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Category: Travel
Invariably, we all feel the need to go to these national parties.... Oktoberfest, Carnivale in Brazil, Mardi Gras, perhaps the running of the Bulls. To tell you the truth, I'm not sure if Oktoberfest compares with these other events in wildness. After all, it is Germany. Still, here are a few tips.
1. Oktoberfest is centered in Munich and it doesn't take place in Oktober (or October even). It starts in the last 2 weeks of September and runs 3 weeks.
2. Consider going to the opening parade on the first day which is a good laugh. The mayor taps the first keg in the Schottenhimmel tent, so perhaps try to get in there first.
3. If you own leather pants, wear them, as they are considered traditional German attire.
4. Oktoberfest is centered around tents. There is an amusement park at Theresienwiese (also the name of the metro stop) and in this amusement park are 11 tents, each with their own identities and music. Inside the tents is where the real action is. Action means standing on tables and singing/dancing...with a bit more in the HofBrau tent.
5. There are 10-15 tents...Each tent serves a particular kind of beer. The most notable one is definitely the HofBrau tent where all the Australians go. It is the only tent where you can stand and get a beer in the center pit area and there will be lots of women flashing cleavage. This excites a lot of the males and a lot of people (and I hate to stereotype, but watch out for the Italians) will try to grab the women among you. If you really don't want a part of this, I'd advise against this tent. But don't be too put off by the stories you'll hear...guys will be fine and girls may get a bit of unwanted attention, but nothing too serious. It is the most fun tent, IMHO. Most other tents are milder and equal in intensity...I like the Lowenbrau tent for a comprimise. The 2 sekt tents (which serve champagne rather than beer) are noticeably quieter.
6. The whole thing closes at midnight and tents often are "full" by 8pm or so, especially the popular ones. However, even if you are outside at this time, you can often get in tents through the many side entrances. Don't be one of the silly people who queues at the front if the doors are closed....simply walking around the sides and waiting for a door to open usually works.
7. At midnight, consider walking north to the tram rather than taking the crowded metro.
8. Call ahead and book a table if you have a large group. Ahead means weeks ahead. Finding space is often a problem, though usually you can comandeer the end of someone's table. No table = no beer.
9. If you are in Munich and it's not Oktoberfest, the Fruhlingsfest or Starkbierfest at other times of the year are basically the same but smaller...or go to the HofBrauHaus near the city center any time of the year.
As always...feedback welcome....
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