Oktoberfest is a world-famous beer festival with an estimated 7 million people attending every year. The majority of those are German, with a share of almost 85%, while the remaining 15% are foreigners. If you are among those who are attending the event from another country, you must know a few Oktoberfest tips. Do not book a full two-week stay. Most locals only visit the festival for a day or two. So, plan smart and save yourself from burnout.
Wearing a traditional, authentic dirndl or going for the classic Oktoberfest Lederhosen men typically wear—with respect and attention to detail—is also part of the festivities. Do not show up in jeans, shorts, or cheap Bavarian costumes, as it may cause a faux pas. I prefer visiting the festival during working days, as they are more relaxed and budget-friendly. And whatever you do, do not just wing it—the tents, the transport, and the timing all work best when you have a plan.
Let’s dive into everything foreign visitors need to know—how to dress, where to sit, what to eat, how to act, and how to avoid the rookie mistakes no one warns you about.
Plan with Reservations and Accommodations
People having more fun at the festival are the ones who planned for it. A little prep will go a long way if you are flying in from abroad. Skip the chaos and roll in like you’ve done this before. Here’s what you need to sort out before you land in Munich:
- Book your accommodation months in advance. Prices increase closer to the fest dates, and places near Theresienwiese fill up first.
- Reserve a table in large beer tents if you are going with a group. No reservation means long lines and no guaranteed seat.
- Learn how to use public transport in Munich. Do not rely on taxis or ride apps as they are expensive.
- Check the tent schedules and offerings to choose the one that matches your vibe, as each of them has a different atmosphere.
- Download the official Oktoberfest app for maps, tent info, and updates in real time.
- Plan for weekdays if you want a more relaxed experience, as weekends are wild and packed.
Dress Up with Authenticity and Cultural Respect
Showing up in the right Oktoberfest costume is about showing respect for Bavarian culture. Locals dress traditionally, and they can tell when you did not even try. Dressing up is half the fun, and it totally changes the way people treat you at the event. Here is how to dress up for Oktoberfest:
- Wear an authentic dirndl dress or lederhosen and avoid a cheap Halloween costume. You will become a laughing stock if you do so.
- Dirndls for women should hit around the knee. Avoid wearing miniskirts as it is a family-friendly event.
- Tie your apron bow correctly. Right side if you are taken, left side if you are single, center if you are a virgin, and back if you are a widow.
- Men should wear comfortable Lederhosen made of authentic leather.
- Traditional Bavarian shirts are checkered or solid white. Avoid wearing graphic tees with your lederhosen.
- Do not forget the accessories. Hats, vests, wool socks, and Haferlschuhe complete the look.
- Bring a light jacket or shawl for cooler evenings, especially late September.
Follow the Etiquette for Oktoberfest
Even if you are a foreign visitor, you must attend the festival with a full cultural spirit and respect. There are some unspoken rules that locals live by. Knowing how to act at Oktoberfest is important if you want to blend in. Here is how to keep it classy and festive:
- Always make eye contact when you toast, say Prost, and clink mugs at the bottom.
- Stand on the benches to sing and cheer. Never stand on the table tops otherwise you will get kicked out.
- Tip your server. They are fast, efficient, and keep your mug full, so they deserve it.
- Be patient if the service takes a while. Tents are packed, and staff are managing thousands of guests.
- Do not bring your own drinks or snacks as outside food is not allowed at the festival.
- Know your limit. The beer is strong (about 6%) and served by the liter. It hits harder than you think.
- Don’t try to steal a mug (Maßkrug). It is tempting, but security is tight, and getting caught is not worth it.
Mistakes Foreigners Should Avoid at Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is wild, fun, and full of surprises. But if you walk in unprepared, it can go downhill fast. A lot of visitors make the same mistakes every year. So let’s save you the trouble and embarrassment with a quick list of what not to do at Wiesn:
- Don’t show up in a fake or offensive costume.
- Don’t expect to pay with your card everywhere. Bring cash as lots of places are cash-only.
- Don’t try to order just a beer. Each tent serves one specific brewery and you get what they have.
- Don’t drink blindly. Oktoberfest beers are strong, and one Maß is like drinking three regular beers.
- Don’t take someone’s reserved seat. If it’s marked, it is taken, even if no one’s sitting there yet.
- Don’t forget to eat. Beer on an empty stomach may force you to leave the tents early.
- Don’t be loud and obnoxious. Yes, it is a party, but there’s still a vibe of respect and tradition.
- Avoid wearing flip-flops or open shoes. Between the crowds and spilled drinks, your feet will suffer.
- Don’t show up late and expect to walk into a tent. Come early or reserve ahead, especially on weekends.
- Don’t steal mugs. Everyone thinks about it, security is ready for it, and fines are no joke.
Final Words
Oktoberfest is a feeling. It’s a loud, joyful, beer-filled tradition wrapped in centuries of culture. If you come prepared, it can be the experience of a lifetime. Whether you are clinking mugs with strangers, dancing on benches, or simply enjoying the Bavarian vibes, what matters most is that you respect the roots. So dress the part, learn the customs, skip the mistakes, and experience the fun with wide eyes and a ready smile. Prost to doing Oktoberfest the right way, like a true insider, not just a tourist with a beer in hand.
