How to Have a Safe Oktoberfest

No matter where your Oktoberfest is it is pretty safe to assume that the festivities involve beer. The original Oktoberfest took place in Munich around two hundred years ago as a king's wedding feast and has evolved to be a celebration primarily about beer. The standard beer size is "Ein Mass" which is a liter of beer. As you can imagine, a festival like this makes it easy for you to lose track of how much you're drinking.

I just went to Munich's Oktoberfest a few days ago and I saw a lot of drunk people. Some of them were passed out. Others stumbled home. One unfortunate man was so drunk he decided to have a bit of a fight with an ambulance. He kept hitting it and circling around it. He's lucky he didn't get run over.

Also, most of the really drunk people that I saw were almost completely alone. It really got me thinking how lucky we were. I was in a group of five. We all got home safely without really getting sick. So, I thought I would compile some tips to help you have as safe of an Oktoberfest as possible.

1. One Person Should Stay Sober

During our night in Oktoberfest, I decided to be the one to stay sober. Actually, this wasn't difficult for me because I don't like beer. Having someone with you who doesn't care about getting drunk who is willing to stay sober is very helpful. Not only because you will likely need a person to drive you home, but also because he or she can help regulate people's alcohol consumption and get them medical attention if needed.

2. Count How Much You've Had

No matter how much you drink at these festivals, never lost track of how many. Not every Oktoberfest will have you drinking from a one liter glass. However, no matter how big the portion is it is still easy to lose track. If this happens, your likelihood of getting drunk or even worse, getting sick from all the alcohol, is a lot greater. Coming to terms with how much you've had can help prevent you from overdoing it.

3. Definitely Eat Something

People who don't eat before they drink or while they are drinking often get drunk pretty quickly. It's also a lot better on your body. Eat regular meals during the day and another meal or snack while you're drink. Your goal isn't to pig out but to simply maintain a normal meal schedule. If you normally skip meals, try not to do that on the day where you plan on going to Oktoberfest.

4. Don't Drive Home

This one should be obvious but you'd be surprised. Driving a vehicle while your mental ability is impaired is setting you up for disaster. Instead of drive, take a taxi home or rely on public transportation. The last thing you want to do is get in a car accident or get pulled over while you're drunk.

Oktoberfest is a fun festival no matter where it takes place. Use these tips to help you stay safe.

Source: http://www.oktoberfest.de/de/