5 things you should know before going to Oktoberfest

The first Oktoberfest, in 1810, actually was held in October. Today, it's still known as Oktoberfest, but opens each year in September. The reason for that is Bavaria's bad weather. It's even been known to snow in October — which would be a disaster for the festival. The world-famous beer celebration was moved up to September in 1904.

To bridge the language barrier, it's a good idea to learn a few words in Bavarian dialect before going to Oktoberfest. "Servus" is a simple greeting. More difficult is "hock di her da," which you can say to offer someone else a spot at the table. If you have a communication block, try "host mi" for "do you understand?" And goodbye is "pfiat di," which is short for "may God watch over you."

Dancing on the benches is not only tolerated — it's encouraged. But you shouldn't stand on the tables or take your clothes off. Another taboo is stealing beer mugs. Beware, thieves will be prosecuted. Nevertheless, they are still a beloved souvenir among many visitors. Each year, tens of thousands of beer mugs disappear. The really big half-liter mugs are particularly popular.

You can show up in jeans and a t-shirt or in a traditional Bavarian outfit; just make sure your style is consistent. If you wear a dirndl, though, watch out: a bow on the left means you're single and a bow on the right means you're not. But if the bow is in the middle, you out yourself as a virgin. Only widows and servers wear their bows in the back.

Not only does it contain more alcohol than your average beer, it tastes a bit milder and less bitter. That makes the beverage of choice at Oktoberfest — known as Wiesn beer — particularly dangerous! Some 7.5 million liters were drunk at last year's festival. This year, the stuff is being sold at record speed — even though the price has risen to €11.40 ($13.40) per liter.