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Where to celebrate Oktoberfest?
Every year, the city of Munich in Germany hosts the world’s biggest beer festival: the Oktoberfest! And to add to the confusion already: it all starts on September 16.
All the clichés you might know about the fest are actually true: you get dressed up in a Dirndl or Lederhosen, you squeeze into a crowded tent, and you drink as much beer as you can!
When is the Oktoberfest?
From September 16 through October 3, from approx. 10:00 through 23:00 (depending on the day).
Where does the fest take place?
There are small versions of the Oktoberfest in Holland, and the tradition is even being celebrated in countries as non-German as Sweden, Canada, and Namibia (!), but the real Oktoberfest takes place in Munich, Germany. On a special terrain not far from the city centre, and most easily reached by public transportation, you will find lots of tents, big and small, with all kinds of music, food, and especially: beer.
Do I have to make a reservation?
Many of the festival tables have often been reserved in advance, but you can go without a reservation as well, as long as you make sure to arrive early.
Do I have to dress up?
To be honest: you will look less like a fool with a Dirndl or Lederhosen than without! So make sure you and your friends get yourselves some matching outfits before heading into the beer madness.
Is it fun?
Well – that depends on how you define “fun”. It’s a bit like carnaval: there’s a great atmosphere at the start of the day, and at some point, everybody is (too) drunk. Especially because of the enormous sizes of the beer glasses, you easily underestimate the amount of alcohol you’re consuming. It’s also really crowded and has become a magnet for tourists these days. So it’s kind of a “once-in-a-lifetime experience” – but it sure is one hell of a party!
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