Oktoberfest is the world's largest fair with 6 million visitors and the highlight of Germany's annual event calendar.
Learn what to expect at the famous beer festival and find answers to the most commonly asked questions about Oktoberfest. Get helpful tips and suggestions for a memorable Oktoberfest celebration.
Read our Complete Guide to Oktoberfest 2009What Are the Highlights of Oktoberfest?
The Opening: Watch the official opening ceremony of Oktoberfest on Saturday, September 20th, in the tent called “Schottenhamel”. At noon, the mayor of Munich will tap the first keg of Oktoberfest beer with the traditional cry O`zapft is!(„It is tapped!“)
Come as early as 9 a.m. if you want to have a good seat.
Oktoberfest Costume Parade: The highlight of the Oktoberfest is the Costume and Riflemen's Parade. This colorful display of German history and culture takes place in the morning on the first Sunday of Oktoberfest.
More about Oktoberfest Events 2009
How Can I Reserve a Table in a Beer Hall at Oktoberfest?
There are 14 beer halls at Oktoberfest, and you can reserve a table in advance. Read all about the different beer tents of Oktoberfest and make your reservation directly, either by phone, mail or fax.
Can I Visit the Beer Tents Without a Reservation?
Yes, you can. Just make sure to arrive as early as possible, especially if you are with a large group.
During the week, come no later than 2:30 p.m., and on the weekend, mornings are the best and least crowded times to visit the beer tents.
If the beer tent is full and you have no reservation, you have to wait in line. No seat means no service - and no service means no drinks.
How Much Do I Have to Pay for Drinks at Oktoberfest?
This is a hot topic that locals like to discuss weeks in advance of Oktoberfest. The beer price for 2008 ranged between 7.70 and 8 Euros per liter.
Water and Soda prices are between 4 and 6 Euros.
Bring enough cash with you, some tents don't accept credit cards.
Can I Bring Children to Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest is more than drinking beer; it includes fun rides, ferris wheels, roller coasters, music, and parades to enjoy for young and old.
Come here with your kids on Family Day: Enjoy discounted prices on fun rides every Tuesday from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Children are also welcome in the beer halls, although kids under the age of six must leave the tents by 8 p.m. The best time for children to visit Oktoberfest is on weekdays before 5 p.m.
What's the History of Oktoberfest?
The first Oktoberfest was held in October of 1810 to celebrate the marriage of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese.
Princess Therese is the namesake for the location of Oktoberfest today, the Theresienwiese („Wiese“ means meadow). Locals also fondly refer to the Oktoberfest as die Wiesn.
Why Does Oktoberfest Begin in September?
Oktoberfest nowadays starts in September for practical reasons: The weather in Germany is better in September, and the nights are not so chilly. Historically, the last Oktoberfest weekend was always celebrated in October, and this tradition continues until today.
Read our Complete Guide to Oktoberfest 2009
