There are some things in life you have to experience once and since the big weekend is fast approaching, I’m here to say that Oktoberfest is no exception to that once-in-a-lifetime experience! With beer, pretzels, endless dirndls and lederhosen, it’s definitely a charming and one-of-a-kind festival.
I had a chance to meet up with a group of friends years ago for my own weekend in Munich and the fun, outgoing atmosphere did not disappoint. I went for the opening ceremony and I could not believe how many people came to this event. There were so many massive tents filled with people singing, dancing, laughing…
All I had wished for is to have a traditional Bavarian dirndl. Oktoberfest was more of a fashion event with each dirndl and lederhosen combo better than the other. I may have even felt a little underdressed showing up in jeans and solid top among beautifully detailed outfits around me, but it was still fun, nonetheless.
Oktoberfest Tips:
- Book your accommodation early. This is Munich’s biggest events of the year and, as with any event, rooms and accommodations go fast! Some people even book months in advance, so make sure to plan ahead.
- Buy the outfit. Want to look like the locals and feel like you’re part of the fashion show and festival? Then get yourself a proper outfit. Both men and women can purchase outfits from shops like these depending on the budget:
- Alpenmädel
- Gottseidank
- AngerMaier
- Bavaria Lederhosen
- C&A Dirndl
- C&A Lederhosen
- Loden-Frey
- Steindl Trachten
- K&L Rupert
- Galeria Kaufhof in Marienplatz Square is great if you want to shop while visiting Munich. Just be aware that your selections may be picked through at times.
- Extra tip: Whatever you do, please to do not purchase a halloween costume and think it’ll go over very well.
- The position of the knot on the dirndl indicates: Left hand side: Single, Right-hand side: Married, Middle front: Virgin, Middle back: Widow
- Munich is beautiful. Make sure to also see what else it has to offer .
- Book long-distance train tickets in advance. There will be crowds, so be prepared with delays on public transit.
- Eat the food. You cannot make your trip to Munich complete if you don’t visit Munich’s oldest beer hall for some traditional food and beer. Visit Hofbraeuhaus and take in the unique experience.
- Try a boiled pork knuckle served with mustard, potato dumplings, soup to warm up and a side of traditional salad or sauerkraut
So as you can see, I enjoyed myself, just as thousands of people do annually. After my visit to Munich’s Oktoberfest, nothing else ever came close, so I hope you can also experience and enjoy this once.
Cheers! x