Oktoberfest is more than just a celebration. It goes beyond the locally brewed beverages to the chicken dance, giant-size pretzels, and heart-shaped gingerbread necklaces sold mostly as souvenirs. The hearty Bavarian cuisine, traditional Music beats, German tracht outfits, and much more contribute to the amazing traditions of Oktoberfest. Living up to all these traditions at the Beerfest ground makes the experience of joining one of the biggest festivals in the world AMAZING!
All the Traditions at Wiesn
Some of the traditions at Oktoberfest that are rejoiced every year and without which beer fest celebration is incomplete include;
1. Traditional Bavarian Outfit
Dressing in the traditional Bavarian attire takes the experience of participating in Oktoberfest celebrations to another level. For men, the traditional choice for Oktoberfest is “lederhosen.” These Bavarian trousers come in two lengths-shorts or three-quarter-length pants. Some of the prominent features of these leather pants are buttoned or zippered fastenings, the drop-front flap, knife pocket, and leg adjustments. These leather trousers are beautifully embellished with embroidered deer, oak leaves, or edelweiss motifs. To complete the Wiesn look, these Bavarian pants are complemented by a white shirt, long socks, boots, and leather suspenders.
For women, the common choice of dress is the dirndl. This traditional piece of clothing comprises a bodice, blouse, and a full skirt adorned with an apron. The placement of the bow on the dirndl signifies one's relationship status, with the left indicating single, the right indicating taken, the front indicating virgin, and the back indicating widow or waitress.
2. Oktoberfest Beer Tents
Oktoberfest is listed as the largest folk festival in the world. The venue is filled with many unique offerings and attractions. The Oktoberfest beer tents are undoubtedly one of the biggest crowd pleasers never seen and found anywhere else. Among the 17 large tents, guests run across many experiences. From the grandiose Hofbräu Festzelt, particularly favored by Americans for its vibrant atmosphere and lively oom-pah bands, to the more intimate setting of the 3,522-seat Käfers Wiesen Schänke. The latter is esteemed for its gourmet culinary offerings and visited by famous personalities. Like these two, every tent has a unique theme and vibe.
There are also 21 small tents proudly erected at the fairground. These tents are considered smaller because of the limited seats, although these venues are equally big for the fun. The beer served in all the tents is from one of the six local breweries in Munich.
3. Keg Tapping Ceremony
The ceremonial tapping of the first beer barrel by Munich’s mayor is a globally recognized event, though the spirit for the traditions is still young. In 1950, Michael Schottenhamel of the Schottenhamel-Festhalle engaged the popular Mayor Thomas Wimmer to keg the tap into the beer barrel. Wimmer tapped the beer barrel in 17 blows before successfully securing the tap to the barrel. Two barrels are set up for the ceremony, one of which serves as a backup in case of any unforeseen event.
Today, Bavaria's public television station broadcast the keg tapping ceremony. Besiding Munich’s mayor is Bavaria’s prime minister, underlining the Oktoberfest's significance as the Bavarian national festival, tracing back to its origins commemorating the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig and Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. Just before noon, the mayor starts the tapping ceremony, signaling the official commencement of festivities. The proclamation of "Ozapft is," meaning "it is tapped," is followed by personal greetings for the ensuing 16 to 18 days. The moment is followed by twelve cannon beats, signaling the opening of all other tents for their tapping ceremonies.
4. Classic Bavarian Cuisine
Bavarian cuisine is prominent at Oktoberfest celebrations, offering hearty dishes that complement the festive atmosphere. A wise act would be to savor these culinary delights, which can help balance beer consumption. For an authentic taste experience, guests can visit the Armbrustschützenzelt tent, famously popular for its Bavarian specialties. Among these delicacies are Hendl, succulent spit-roasted chicken available in half and whole portions, and Haxn, tender pork knuckles prepared with traditional ingredients.
Guests can also explore the fish specialties of the Fischer Vroni tent. A highlight is the Steckerlfisch (fish on the stick,) a FESTIVALS FAVORITE! It’s grilled whitefish served on a skewer. These culinary delights provide a refreshing departure from traditional festivities while adding to the culinary diversity of Oktoberfest. Throughout the festival grounds, variations of these signature dishes abound. Some of the classics at Wiesn Fest ground are;
- Würstl (sausages)
- A hearty Knoedel (dumplings)
- Brotzeit (platter of assorted snacks comprising meats, cheeses, radishes, and bread.)
