First time at Oktoberfest? Here's your complete guide to the best beer tents and tips for an unforgettable experience

Is this your first visit to Oktoberfest? No problem, with these tips it will be much easier for you.

For the first visit Oktoberfest it is necessary to prepare a little, because even in your wildest dreams you cannot imagine what awaits you. About six million people visit Munich's Oktoberfest every year. Some attend the event every year, while others will find themselves in the whirlwind of events for the first time this year. If you are one of them, don't worry. With our guide you will be ready for an unforgettable experience.

BOOK ACCOMMODATION: Munich

When and where is Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest usually takes place from mid-September to the first Sunday in October and lasts about two and a half weeks. This year (in 2024), the festival will thus begin on September 21 and end on October 6. The central action takes place on the Theresienwiese, a large open space in Munich, which is easily accessible by public transport. The festival begins with a parade of Oktoberfest tenants and brewers at 10:45 a.m. local time, when all vendors parade down the street in decorated horse-drawn carriages. Then at noon, the mayor officially declares Oktoberfest open.

What to expect at Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest is, to say the least, a happy event. Even during the quiet period, you can therefore expect a lively atmosphere, as the beer tents open around 10 am during the week and at 9 am on weekends. People come here to have fun. Also, most visitors fully immerse themselves in the Bavarian spirit with the help of traditional clothing — men wear lederhosen and women wear dirndls.

The best beer tents you must visit

The first visit to Oktoberfest is always something special. Oktoberfest has more than a dozen large beer tents to explore, each offering a unique atmosphere and specialty drinks and snacks.

Summer holidays 2024: These are less crowded European destinations where you can get away from the tourist crowds

Younger visitors mostly stay in the Hacker-Festzelt tent, where pop and fun music dominate, and the crowd also dances on beer benches. The Augustiner tent, on the other hand, is "family-friendly and slightly more traditional."

If you're looking for entertainment, try the Hofbräu or Löwenbräu tents, and don't miss the Paulaner brewery tent. The Schottenhamel tent is famous for hosting the opening ceremony of the festival. It is best to visit several different tents and find out which one suits you best. A certain section of seats is always reserved for visitors without reservations, although you may have to squeeze in a bit for a table, as the crowds are indescribable.