choose wisely.)
Where to get your outfit
- Rent: You can rent for around €35 at Bavarian Outfitters (the most popular place), just go early. The line wraps around the building some mornings.
- Buy: Dirndls are sold all around Munich (even at the airport) for around €150–€200. Try Trachten Rausch for cheaper options or Daller Tracht for something classic.
Where to go (aka the best tents)
Schottenhamel: My favorite. This is the tent where the mayor taps the first keg to officially start Oktoberfest.
Hofbräu-Festzelt: The most international (and rowdy) crowd. Think global party energy.
Augustiner-Festhalle: More local, calmer vibes, and it serves Munich’s oldest beer. A classic for a reason.
Don’t just go for the tents
Oktoberfest is more than just drinking: it’s basically a giant county fair. Go play!
Teufelsrad (devil’s wheel): Try to stay on a spinning disc while the crowd heckles you.
Toboggan: A moving walkway that launches you onto a slide. Everyone falls. It’s a great watch.
Kettenflieger Bayern Tower: A swing ride with the best view of the entire festival grounds.
How to get a seat (and a drink)
You can’t order beer unless you have a seat. Seriously, no seat, no stein.
Reservations: Big groups (8–10 people) can reserve tables months in advance.
Walk-ins: Go early, especially on weekends. On weekdays, you can roll in a little later. Look for unreserved tables and politely ask to join. Once you sit, a server will come by for your order (cash only!).
Must eats
- Pretzel: Obviously.
- Roasted chicken: The best thing you’ll ever taste. Period.
- Würstl: A German glizzy. Get one.
- Käsespätzle: German mac and cheese. Need I say more?
Tips from the mom friend
- Drink water. The beer here is brewed specially for Oktoberfest, it’s stronger than you think.
- Eat before and during. Pretzels are your pace car.
- Don’t steal the steins. They check bags, and fines are not fun.
- Go with friends, or make new ones. It’s basically impossible not to.
Super pro tip: Go with Ultimate Break Planning Oktoberfest can be a logistical nightmare (and that’s before the jet lag hits). Choose one of these tours and all you have to worry about is which tent to hit first (plus, we get you reservations to the best tents that include a beer and a meal). We handle the flights, hotels, and local guides, you just show up ready to have the best time ever.
At the end of the day, Oktoberfest is just good vibes. You’ll eat, drink, dance on tables, and probably make friends you’ll never see again but will still follow on Instagram forever. Just go, have fun, and remember, pretzels are your best friend.
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