Why you should avoid the Munich Oktoberfest
Unless you are in the gorgeous situation that travel budget is not a big issue for you, there are a couple of reasons to consider alternatives. Yes it is said to be the largest Volksfest on the world. But definitely I am not the first to claim that it´s not always the size that matters.
As the Oktoberfest has a unique atmosphere, it inspires travelers year after year to visit and celebbrate with the cloud. Cole and Adela from fourjandals.com wrote an excellent short guide on how to survive the Oktoberfest as a foreign visitor. However if this huge event is not your piece of cake here are some
Reasons for not visiting the Munich Oktoberfest
Ok what is the main attraction when visiting the Oktoberfest:
You sit in an overcrowded tent. On an uncomfortable bank. Which you have to reserve if you go in the evening. Every now and than someone will pur his or her beer over your nice Dirndl or Lederhosen that you just bought. You are listening to music that is well … it takes getting used to it. The music will be so loud that you won´t be able to have a conversation with the person next to you. Except from screaming directly into his/her ear. Which leaves you two options:
Drinking. And Eating. Well nothing to bad about that. Only that I can think of more pleasant ways of enjoying my dinner/lunch. Which is besides that somewhat upscale at mediocre quality.
1 Liter of beer is currently close to 10.- Euro. If plan not to drink you´re probably really better of not to go. If you go though and stay away from alcohol, be informed that spring water is appr. 7 Euro.
Finding accomodiation has it´s price as well. Hostel beds tend to be around 90.- Euro, just to give you a rough idea.
It´s fun and for me this once in lifetime experience is worth everything you are mentioning you might say. And I am pretty aware that most international travelers visiting Germany think that way. And I do visit some weird events that most locals wouldn´t do as well. By the way approximately 34% of the people living in Munich did not grow up there. If, however, you are looking for alternatives with a little more real, here is my list of
8 alternative events to visit if you avoid the Munich Oktoberfest:
| City | Event | Date |
| Bamberg | Sandkerwa | Aug 22.-Aug 26. 2013 |
| Nuremberg | Volksfest | Aug 23.-Sep 8. 2013 |
| Cologne | Carneval | Feb 27.-Mar 4. 2014 |
| Passau | Maidult | Apr 25. – May 4. 2014 |
| Erlangen | Bergkirchweih | Jun 6. – Jun 16 2014 |
| Würzburg | Kiliani Volksfest | Jul 4. – Jul 20. 2014 |
| Forchheim | Annafest | Jul 25. – Aug 4. 2014 |
| Passau | Herbstdult | Sep 5. -Sep 14. 2014 |
Have you visited the Oktoberfest yet?
Probably you´re going anyhow to the Oktoberfest. Or you have already been there. I hope you enjoy yourself a lot on this unique event. You are welcome to share your experience in the comment section. Also if you are visiting one of the 8 alternative events or feel you think something is missing there.
Party on!