5. Special Traditional Desserts
A cherished delight to Oktoberfest festivities, the Brezel (soft pretzel) holds a special place among attendees. These oversized treats have a doughy texture, generously sprinkled with salt, and are typically sold at different kiosks. These stalls are strategically positioned outside every beer tent's side and front entrances. Visiting the food vendors is a must for those seeking a sweet indulgence. Here, one can request Gebrannte Mandeln, a delectable offering of sugar-glazed almonds heartily prepared in copper kettles and elegantly served in paper cones. Black forest cake, Apple strudel. Rote Grütze and Dumfundel are some of the yummiest Bavarian desserts, and without them, the Oktoberfest culinary experience is incomplete.
6. The Traditional Chicken Dance
The Chicken Dance has been an essential tradition of Oktoberfest festivities for over two decades. This lively tradition, set to the catchy oom-pah tune known as Der Ententanz ("Dance Little Bird"), more commonly referred to as "The Chicken Dance," adds a vibrant element to the celebration. Participants dressed in traditional long to mini dirndls and lederhosen follow a series of movements that mimic chicken behavior. Firstly, they form beaks with their hands by pressing their thumbs and fingers together, then act to open and close them like mouths in rhythm with the music, repeating this action four times. Next, they tuck their hands into their armpits and flap their elbows outward four times.
Following the step, dancers lower their hands to their sides with palms facing downward, extend their fingers outward, and bend their knees while wiggling back and forth four times. Finally, rising to their feet, they clap four times before either spinning in circles with arms outstretched or locking arms with a neighbor and spinning together. With each verse, the pace speeds up, requiring participants to maintain the tempo of the music. This interactive, fun dance provides a lighthearted break from indulging in Oktoberfest's renowned beer offerings.
7. Locally Brewed Munich Beer
At Oktoberfest, beer is the showstopper! The beer at Wiesn is exclusively brewed from six esteemed Munich breweries:
- Hacker Pschorr
- Hofbräu
- Paulaner
- Spaten
- Löwenbräu
- Augustiner.
These breweries have a long-standing tradition of crafting quality brews served in the iconic one-liter maß or steins. Weissbier, commonly known as wheat beer, deviates from this norm and is often presented in tall, fluted half-liter glasses for full enjoyment. All the beers served at Wiesn abide by the “Purity Law,” which states that beer should be crafted only with barley malt, hop, and water. Pricing for these hearty beverages typically starts from €12.60 to €14.90 in cash per liter. Guests are offered a reasonable deal for the generous portions served. A heartfelt toast is customary. This ritual involves making eye contact with your drinking companion, raising your glasses, and exclaiming, "Prost!" (Cheers!) before taking a hearty sip.
8. The Carnival Rides
Since the first iteration of Wiesn, the Carnival rides have consistently stood as a fun element of the overarching celebration. The exhilarating rides, such as roller coasters, log flumes, and the towering 164-foot Ferris Wheel known as Risenrad, are all thrilling. The fair has many attractions, including a flea circus, street performers, and live bands.
The bustling Budenstrassa, or Avenue of Booths, is famous for its enthralling food stalls, souvenir shops, and captivating games of chance. The Tuesdays during Oktoberfest are the family days at the funfair. All the rides can be enjoyed on Tuesdays at special discount rates and entertainment throughout the day. The day Wiesn is flooded with guests of all ages.
9. Wiesn Souvenirs
Collecting the Oktoberfest souvenirs adds a piece of memory to your cherished experience. Remember to pay the beer stein. Otherwise, hefty fines are imposed for unlawfully acquiring the sturdy glass steins used for serving beer. These glasses can be legally obtained from the souvenir shops within each tent. The festival organizers offer a commemorative Oktoberfest Stein for purchase across the WIesn ground. Crafted from ceramic, these mugs are available with a pewter lid. Among the most popular and readily available souvenirs are the Edelweiss jewelry. Lebkuchen, or gingerbread necklaces. These heart-shaped gingerbread treats are decorated with German phrases like "Ich Liebe Dich" (I love you) and are accompanied by a ribbon for convenient wear.
10. Oktoberfest Music
Music plays an important role in every Oktoberfest celebration, from yodeling to the vibrant tunes of brass bands. Music adds to the festive atmosphere of beer tent gatherings and becomes a highlight of the festivities. Among the popular songs enjoyed during these lively gatherings are the infectious rhythms of "Ein Prosit." Each tent at Wiesn has its musical performances lined up, with special bands performing in different time slots. These musical performances are so infectious that you cannot go by without standing and dancing to the musical beats.
Wrap Up!
Oktoberfest is full of traditions that are celebrated each year with full zeal and zest. These traditions range from Bavarian food, drinks, traditional outfits, music, and dances to the beer tents. All these traditions make up most of the Wiesn. These traditions are happening and enjoyed thoroughly by its guests each year at the fairground.
