It’s the world’s largest beer festival and, on the face of it, the rules would appear to be quite simple – turn up and drink.
But for Munich’s Oktoberfest (which has actually already started), there are some do’s and don’ts worth knowing about, as we discovered when we spoke to Lonely Planet’s destination editor for central and eastern Europe, Sandie Kestell.
Here, she reveals why you should always bring cash, how to avoid getting on the wrong side of locals – and why you should never visit ‘puke hill’ in the evening.
It is not all about drinking
Sandie, who lived in Germany for more than six years and has visited Oktoberfest as a tourist, says: ‘One of the more surprising things is that there is a huge amusements aspect to it.
Lonely Planet’s destination editor for central and eastern Europe, Sandie Kestell, reveals do’s and don’ts for Oktoberfest. One is that there’s lots to do besides drinking
‘There are bumper cars, roller coasters, booths and games for adults and children alike. You don’t have to drink and there are lots of things to do during the daytime.
‘There is a family area with baby changing facilities and space for younger children to play. You can bring your own food, which is great for little ones.
‘There is something for everyone whether that be kids or adults. Anyone can go to Oktoberfest – it’s not just your typical group of friends going for lots of beers!’
You will be thrown into Bavarian culture
Germany fan Sandie says: ‘There is lots of traditional food on offer’
For Sandie, the best thing about Oktoberfest is the festival atmosphere and the Bavarian culture.
She says: ‘A lot of local people will wear traditional costumes. The dirndl is a traditional Bavarian dress worn by women. They are all very elaborate and different.
‘Seeing that culture brought to life was my favourite thing. I think it’s quite striking for people when they see it because people may not know that they are still a part of modern Bavaria.
‘There is lots of traditional food on offer. I would recommend trying Bismarck, which is a very thick pancake chopped up with icing sugar and apple sauce!’
Dancing on tables is a no and avoid puke hill at night!
‘Rowdy behaviour or dancing on the tables will get you thrown out,’ reveals Sandie
As with all festivals, there are rules to follow.
Sandie says: ‘There is always music on so singing and dancing are expected. But rowdy behaviour or dancing on the tables will get you thrown out.
‘There are horror stories of “puke hill” where people go after drinking a few too many beers. In my opinion it’s a little overplayed.
‘It’s around the back of a few of the tents and you do get people who are a little worse for wear visiting it in the later evenings.
‘During the daytime it can be a normal area where people sit in the sun on nice days!
‘I would always say do as the locals do. If you don’t see anyone else doing it, don’t start doing it yourself.’
It is very accessible – but make sure to book!
Most people are unaware that entry to the event itself is free.
Sandie says: ‘You only pay when you start buying beers or going on rides.
‘You can go in free for a look around, which makes it very accessible.
‘If you do want to take part in any activities make sure to book ahead as it’s a huge festival.
‘Booking tables in tents ahead of time is a really smart thing to do, especially if you’re part of a group.
‘In Germany, cash is king, much more so than in the UK and Ireland. It’s always best to carry change for buying beers or paying for rides. It’s not such a tap-happy culture as Britain has!’
Beer is a common language
At the festival, they are very used to visitors from all over the world.
Sandie says: ‘A lot of the menus will have English translations and pictures.
‘The lucky news is the German word for beer is bier, which is pronounced the same way as the English!’
