Oktoberfest is one festival that is on many traveler’s bucket list. Known as ‘world’s largest beer festival’, this 200-year-old fest is made up of 14 gigantic tents, 21 smaller ones, and a grand joyous fair. The fest attracts beer-lovers like a moth to fire, serving more than 6 million liters of the world’s best tasting beer. Using a Trip Planner, plan to visit Munich, Germany, towards the end of September and be a part of the most opulent festival in the world. Here are a few things that you must know if you are visiting the Oktoberfest for the first time.
1.Where is the Oktoberfest held?
The original Oktoberfest is held in Munich, Germany. The gala fest is hosted on the official grounds of the Munich Oktoberfest called Theresienwiese or Festwiese as the locals call it. Deriving its local name ‘Weisen’ from this very ground, you will hardly hear the Munich-ites calling the festival as Oktoberfest.
2. At what time does the Oktoberfest start?
Although called Oktoberfest, this grand festival usually begins in the last week of September. The Oktoberfest dates for 2018 are September 22 to October 7. The Oktoberfest hours on the opening day are from noon to 10:30 PM. On weekdays it will be held between 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM, and on Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays, you will be able to enjoy it from 9:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
3. Do I need tickets to attend Oktoberfest?
Nope. Oktoberfest is absolutely free for one and all. The beer tents primarily make the Oktoberfest and you need not purchase any tickets to enter them. However, you may reserve tables in the tent well-in-advance for a group of 8-10 people.
4. How much does Oktoberfest cost?
While entrance to Oktoberfest is free, it is no cheap festival. You will have to shell out a few extra bucks than usual to enjoy the beer and meals here. A liter of beer will cost you about 10 euros. While most of the full meals are priced between 12 euros to 15 euros, you may grab a snack or a small meal for 5 euros. You must try the jumbo pretzel which may cost you about 6 euros. Venture out of the tents and you can buy alcohol (not beer) for about 8 euros.
5. Are credit/debit cards accepted at Oktoberfest?
No. Your debit or credit card will not be accepted anywhere in Oktoberfest. Better carry ample of euro bills as well as coins. Set a budget of how much you would want to spend a day and double the amount. Since everything is so expensive at Oktoberfest, you are bound to spend more. Although there are cash machines (ATMs) at the site, there are long queues to draw money and you would rather be spending your time in the fun beer tents.
6. Should I tip the beer wench serving me in Oktoberfest?
Tipping is not compulsory in Oktoberfest but is highly recommended. The beer wench serving you will give you and your table quite the attention needed if you tip well. Typically, a tip of 1-2 euros is given per drink or a handsome tip at the beginning is enough for the beer wench to make frequent turns to your table.
7. Can I attend Oktoberfest even if I am a non-beer drinker?
If you are planning on not having beer at the Oktoberfest, then don’t enter the beer tents. Besides having beer in the tent, there is loads to do at the Oktoberfest. There are numerous stalls selling souvenirs, parades are a treat to watch, and the rides are enough to get the adrenaline rushing through your veins. If you wish to try anything other than beer, then a variety of alcoholic drinks are available outside the tents.
Besides these 7 basic things to know on your first visit to Oktoberfest, dressing the traditional way, using public transport, pre-deciding which tents to visit, wearing comfy footwear, and knowing your drinking limit are other tips to follow. Now, plan a trip to Munich, Germany, and be ready to have the best time of your life at the Oktoberfest.
