The major tents with reserved seating book out months in advance. Without a reservation you can still go (standing areas and non-reserved seats exist), but you risk not getting a spot in a tent — especially on weekends. If you want a seated table in a big tent like Hofbräuzelt or Augustiner, you need to book it well ahead of time through the official operators.
Some tent operators only sell reservations in packages that include food and drink vouchers. This is normal and still worth it.
There are 17 large tents and 21 smaller tents on the grounds. Each has its own character and associated brewery. Here are the main ones worth knowing about:
Oktoberfest isn't just tents — the whole Theresienwiese is a fairground. Massive roller coasters, ghost trains, a giant Ferris wheel with views across Munich, carnival games, and food stalls selling everything from churros to roast oxen. The Bayern Tower (traditional swing ride) is iconic. Even if you skip the beer tents entirely, there's a full festival to explore.
Entry to the festival grounds is free — you only pay for beer, food, and rides.
Lederhosen or at minimum smart-casual clothes. Cash (some stalls don't take card). A portable phone charger. Comfortable shoes (you'll be standing for hours on concrete). Jacket for the evening — it gets cold after dark in late September.