The basics

What are those dresses the ladies are wearing? How do you sing a proper Ein Prosit? What’s the deal with these buttons? Fear not—we’ve got you covered with the basics of Oktoberfest.

Oooompah!

Traditions

While the decades have changed since our beginning, the traditions remain the same.

The songs

From our favorite german drinking song, to a diddy written JUST for our beautiful fest—with our handy guide you won’t miss an “Ein!” or a “Drei!”

The lederhosen

\ ˈlā-dər-ˌhō-zᵊn \: leather shorts often with suspenders worn especially in Bavaria… and La Crosse

Traditionally worn by the royal family and grenadier corps, these leather shorts are both stylish and breathable. In recent years, common fest-goers have donned their own lederhosen to get the true Oktoberfest experience.

The dirndl

\ ˈdərn-dᵊl \: a dress style with tight bodice, short sleeves, low neck, and gathered skirt

Dirndl come in all styles, from the waschdirndl for everyday wear to the festtagsdirndl for special occasions.  Whatever the style, careful how you tie your apron, ladies. The apron bow lets everybody know your marital status and availability. Tie it on the right-hand side and you’re taken. Wearing it on the left means you’re single and ready to mingle. Don’t care to broadcast whether you’re in the market? Just tie it in the middle.

Don't be a sauerkraut