Getting an evening table at Schottenhamel is considered one of the hardest reservations at Oktoberfest. Yet every year some visitors manage to secure one.

This case study illustrates how a successful reservation might happen.

Step 1: Choosing the Tent Early

The first step was deciding on Schottenhamel months before Oktoberfest.

Because it hosts the opening ceremony and attracts a lively crowd, it was the ideal tent for a first visit.

Step 2: Monitoring Reservation Windows

Reservation announcements usually appear in spring.

Tracking tent booking updates allowed the reservation request to be submitted immediately when forms opened.

Step 3: Submitting Flexible Dates

Instead of requesting only one date, several weekday options were submitted.

This increased the chances of being assigned a table.

Step 4: Receiving Confirmation

A confirmation email arrived weeks later confirming a weekday evening reservation.

The reservation included voucher requirements for the table.

Step 5: Preparing for the Visit

Before Oktoberfest began, the group:

• confirmed travel dates
• distributed vouchers
• planned arrival time

Arriving early ensured the table was not lost.

Lessons Learned

Key takeaways include:

• flexibility improves success
• submitting early helps
• weekday reservations are easier than weekends

Many successful reservations follow similar patterns.