I am addicted to this festival! So much fun to spend a few days at!…read more
First of all, you must go with other people to really enjoy it....invite your family, friends, coworkers.
Second, get crazy - wear some lederhosen or a drindl. Buy a hat or a flower headband. Buy a fun Oktoberfest tshirt to wear. Get in the spirit!
Third, if you love beer, try it all! There's also wine and spirits around the festival for purchase, but beer is really what everyone drinks. Not only are there Oktoberfest beers, such as Paulaner and Hacker Pschorr, but many local craft beers.
Fourth, go early and have a Bahama Mama from Schmidt's in Columbus for lunch. If you're still hungry, have a giant cream puff or strudel for dessert.
Fifth, watch the Weiner races, enjoy some traditional dancers, walk through the vendors area of crafts and German imports, watch a sand sculpture being made right in front of your eyes, get a picture taken with Krampus and crew, watch the Strongman competition.
Sixth, go to the Glockenspiel as many times as you can and dance & sing your heart out!
Seventh, grab some Authentic German grub for dinner and park yourself in a bier tent to watch some great entertainment. I highly suggest a plate from Das Schnitzel Haus, some pierogi's from the Pierogi Lady, sauerkraut balls from Hey Hey or a pretzel-wrapped bratwurst.
Eighth, make sure you're still drinking beer and take some sips of water in between - you'll appreciate that in the morning.
Ninth, grab a partner and get on the dance floor for the chicken dance and some polka! It doesn't matter if you don't know how to polka, you'll pick it quickly or someone will teach you. The Chardon Polka Band, Alex Meixner and Klabetheads are all my favorites!
Tenth, take lots of pictures to memorialize this great event!
And lastly, get an Uber or have a designated driver to take you home!