Lonely Planet’s travel expert reveals five surprising things about Oktoberfest (including what happens if you dance on the tables and the dangers of ‘vomit hill’)
It’s the largest beer festival in the world and the rules seem pretty simple at first glance: show up and drink.
But for Munich Octoberfest (which has actually already started), there are a number of do’s and don’ts, as we discovered when we started with Lonely Planet films Destination Editor for Central and Eastern Europe, Sandie Kestell.
In this article she explains why you should always carry cash, how to avoid running into locals and why you should never go to ‘puke hill’ at night.
It’s not just about drinking
Sandie, who has lived in Germany for over six years and has visited Oktoberfest as a tourist, says: ‘One of the most surprising things is that there is a huge entertainment aspect to it.
Sandie Kestell, Lonely Planet’s Destination Editor for Central and Eastern Europe, reveals the dos and don’ts of Oktoberfest. One of them is that there’s a lot more to do than just drink
‘There are bumper cars, roller coasters, booths and games for both adults and children. You don’t have to drink and there is plenty to do during the day.
‘There is a family area with baby changing facilities and space for younger children to play. You can bring your own food which is great for the little ones.
‘There is something for everyone, whether it’s kids or adults. Everyone can go to Oktoberfest – it’s not just your average group of friends going for lots of beer!’
You will be immersed in Bavarian culture
Germany fan Sandie says: ‘There is a lot of traditional food available’
What Sandie likes most about Oktoberfest is the festival atmosphere and the Bavarian culture.
She says: ‘A lot of local people wear traditional costumes. The dirndl is a traditional Bavarian dress worn by women. They are all very elaborate and different.
“My favorite thing was seeing that culture come to life. I think it’s really striking for people when they see it, because people might not know that they’re still part of modern Bavaria.
‘There is a lot of traditional food to buy. I would recommend Bismarck, a very thick pancake in pieces with icing sugar and apple sauce!’
Dancing on tables is not allowed and avoid the puke hill at night!
“Quiet behavior or dancing on the tables can get you thrown out,” Sandie reveals
As with all festivals, there are rules you must adhere to.
Sandie says, “There’s always music playing, so singing and dancing are expected. But being rowdy or dancing on the tables will get you thrown out.
‘There are horror stories about “puke hill” where people go after a few beers too many. In my opinion it’s a bit exaggerated.
‘It’s behind some tents and late at night people come by who are in a worse condition.
‘During the day it can be a normal place where people sit in the sun on nice days!’
“I would always say, do what the locals do. If you don’t see anyone else doing it, don’t do it yourself.”
It is very accessible, but make sure you make a reservation!
Most people don’t know that admission to the event itself is free.
Sandie says, “You don’t pay until you buy beer or go on the rides.
‘You can enter for free, which makes it very accessible.
If you want to take part in any activities, make sure you book well in advance as it is a huge festival.
‘It is very wise to reserve a table in a tent in advance, especially if you are with a group.
‘In Germany cash is king, much more so than in the UK and Ireland. It’s always best to have some change with you to buy beer or pay for rides. It’s not as tap-happy a culture as Britain!’
Beer is a common language
At the festival they are used to visitors from all over the world.
Sandie says, “Many menus have English translations and pictures.
“The good news is that the German word for beer is bier, and it’s pronounced the same as the English word!”
