5 Things to Try for the Oktoberfest Newbie!

#5: Learn a some German phrases

German is actually not as hard to learn as people may think! Many words are very similar to English words. Many words are just a combination of 2-5 words put together and when reading, you simply sound it out… very very few silent consonants. Here are some fun phrases to get you started.

• Hello! My name is Ingeborg. – Hallo! Ich heisse Ingeborg.
• The weather is very nice today. – Das Wetter ist sehr schön Heute.
• Where is the nearest beer garden? – Wo ist der nächste Biergarten?
• Ah Shit! – Ach scheiße!
• Would you like to dance with me? – Wollen Sie mit mir tanzen?
• Goodbye! – Auf Wiedersehen!

#4: Taste a Bavarian Favorite

You’ve probably had a pretzel and a bratwurst a time or two, but how about a Leberkäse, Spätzle or a Schweinshaxe? All of these are favorites among locals and are simply delicious. You can try to make them yourself, or find a German restaurant in your area and try theirs!

#3: Learning to Polka  

A polka is a fast-paced tune with 4 counts to the measure or also referred to as a 1,2,3 step. It’s not the easiest to master if you’re a beginner, but it’s worth a try. Once you’ve got the steps down, you’ll be hoping for every band to be playing a polka so you can show off your new dance moves! (for a bit more visual help, check out some of the fun… and sometimes funny YouTube tutorials)

#2: Drink Oktoberfest Beers!

Pretty much every Bavarian brewery and many US craft breweries have special Oktoberfest beers. These are usually amber in color, pack a bit more of a punch than your standard lager, and are perfect for the season! Head on over to your local German bar and start trying some new things like the Hacker Pschorr, Spaten, Weihenstephan, or Ayinger.

#1: Get an Oktoberfest outfit

For men, a plaid trachten shirt and Lederhosen (leather pants) are the standard ensemble. For women, there is a bit more variety! Most women stick with the traditional Bavarian style dress, the dirndl, but some like to wear a blouse and shorter fitted lederhosen, maybe just jeans, a cute jacket and a hat, or perhaps a maxi skirt with a sweater and some fun Oktoberfest inspired jewelry. But no matter what you choose, Oktoberfest (whether in Munich, at a local brewery’s Oktoberfest, or your own themed party) it’s always more fun to dress up! And I know where you can get theses items... (cough*cough*wink*wink*) However you decide to celebrate Oktoberfest this year, whether it be in Munich, at the local German bar or in your own backyard, be sure to include a few of these fun and funky things to try for Oktoberfest. It only comes once a year, so let’s make this season one to remember!