Our Top Tips and Advice for Oktoberfest for the First Time

Current Thoughts

Episode 29: Top 10 Tips and Advice for Oktoberfest For The First Time

00:00 / 00:27:46

Hosts: Jay and Dee Topic: Top 10 Tips and Advice for Your First Trip to Oktoberfest in Germany

In this episode, we look back on our recent trip to Germany and share the essential lessons we learned during our first visit to the world-famous Oktoberfest. From navigating the crowds to embracing local traditions, we count down our top 10 tips to help you have a full and authentic experience.

The Top 10 Countdown

Rank	J’s Tips	D’s Tips
10	Avoid Crowds: Visit on weekdays and arrive as early as possible to enjoy the grounds before the evening rush.	Understand the Culture: It’s more than just beer; it’s a festival with food, music, history, and social rules.
9	Skip Reservations: Small groups (under 6) don’t need them and will find it easier to meet and sit with new people.	Visit “Oide Wiesn” (Old Oktoberfest): Experience the vintage part of the park with historical rides and games for 4 euros.
8	Eat a Bratwurst Sandwich: A classic German experience to enjoy while walking the festival grounds.	Ride the Ferris Wheel: For 10 euros, get a massive perspective and beautiful views of the entire festival.
7	Sit with Locals: Be persistent in finding a seat in a beer tent; sitting with friendly locals is a true treasure.	Try a Giant Pretzel: They are fresh, soft, salty, and very affordable.
6	Locate the Restrooms: They are outside the tents; knowing where they are helps you avoid getting lost or disoriented.	Chocolate Covered Fruit: Try strawberries or apples on a skewer—it’s a simple, delicious, and easy-to-eat treat.
5	Drink an Augustiner Beer: This brewery still serves beer from traditional wooden casks.	Immerse Yourself: Even if you don’t drink, sit at a table to enjoy the global conversation and atmosphere.
4	Give a “Prost”: Use the German word for “cheers” to celebrate health and connection with those around you.	Ride the Roller Coaster: It brings the festival to life; Dee recommends waiting for the front seat!
3	Try a Radler: This half-beer, half-lemonade drink is delicious and helps you pace yourself.	Plan for the Weather: Bring an umbrella or jacket; conditions can change from beautiful to rainy very quickly.
2	Watch the “Teufelsrad” (Devil’s Wheel): A classic attraction where people try to stay on a spinning disc while being “attacked.”	Wear Traditional Attire: Wearing a Dirndl or Lederhosen adds to the experience. Consider renting if buying is too pricey.
1	Stand on the Benches: Join the crowd in singing and toast with people at your table for a true bucket-list moment.	BRING CASH: Many places do not take cards, and servers in the beer tents strictly take cash only.

Key Takeaways & Bonus Advice

Bonus Tip: For a cheaper meal, try traditional dishes (like pork knuckle) at the brewery’s city restaurants rather than inside the festival tents. ²⁵
Tipping: Be sure to tip your waitresses; they often work the festival on a contract/tip-only basis. ²⁶
Budgeting: Oktoberfest can be expensive. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and always bring more cash than you think you’ll need. ²⁷