Oktoberfest Celebration

Heading to Oktoberfest 2024? Get ready for live music, polka dancing, plenty of bratwursts, and, of course, an endless variety of beers, from lagers to wheat beers and everything in between. Oktoberfest is the kickoff event for fall in Bavaria, the most vibrant of all German festivals — a legendary celebration that draws people from all over the world to Munich for a one-of-a-kind experience. And guess what? This year’s event promises more fun than ever. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a returning fest fan, this guide will show you how to have the best time at Oktoberfest 2024! 🇩🇪

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Willkommen zum Oktoberfest 2024 in München! 🍺

TLDR

Our main tips for you this year: 👇

1. Nab a spot at a table in a tent
2. Pair beer with hearty bites
3. Plan around the live music
4. Rock a traditional Bavarian outfit
5. Be open to meeting new people
6. Explore beyond the tents

Photo: Marina in Munich for Flytographer. Kendra and friends capture memories in Munich with a friends photoshoot at Oktoberfest.

1. Nab a spot at a table in a tent

Decked out in Bavarian themes, the tents at Oktoberfest are iconic and visually striking. 🎪 The Augustiner tent, in particular, is a favourite among Oktoberfest veterans. We highly recommend trying to snag a table in one to fully soak in the experience.

However, as event dates get closer, it becomes more challenging to secure a spot. The best way to ensure a table is by reserving one in advance. If it’s too late for that, don’t worry — there are still chances to grab a seat. 

A large portion of the seats are reserved for walk-ins, with additional spots set aside for residents. Visiting on weekdays and arriving early (by noon, at the latest) will improve your chances of nabbing a spot. Saturdays are the busiest, making it much harder to find a table. If your schedule allows, skip Saturday and use the day to explore the city instead.

Fly tip: If you’re staying at a hotel, ask the concierge if they have any reserved tables for guests. Many hotels have their own tables and can often get you a seat with ease. 👍

Extra tip: Looking for a premium, exclusive feel to your Oktoberfest experience? Some promoters and tents offer VIP areas with reserved seating, enhanced service, and a more private atmosphere. Just keep in mind, that these tickets usually need to be booked well in advance. 🎟️

Photo: Marina in Munich for Flytographer. Kyle and family capture memories in Munich with a multigenerational photoshoot at Oktoberfest.

2. Pair your beer with hearty bites

What pairs perfectly with great beer? You guessed it — authentic Bavarian and German food. 😋 Food is an integral part of culture in Bavaria and is also celebrated at Oktoberfest. In the beer tents, you’ll find hearty, filling dishes that not only taste amazing but also help you absorb the beer and sustain those long drinking sessions.

Here are all-time classics:

• Pretzels: No introduction needed! These large, salty pretzels are a staple at Oktoberfest—readily available and affordable. 🥨
• Bratwurst mit Sauerkraut: A match made in heaven! Traditional German sausage served with pickled cabbage, often accompanied by potato salad. 🥔
• Braised brats: These are a delicious twist on the traditional bratwurst, offering a more tender texture and richer flavours thanks to the slow-cooking process. They pair perfectly with the sides mentioned above and a generous dollop of grainy or spicy mustard. 🌭

Other popular options include Hendl (roast chicken) and Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle).

Vegetarian or vegan? Pretzels are your best friend, and sauerkraut can be enjoyed on its own. You’ll also find plenty of other options, from vegetable soups to local dumplings. The truth is, everyone can enjoy the German Bier Fest!

🚨 Pro tip: Most vendors on-site don’t accept credit or debit cards, so at Oktoberfest, cash is essential. It’s smart to withdraw euros in advance. While general admission is free, you’ll likely spend on food and drinks, so it’s recommended to bring about €100 per person, per day.

Did you know? Only breweries that follow the German Beer Purity Law and brew their beer within Munich’s city limits are allowed to serve Oktoberfest beer. So while you won’t find American or international brands, if you’re a fan of classic Bavarian brews, you’ll be in heaven! 😍

Photo: Marina in Munich for Flytographer. Jennifer and family capture memories in Munich with a family photoshoot at Oktoberfest.

