German Fest Milwaukee: What to Wear, Bring & Do
German Fest Milwaukee is one of the best cultural celebrations in the Midwest, and whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned stein-raiser, having a plan can make all the difference. It's always the last full weekend in July and we've been going for well over 10 years. Here's your Ultimate German Fest Dos and Donts Survival Guide for this Milwaukee Tradition... complete with insider tips, packing essentials, and everything you need to have the best fest without blisters, burnout, or bratwurst regret.
✅ DO: Check the Weather (and Dress for It)
Milwaukee weather in July is… unpredictable. That Lake Michigan breeze at German fest can go from refreshing to freezing real quick.
Pack smart:
- A light sweater or jacket for the evening
- High-SPF sunscreen (a sweetheart neckline sunburn is no joke)
- Sunglasses & a hat (yes, even with your dirndl—sun safety first!)
💡 Pro Tip: Looking for a comfy, breathable dirndl for German fest? Our Everyday Dirndls are perfect for hot summer fests—stylish and machine washable.
💧 DO: Stay Hydrated
Hydration is key to surviving a full weekend at German Fest of beer tents and bratwursts. Alternate every alcoholic drink with water and take advantage of the “bubblers” (aka drinking fountains) near the bathrooms to refill your cup or bottle.
Also pack:
- Lip balm (dry lips + wine tastings = disaster)
- Hair ties or a clip if you have longer hair (it gets sweaty quick)
🦟 DON’T: Forget Bug Spray
Being by the water is beautiful—but also buggy. If you're sticking around for the fireworks on Friday or Saturday night, bug spray is your new best friend. A single mosquito bite in the wrong place can ruin your vibe fast.
👟 DO: Wear Comfortable Shoes
The German Fest grounds are BIG. You’ll be on your feet a lot... dancing to polka bands, strolling the lakeshore, chasing the scent of German potato pancakes. Cute shoes are great, but your backup sneakers will feel like a foot spa by hour six.
Yes, sneakers do look cute with dirndls and they are very on trend! It's a clever way to to celebrate german heritage without being uncomfortable on your feet all day
💡 We wrote a whole post about what NOT to wear to Oktoberfest—worth a peek before festing at this Milwaukee tradition.
🥔 DON’T: Underestimate a Hangover
Listen—if you wake up on Sunday feeling like a knocked-over stein, head directly to the Kartoffelpuffer stand. These crispy potato pancakes are German Fest gold and the only acceptable hangover cure in our opinion.
Also bring:
- Advil or your go-to meds
- Electrolyte packets (or snag a salty pretzel with that Radler)
During German Fest weekend, don't forget to come visit the Rare Dirndl pop-up shop in the Marktplatz kiddy-corner from the first aid tent
💸 DO: Bring Some Cash
Most vendors at German Fest accept cards, but not all, and some have minimums. A little cash can go a long way, especially when you see a handmade stein or limited-edition Krampus pin that you must have. Trust us on this one.
👗 BONUS DO: Visit the Rare Dirndl Pop-Up Shop
We’ll be set up at German Fest in the Marktplatz, kitty-corner from the First Aid tent, with a curated selection of dirndls, blouses, accessories, and more. Come say hi, try things on, or just cool down with our fan in the dressing room.
Shop Dirndls Online → https://raredirndl.com/collections/dirndls
🥨 Final Thoughts
German Fest is more than a celebration—it’s a vibe. With these tips in your survival kit, you’ll be dancing the Schuhplattler, sipping Apfelwein, and cheering on wiener dog races like a total pro. (and if at the end of the night, your not ready to leave the spirit behind... checkout the Old German Beer Hall!)