How to Survive Oktoberfest 101

Oktoberfest, the legendary German festival, is not for the weak! But fear not, whether you’re a beer-drinking fanatic or simply someone who wants to check Oktoberfest off your bucket list, this guide will help you survive and thrive during the world's biggest beer bash.

Dress the Part

If there’s one thing that’ll have you blending in with the locals, it’s the traditional Bavarian outfit. Trust me, you don’t want to be that person who shows up in jeans and a hoodie. Embrace the culture and get yourself a dirndl for the ladies or lederhosen for the gents. And here's a pro tip: rent your outfit for the weekend. These outfits can get really expensive, so finding a place to rent them for the weekend is the best deal!

Bring Cash—The Beers Don’t Pour for Free

There’s no ApplePay at Oktoberfest, so don’t think about relying on your phone to pay — cash is a must! You'll need it not just for the beer, but also for all the irresistible food stalls — hello, pretzels and bratwurst — and, of course, the rides. Oktoberfest is like a beer-fueled amusement park, so after a few steins, those spinning rides and roller coasters will look like the best idea ever.

Here’s the thing: once you go on one ride, you'll be hooked, and your cash will disappear faster than you thought it would. It’s a good idea to bring more than you think you’ll need because, between the drinks, food and fun, your wallet will empty out quickly. And trust me, no one wants to be standing in line for the ATM when they could be downing another beer or munching on a giant pretzel. So, come prepared and bring as much cash as you’re willing to part with — it’s all part of the adventure!

Choose Your Tent Wisely

There are so many different tents you could go to at Oktoberfest, and each one has its own personality. If you are an American college student and want to stick to that crowd, then head to Hofbräu Festzelt. This tent is often packed with American college students looking to party, who just want to chug beer which will make you feel right at home.

But if you're not in the mood for table dancing and wild beer chants, avoid the student-heavy tents until later in the night when you might be ready to join in the chaos. Choose your tent wisely depending on the vibe you want, whether it’s rowdy or relaxed.

Another tip, tents fill up fast, so it’s a good idea to get there early, especially if you want a seat. And yes, you need a seat to be served beer. No seat, no beer — it’s the law at Oktoberfest.

Get Ready to Sing Your Heart Out

Let’s talk about the highlight of the night: the music. And no, it’s not just German bands (though those are there too). You’ll hear a mix of traditional songs and surprising pop classics that will have you belting out the lyrics like a local.

Yes, Sweet Caroline is a crowd favorite. By the time the chorus rolls around, you and everyone around you will be singing “So good! So good! So good!” at the top of your lungs. Another favorite? Country Roads. Yes, the American classics somehow became an Oktoberfest staple.

There's no escaping the sing-alongs at Oktoberfest. It's all part of the experience, and you’ll feel like you’re part of one giant, beer-filled family by the end of the night.

Make sure to tag @ElonEdge if you make a trip to Germany’s annual Oktoberfest!