Introduction to Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany--part 2

The Oktoberfest fairgrounds holds 14 huge beer tents that each can seat about 6,000 people. Six of the tents are operated by the Munich breweries that provide all beer for Oktoberfest--Hacker Pschorr, Hofbräu, Paulaner, Spaten, Lowenbrau, and Augustiner. Beer is traditionally served in one-liter krugs (steins). An exception is Weissbier (wheat beer), which is usually served in tall, fluted half-liter glasses. Currently it costs about US$11 cash for one mas (liter) of beer. Each tent is a temporary structure, and each has its own unique character. Entry is free, and most tents feature food, music, and picnic tables and benches that fill quickly. Groups of two to three can usually squeeze in, but larger groups should reserve a table in advance or head for one of the smaller, less crowded tents. Learn more about the tents at Oktoberfest.