It’s the world’s largest beer festival, and at first glance the rules seem pretty simple: show up and drink.
But for Munich Oktoberfest beer festival (which has actually already started), there are some dos and don’ts worth knowing, as we discovered when we spoke with Lonely Planet Guide Destination editor for Central and Eastern Europe, Sandie Kestell.
Here, she reveals why you should always carry cash, how to avoid offending the locals, and why you should never visit Puke Hill at night.
It’s not all about drinking
Sandie, who lived in Germany for over six years and visited Oktoberfest as a tourist, says: ‘One of the most surprising things is that there is a huge entertainment component to it.
Lonely Planet’s Destinations Editor for Central and Eastern Europe, Sandie Kestell, reveals the do’s and don’ts of Oktoberfest. One of them is that there’s plenty to do besides drink.
‘There are bumper cars, roller coasters, stalls and games for adults and children. Drinking is not required and there are plenty of things to do during the day.
‘There is a family area with a baby changing table and space for little ones to play. You can bring your own food, which is great for little ones.
“There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a kid or an adult. Anyone can go to Oktoberfest, it’s not just your typical group of friends who go out and drink a bunch of beers!”
You will be immersed in Bavarian culture.
German fan Sandie says: “There is a lot of traditional food on offer”
For Sandie, the best thing about Oktoberfest is the festive atmosphere and Bavarian culture.
She says: ‘A lot of local people wear traditional costumes. The dirndl is a traditional Bavarian dress worn by women. They are all very elaborate and different.
“Seeing that culture come to life was what I loved the most. I think it’s very impactful for people when they see it, because they might not know that they’re still part of modern Bavaria.
“There is a lot of traditional food on offer. I recommend trying the Bismarck, which is a very thick pancake chopped with icing sugar and apple sauce.”
Dancing on tables is prohibited and prevents vomiting on the hill at night!
‘Loud behaviour or dancing on tables can get you kicked out,’ Sandie reveals
As with all festivals, there are rules to follow.
Sandie says: ‘There’s always music playing so you’re expected to sing and dance. But if you’re rowdy or dance on the tables you’ll be kicked out.
‘There are horror stories about ‘vomit hill’, which people go on after drinking a few too many beers. In my opinion, this is a bit of an exaggeration.
‘It’s located behind some of the tents and there are usually a few tired people visiting it at night.
‘During the day it can be a normal area where people sit in the sun on nice days.
“I always say that you should do what the locals are doing. If you don’t see anyone else doing it, don’t start doing it yourself.”
It’s very accessible, but make sure to book!
Most people are unaware that entry to the event is free.
Sandie says: ‘You only pay when you start buying beers or riding rides.
‘You can get in for free to have a look around, which makes it very accessible.
‘If you want to take part in any activities, make sure you book in advance as it’s a huge festival.
‘Reserving tables in tents in advance is a very smart decision, especially if you are 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 to buy beer or pay for travel. There isn’t as much of a friendly tap culture as there is in Britain!’
Beer is a common language
The festival is very used to receiving visitors from all over the world.
Sandie says: ‘Many of the menus will have English translations and pictures.
‘The good news is that the German word for beer is bier, which is pronounced the same as in English.’