Oktoberfest Fun for the Whole Family
Believe it or not the world-famous Oktoberfest is actually aimed at families. Aside from the alcohol, the music and the dancing there are also amusement park rides, games and side-stalls so don’t be put-off thinking that Oktoberfest is strictly for adults. You’ll find many fairground attractions such as ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds, candyfloss stalls and even museums.
Visiting with family? Check out the Oktoberfest drinking age guide
Most of the tents you’ll come across will also cater to your little ones. If you and your family are able to make it along you might like to know what the family-friendly events and tents are. Below you’ll find a shortlist of some of the best all-ages tents (Festhalle) that have something for everybody.
Schottenhamel-Festhalle: The oldest and most traditional tent known for its appeal to students, making it a popular meeting place for young people.
Marstall-Festhalle: As the newest tent to grace the grounds of the Theresienwiese, the Marstall will be taking the place where the fan favourite, Hippodrom used to be. Featuring a horse-themed motif this tent will surely live up to its predecessor.
Augustiner-Festhalle: This tent is considered by many to be the friendliest of all at Oktoberfest. No matter how hectic it might get inside, the waitresses and waiters (almost) never forget to smile.
Braeurosl: in true Wiesn tradition, entertainment is the order of the day inside this crowd pleaser. There is always a positive atmosphere with traditional Bavarian songs being sung (and sometimes yodelled) and live music from the Ludwig Thoma musicians in full swing.
Even beer tents cater for the little ones
When the Germans decide to throw a party, they definitely know what draws the crowds. The procession on the first Sunday of Oktoberfest is world renowned for its scale and pageantry. The seven kilometre long march is comprised of some 8,000 participants and includes troops and riflemen in period uniforms, marching bands, thoroughbred horses, decorated cows goats and oxen, floats proudly culture as well as historic carriages. And that’s only the beginning.
Can Oktoberfest Be Considered A Family Getaway?
The short answer is, only if you like people and lots of them. Last year the festival attracted over 6 million people but the good news is that there are a range of camping options available, making the Theresienwiese a viable stop in your travels. Spread throughout the city the sites are ideally situated close to public transport and being surrounded by such an interesting international community means that your trip will be unlike any other.
School excursions are a common sight at the festival. Yes, they even head to the beer tents!
Although the name may lead you to believe that Oktoberfest runs in October – that just makes sense. But it isn’t exactly true. Oktoberfest begins on the last Saturday in September and will go until the first Sunday in October. Getting to the even t early is a good idea and will get you the best value for money (though general admission is free – and always has been) and the most out of your time.
A single day at Oktoberfest can be a life-changing and eye-opening experience. With festival tours and holiday packages becoming more and more comprehensive (not to mention affordable) the event really is a destination that the whole family will be able to enjoy.
