Oktoberfest...oh my

Where to begin...

First off, I have to say I did not take as many photos as I had planned this weekend. It was one of those rare moments where you are actually having too much fun to think about taking out your phone to document it. Another reason for not having many photos is that most of the ones I did take are blurry, but you can't blame me...they only serve beer in litres!! 

Oktoberfest was something I had on top of my list of things to do on this trip, but I didn't think we could manage it as it ended so soon after I arrived. Even so, with a roughly three hour drive and a Sunday off, we couldn't say no. Cam had practice Saturday morning, and after we hopped in the car and drove to Munich for the night!

First step: Looking the part

If you have ever been to Oktoberfest, you know there is no better way to look like a tourist than showing up in jeans and a tee. I would say that at least 90% of people at the festival were dressed in tradition Trachten, and getting dressed up is a huge part of the fun!

For the guys, the typical look is leather shorts known as Lederhosen. Due to our last minute planning (and shopping), Cam's outfit was incomplete without the suspenders, but he still pulled it off quite nicely if you ask me.

Girls usually are sporting a Dirndl dress, and let me tell you, I LOVED it. These dresses are so cute and flattering. Although mine wasn't authentic, it was so fun getting dressed up. I did try on a few at a Trachten shop, and they are all handmade and sooo gorgeous. If you're willing, it would be so worth the splurge.

Second step: EAT

I am NOT adventurous when it comes to eating and trying new foods, so I'm not a good one to say it, but there are SO many different foods to try and places to choose from. Whether you want to try some of the classic Oktoberfest grub, or stick to what you know, you need to eat! Like I said, they only serve beer in litres.. 

Third Step: Pick a tent

People start lining up to get into one of the 14 famous tents at 7am. We didn't get to the grounds until roughly 6pm, and knew there was very little chance of getting in a tent, let alone getting a table which is the only way to be served. Let me tell you, we lucked out. 

We went with another friend from the team, and his grandparents tagged along for the first portion of the night. As we were in line for food, a tent right next door was opening its doors to let more people in. Grandma did some sweet talking and we got right in...this is seriously unheard of. It was amazing!!

We got into the Hofbräu tent and it was an absolute blast! Although, I think any tent that you can manage to get in to will lead to an amazing night. The tents start taking reservations in January, so if you plan to go, plan early!

Fourth (and Final) Step: Order a beer, meet new people, have the time of your life. 

I can honestly say that I am happy I forgot to take pictures and wasn't focused on trying to document it, because the photos and even videos do not do it justice. It's hard to explain

the atmosphere inside these tents, where everyone is having such a good time. It was so much fun meeting people from all over the world, trying beer, listening to the live music and dancing. Inside the tents are so beautiful, and everyone is there to have fun. 

We finished off the night by going on a ride on our way out. These flying swings were so much higher than I have ever seen and overlooked the whole grounds. I don't think I realized how high it was until I was looking at the top of a church from above. 

Check out my "photos" page for all the pictures from the weekend!

+Kahli