4. Use a blue-and-white color scheme
The national colors of Bavaria, where the real Oktoberfest takes place, are blue and white. So incorporate this traditional color scheme for your decor and your Oktoberfest will be extra authentic. (German guests or those familiar with German culture will be especially impressed!)
5. Wear traditional Oktoberfest outfits
As the host, it’s up to you to set the tone for your party guests. One way to do so is by encouraging them to come dressed up in traditional Oktoberfest outfits, which include dresses called dirndls and short leather pants called lederhosen.
6. Transform your backyard/outdoor venue into a beer garden
What is a beer garden, you might ask? According to Vine Pair, they’re “outdoor areas where beer and food are served in a communal setting. Often attached to a brewery or tavern, these neighborly spaces have been popular in Germany since the 1800s (some argue the 1500s).”
Check out this guide to turning your own space into a beer garden, with lots of easy yet effective tips for a transformation!
7. Put together an Oktoberfest-themed playlist
This is one of our favorite Oktoberfest party ideas! If you mix some German songs (especially drinking songs) into your playlist for the party, you’ll be well on your way to creating a fun and authentic atmosphere.
To get you started putting your playlist together, here are 10 songs you might actually hear in a Munich beer tent.
8. Make some Oktoberfest desserts
From apple strudel to black forest cake, there are all kinds of classic German desserts that would absolutely take your Oktoberfest party up a few notches and make your guests very happy.
To help you choose which desserts you’d like to serve, Serious Eats suggests 8 sweet recipes that would work perfectly.
9. Play Oktoberfest trivia
Looking to get a little competitive at your party? Have your guests play Oktoberfest trivia! Here’s one example of an Oktoberfest trivia game you might want to use, but there are others out there as well.
10. Have plenty of lighting for outdoor parties
It’s fair to expect that your Oktoberfest party will probably continue after dark. So if you’re having your party outdoors in a backyard or other such venue, make sure you have lighting prepared so you’re not all stuck in the dark once the sun goes down.
As a bonus, hanging up some lighting is also an opportunity for additional decoration. After all, string and globe lights look so pretty hanging from trees or other structures.
It’s never too early to start planning when tacos are involved: check out our Cinco de Mayo party ideas next!