3. Plan around the live music

When people think of Oktoberfest, they often think of revellers holding massive steins of beer, singing along to lively tunes, and dancing — often on top of benches — and they’re not wrong! Live music is a big part of the Oktoberfest fun. 🎶  

It goes more or less like this:

• Until 6 PM, the atmosphere is dominated by traditional Bavarian folk music. Brass bands in each tent play folk tunes, polkas, and waltzes, setting a festive mood that’s steeped in local culture. 🪗
• Every 15 minutes, you’ll hear the familiar strains of “Ein Prosit,” a beloved drinking song that prompts a cheerful group toast. It’s a moment of unity, with happy guests raising their glasses in for a toast. Prost! 🍻
• As evenings unfold, the musical landscape shifts. Some tents incorporate more contemporary pop and rock music, and the volume noticeably increases. This transition marks a change in the festival’s energy, often drawing a younger crowd and creating a more party-like atmosphere. 🪩

Fly tip: It’s a great idea to learn some of the most popular verses to join the crowds — that’s also an ice breaker to meet new friends. Not that you need one with all that beer around you! 😂

Photo: Marina in Munich for Flytographer. Kelly and family capture memories in Munich with a family photoshoot at Oktoberfest.

4. Rock a traditional Bavarian outfit

Oktoberfest is the perfect opportunity to trade your regular clothes for traditional Bavarian attire. Trust us, many visitors will be dressed this way — and while locals don’t typically wear Dirndls or Lederhosen in their daily lives, they certainly do for this special event! 💁‍♀️

Here’s what to wear:

• Dirndl for women: A dress with a fitted bodice, full skirt, and apron, usually worn with a white blouse.
• Lederhosen for men: Short or knee-length leather breeches with suspenders and a traditional shirt. Best paired with knee-high socks and sturdy shoes.

You can rent or buy these outfits in town. Purchasing one makes for a great souvenir and something you can wear again at themed parties back home. 😉

Pro tip: it’s smart to finish off the look with comfortable shoes — cutting the experience short to hobble back to your accommodations for the evening is no fun.

Photo: Gloria in Munich for Flytographer. Carolina and friends capture memories in Munich with a friends photoshoot at Oktoberfest.

5. Be open to meeting new people

Remember the scene we painted of people singing lively tunes and linking arms? Well, you can join in! What’s the best way to make the most of Oktoberfest 2024? Be open to meeting new people — it’s a big part of the fun. 🤝 The communal seating alone already makes it easier to strike up conversations with strangers, and with a bit of liquid courage, you’ll be toasting together in no time.

Sing along, take part in group toasts, and embrace the opportunity for cultural exchange. Meeting locals can provide great tips and insights about Germany and local culture. Besides, Oktoberfest also attracts visitors from all over the world, so who knows? You might make a new friend from Germany or a completely different part of the globe. 🌐

Everyone is there to drink, sing, eat, and just have a great time. When you finally snag that hard-earned spot at a beer tent table, be sure to enjoy the company of the people you’re sharing it with. 🎉

Photo: Marina in Munich for Flytographer. Lisa and family capture memories in Munich with a family photoshoot at Oktoberfest.

6. Explore beyond the tents

Oktoberfest isn’t just about sitting around drinking beer — there are plenty of other fun activities too!

Whether or not Oktoberfest is family-friendly is one of the most FAQs about the event. The answer is yes. Parents, you can bring your kids! The beer tents are family-friendly until 8 p.m., and the festival offers a variety of attractions to keep little ones entertained, such as carousels and marionette theatres. 🎠

Tuesdays are Family Days until 7 p.m., with many rides and snack bars offering special prices — a great perk on top of free admission. If you’re visiting on a Saturday, be sure to leave the stroller at your accommodation, as they aren’t allowed into the festival because of the large crowds.

There’s also a large amusement park area featuring carnival rides like a giant Ferris wheel and roller coasters, along with plenty of shopping areas where you can browse stalls selling traditional Bavarian clothing, souvenirs, and handcrafted items. 🛍️ You can also visit cultural booths showcasing Bavarian crafts and traditions.

Fly tip: Don’t forget you’re in one of the most exciting cities in Europe. Save some time during your visit to explore other parts of Munich and attractions outside the festival grounds. The sights are breathtaking and steeped in history. 👌

Photo: Marina in Munich for Flytographer. Haley and friend capture memories in Munich with a friends photoshoot at Oktoberfest.

Capturing Memories at Oktoberfest

At Oktoberfest, the ceremonial tapping of the first keg marks the official start of the festival, and from there, it’s all about fun! The event is one of those experiences you simply must have at least once in a lifetime — so why wait? 🤔

When you find yourself in Munich or nearby, reach out to one of our local photographers and let them capture your memories in this wonderful German region. 💙