The Oktoberfest | Munich, Germany

Oktoberfest isn't just any beer festival - it's the world's largest folk festival, dating back to 1810 when it began as Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria's wedding celebration. As a resident of Munich, I've experienced this legendary event from every angle - from the traditional beer tents serving Mass (liter beers), to the secret invite-only shooting range at the Schützen-Festzelt tent, to the vibrant atmosphere where over 7.3 million visitors gather annually on the historic Theresienwiese. This guide distills years of local knowledge to help you navigate everything from the best tent selections like the intimate Marstall for date nights and the quirky Rischart bakery tent, to insider tips on optimal visiting times (weekday afternoons) when you can truly experience the festival like a local. Whether you're interested in authentic Trachten (traditional dress), seeking the perfect beer hall atmosphere, or wanting to experience centuries-old Bavarian traditions firsthand, this guide will help you avoid common tourist pitfalls and discover what makes this celebration so uniquely special that Germans have kept it going for over 200 years.