The Ultimate Guide to Oktoberfest

While places all around the world attempt to celebrate Oktoberfest, nothing beats the authentic German festival! The most famous version of this event is held in Munich, Germany.

It's never too early to start planning your next getaway! If Oktoberfest is high on your bucket list, then check out the festival dates below so you can be sure not to miss out.

Oktoberfest is the ultimate drinking celebration, so you'll probably be spending the festival with a German Bier in hand. 

The festival is set up with massive tents, so the event can occur rain or shine.

The tents are attractions unto themselves, as each differs in size, décor, and the crowds that they attract.

The best way to experience Oktoberfest is to hop between tents, especially since entry is free to the grounds, the tents and the tables – you only pay for what you consume.

The largest of the tents is Hofbräu-Festzelt, one of the most recognizable ones at Oktoberfest. It is also tends to be on the louder and rowdier side, as it often attracts crowds of young students.

If you are a student or in your early 20s or 30s, then the Hippodrom is another tent that is popular with your age group.

However, if you're a little bit more mature, or older and hoping to avoid the majority of rowdy young adults, then opt for the nautically-themed Fischer-Vroni tent - where there is still plenty of activity to enjoy.

If you're taking your family along for the fun at Oktoberfest, then your best bet is to head to the Augustiner tent. It's the city’s oldest brewery and is known to host events and games for the whole family to enjoy.

Always drink responsibly.

With this German festival comes a lot of good, authentic food! Many of Munich’s top vendors set up shop on the fairgrounds, so you will not have to wander far to grab an authentic wurst or German bretzel (aka pretzel).

The food offerings are very convenient and are usually fairly priced, typically ranging anywhere from $5 to $15.

While there are vendors all throughout the grounds, different tents offer certain food specialties, so if you are looking to dine out on something in particular, make sure you grab a seat before the tent fills up.

The Schützen-Festzelt tent is a favourite among Münchners, where the special dish is a roast suckling pig, sauced up with beer.

On the other hand, the Ochsenbraterie tent has a tradition dating back more than 130 years of roasting a full ox on a spit, and plaiting that with sides of vegetables and potatoes.

If you aren't all the fussed on the traditionally rowdy Oktoberfest parties, then stop by the fairgrounds during the week for a calmer experience and to try the special weekday lunchtime food menus.

Wondering how to get around Europe? Find out more about a Eurail pass here.

Oktoberfest is a celebration of Bavarian culture, so you will see people in all sorts of outfits. Since autumn is usually a wet season for Germany, make sure you pack water-proof gear, wear lots of layers, and dress for comfort—Oktoberfest can be a very long day.

However, do not be surprised to see many locals dressed in trachten - the traditional German garb.

Men often sport suspender leather trousers and women wear the classic Bavarian dresses designed in bright prints and colours.

For visitors, investing in one of these traditional outfits is often worth the price, as it doubles as a unique memento to remind you of your time in Germany and experience at Oktoberfest.

Since Oktoberfest is one of the busiest times of the year in Munich, booking in advance is definitely recommended.

If you are hoping to stay close to the Oktoberfest action, making for easy arrival and departure, then book a room near Munich’s central train station in Marien Square, near the Old Town centre. Some wonderful accommodations in this area include the Bayerischer Hof and the Louis Hotel.

Since the price of accommodation sky-rockets during Oktoberfest season, if you are on the hunt for a more economical stay, try to book a room at Motel One München-Sendlinger Tor for close-by quarters that are budget friendly.

If a trip for Oktoberfest ends up being a last minute adventure, finding a place to stay close to grounds will be more difficult.

However, many hotels in the surrounding Munich area are prepared for the Oktoberfest guests with their own beer gardens, and they often have public transportation options mapped out for guests.

Oktoberfest is an incredible experience and loads of fun! This festival is a great way to experience German culture and food, and to celebrate such an interesting country.