Oktoberfest is the world's largest and most popular folk festival. Millions of visitors from all over the world come to our capital every year to have fun between a pint of beer and a pretzel. Anyone who has ever been to the Wiesn knows how crowded it is. Only with a lot of luck can you spontaneously get a place in the beer tents in the evening. The rest are always booked in advance. But how exactly does a visit to the tent work? Do you need an Oktoberfest table reservation or do you have to order tickets? Our atrium Hotel in Munich enlightens you.
Oktoberfest table reservation absolutely necessary?
It is not obligatory to reserve a table in advance. Nevertheless, it will secure you a place in the coveted tents. This is because long queues form at the entrances to the fourteen large festival tents in the early hours of the morning. When the Oktoberfest opens at 9 a.m., the battle for a place at the tables begins. Many visitors often fail to get a seat. If you don't want to put up with this chaos, you should therefore reserve a table in the marquee of your choice well in advance.
How to reserve a table
Oktoberfest table reservations are handled differently for each tent. In many cases, reservations are made via an online tool where you can enter your preferred date and sometimes even select the food. Many festival tents also ask for inquiries by fax or offer a telephone number.
Please note, however, that you cannot simply reserve a table or part of a table for 2 people. Only whole tables for normally eight or ten people are allocated.
Oktoberfest table reservation - costs
Reservations may incur costs, which vary from tent to tent and depend on whether the table is reserved during the week or at weekends. As a rule, however, reservations are free of charge. However, many tents only issue these in conjunction with the purchase of food vouchers. These are paid for in advance and then redeemed in the marquee.
The best time to make a reservation
Once the Wiesn is over, you can already reserve a table for next year. This is also advisable as the tables sell out quickly. Afternoon tables during the week are usually still available up to 3 weeks before the Oktoberfest begins.
And what if I don't want the table after all?
If the Oktoberfest table reservation is not confirmed and/or paid for on time, it usually simply expires. A confirmed reservation can be canceled free of charge in most tents up to a few weeks before the start of the Oktoberfest.
However, if you cancel at too short notice or the number of people is greatly reduced, you may be subject to a cancellation fee. Each marquee also handles this differently.
Is the Oktoberfest table reservation valid for a whole day?
Not always. Some areas are available twice a day: once in the afternoon and once in the evening until closing time. This ensures that several people have the chance to reserve a table and enjoy the lively atmosphere with beer and chicken. Simply ask at your desired tent for which time slots you can reserve a table.
Photo © Michael Rieperdinger - stock.adobe.com
