Munich: Wearing traditional costumes - not just for Oktoberfest

Strolling over the "Summer in the City"

Getting into the traditional costume and out onto Theresienwiese, is what we look forward to most every year. Even before you get in, you can hear and even smell it - the Oktoberfest! Despite Corona, we don't have to do without the smell of almonds and screams from the Free-Fall-Tower this year, because luckily this year we have the "Summer in the City"! Many places in Munich are celebrating joie de vivre with rides, stalls and a colorful program - for instance at the Olympiapark. Swing into the Dirndl or Lederhosn, join friends or family and walk in with it. The chain carousel, the apron swings and the Charivari jingles with every step - what we have missed! With a bag of almonds in our hands, the "Gspusi" in our arms and colorful lights around us, it suddenly feels like magic: The Wiesngefühl.

Oktoberfest feeling in the big wheel at Königsplatz

The Ferris wheel is to the Oktoberfest what Obazda is to the Brezn. Though this year, one of them is in an impressive setting - right at the Königsplatz! It's situated right in front of the Propyläen, guaranteeing a unique backdrop for souvenir photos in traditional costume. It is also arguably the most romantic place in the city. From the top, you have an unprecedented view of the city center, and below, you can watch the hustle and bustle from the steps of the antique collection. Hungry for more? Why not take a ride on the chain carousel and treat yourself to a refreshment at one of the many stalls afterwards? With bratwurst, crêpes or chocolate fruits in your belly, you can end a wonderful day in traditional costume.

Rides and more at the Trachtival in the Werksviertel

Perhaps, the ferris wheel is not enough and you could use some action? Then grab your skirt, tie your Haferl shoes and hop over to the Werksviertel! The Trachtival is ongoing until 25 October. Even from a distance you can see the white Ferris wheel Umadum, which is just the prelude to a great fun ride. As the "Wild Mouse" rattles, in the freefall tower "HangOver" you rush down from a height of 85 meters, while "Jumper" challenges you to a speedy ride. If you prefer a more leisure ride, the historic chain carousel is the right one for you. For the little Trachtler, there is a children's carousel.

"I would like to see you airing your Lederhosn in the plant district," says Clemens Baumgärtner, the speaker for Labor and Economy. Those who don't have any yet, can get Dirndls, Lederhosen and accessories in the newly opened traditional costume pop-up store. Freshly dressed, you can enjoy atmospheric Oktoberfest music in front of the autumn stage on Knödelplatz.

The Bavarian Friday at Theresienwiese

Wearing traditional costume differently: If you would like to do more of wearing traditional costumes than eating and taking a ride, you should look forward to Fridays at Theresienwiese. Till September 25th, the Trachtenfreitag will be taking place there. We start at 6 pm with a Wiesn-Wadl-Workout, to make you look good next time wearing Dirndl and Lederhosen.

At 7 p.m, dancing starts: With social distancing, the dancing master will show you how to do Bavarian Lince Dance - like combined typical Bavarian dance steps with some American elements. Enough for now? Then you deserve a break in the Palmengarten at Theresienwiese. The stalls at Theresienwiese offer snacks and cold drinks - so cheers!

This is what counts for Dirndl and Lederhosen

Of course, not all Dirndls are the same and not all Lederhosn either. For the ladies' costume, the right length, matching dirndl blouse, the right underwear and beautiful accessories are important. Last but not least, this question must be answered: On what side should the bow be tied?

The question doesn't arise for men, but there is also a lot to know about leather pants - what fits best, what about shirt and gilet, what are the right shoes and do you need "loferl"? Even the youngest of children will look great in traditional costume - children's costumes are simply an enchanting eye-catcher!

Do you need some more inspiration or have something special in mind already? Then take a look at the Wiesnshop - you'll definitely find something here! Whoever wants to be perfectly styled in Corona times, you can get matching traditional costume masks here.

Text: Saskia Ziegler