Your Ultimate Survival Guide for Oktoberfest 2013

Attending the Oktoberfest in Munich and sipping on a cold one in one of the German pewter beer steins has been your lifelong dream that is finally coming true! However, with millions of other equally thrilled visitors, some of whom are regulars, who flock to the grounds to enjoy the fabulous beers, German foods and activities that take place; having a basic strategy can always help.

If you truly want to make the most of the world’s biggest beer party, here is how you can do so:

1. Get the Facts Right

   While planning to visit, most of us first assume that the fest starts in the month of October. As a matter of fact, this festival is a 16 day event that begins in September. With 7 million liters of beer being consumed by millions of visitors, it is only smart to plan well in advance.

2.  Make All your Bookings in Advance

   Hotel rooms in and around Munich start to fill up months in advance. If you plan on relying on a campground, remember that they too get quite filled up during the days of the festival. Considering that every local is as interested in attending the fest as you are, you should be prepared to make do with a not so comfortable and pricey place that is not even centrally located.

   Said that, consider booking a hotel room in the gorgeous and historic city of Numberg that is an hour away from Munich. Here you will be able to find a room in your budget with relative ease. Trains also tend to get crowded during these 16 days. It is thus ideal to plan your commute and make ticket bookings well in advance.

3.  Your Battle Plan

   Before you get here, it is recommended that you have a list of events, activities and tents handy. Each tent offers unique experiences a chance to experience the Bavarian culture. The fest is also a great place to find some additional pewter beer steins for your collection back home. Also, if you plan on getting here on the first few days of the fest, do not miss the tapping of the first keg in the Schotenhamel. The Hacker-Festzelt is also worth a visit. Here you can witness an exquisitely painted ceiling known as the ‘heaven of Bavaria’.

4.  Understanding the Rules

   The fest comes with one critical rule. If you don’t have a seat, you do not get any beer. It is best to arrive early that is by 2 PM on weekdays and by noon on weekends to get a chance to fill up your pewter beer stein and enjoy the local German brews.

   In addition o the beer steins, you may also want to come back with include traditional German costume as memory to one of the best parties you attended in your life!

   by Marina Chernyak

    

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