Oktoberfest is just a few months away and that means beer enthusiasts from around the world are gearing up to visit Munich during the days of Weis’n. After all, it is the largest beer festival in the world and what more is there to Oktoberfest than drinking all the livelong day? In fact, there’s a lot to it if you do it properly. Oktoberfest has a rich and deep history entwined with the Bavarian culture which makes it so much more than just a place to drink up and have a good time (though it is that as well). So let’s take a look at how you can celebrate Oktoberfest properly.
Experience the Culture
Oktoberfest is a celebration that stems from the wedding of King Ludwig to Princess Therese in 1810 in Bavaria. Since the event started as a celebration of the royal wedding of the ruler of the region, so the culture has shaped how it was celebrated then and how it is celebrated today.
Not wearing the traditional dress of Lederhosen and dirndl dress, for example, is considered offensive by the locals. It displays a lack of understanding and appreciation of the Bavarian culture by the visitors. As such, you need to wear a good quality Lederhosen to get into the true spirit of Oktoberfest. Only then will you be welcomed by the locals and truly experience what the Weis’n is all about.
Tour all the Tents
The beer tents are what make the Oktoberfest so special. Millions of people visit sixteen of the largest and oldest beer tents in the history of Bavaria. They first appeared on the scene in 1896, and have been a tradition ever since. Each tent exhibits a special atmosphere and provides the visitors with a unique experience.
Since the festival lasts for 16 to 18 days, there is plenty of time for you to visit all the tents at least once. This will give you a great exposure to the Bavarian culture and show you how certain aspects of life differ in this part of the world.
Taste the Food
The food is a great way to get to experience the local culture. The delicious veal, duck, chicken and ox meals are served for lunch and dinner. The sausages and eggs for breakfast and the pretzels outside every tent are a must have for any visitor to Oktoberfest. Beyond their divine taste, you can learn a lot about the local customs from how the people cook their food and how they eat it.
All in all, Oktoberfest is a great way to experience a whole other culture in just a few days while having the time of your life. But don’t think this is all there is to it, there is so much more you can do to make the most of your Oktoberfest in Munich.
