Is Travelling to Germany for Oktoberfest Really Worth it?

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Germany has always been a tourist-friendly destination, with peak visitors around September. More than 34 million tourists from around the world visit Germany to explore the top tourist attractions, such as the Neuschwanstein Castle, the Black Forest, and the MASSIVE Oktoberfest. Among these, Oktoberfest takes the lead, attracting more than 6 million visitors to explore the beer craze, taste Bavarian pretzels, and experience lederhosen & dirndl warmth. It has a huge global, economic, and cultural impact not only for Germans but Americans, Canadians, and others as well. But the real question is, “Is Traveling to Germany for Oktoberfest worth it?”

Before you start daydreaming about beer and pretzels, let's cut through the noise and determine if this festival lives up to its wild reputation. So, grab a seat to explore whether Oktoberfest in Germany is worth the fuss or just another overblown party to separate fact from fiction. 

7 Reasons Why Is German Oktoberfest Worth Attending

Visiting Germany, at least for the first time, to experience Oktoberfest isn’t a bad deal. The Bavarian culture is at its fullest display during this season. You can have all major attractions confined to a single Munich ground, be it the traditional dirndl dress & lederhosen, the famous chicken dance, the Ompah bands, or the mayors and celebs. 

1. Festival Highlights

The Beer Tents at the festival ground offer a range of bold and mellow brews, creating a vibrant hub of laughter. Traditional music featuring Oompah bands and folk tunes sets the festival's lively tone. Culinary Delights bring Bavarian cuisine to life, from classic pretzels to signature treats. It's a celebration of diverse tastes and experiences that promise unforgettable moments. Take advantage of the joy-filled vibe at this spectacular event!

2. A Symphony of Brews

Oktoberfest extends beyond its beer-centric reputation; it evolves into a haven for attendees, especially those with a discerning taste for the art of brewing. Munich's renowned breweries take center stage, showcasing many brews catering to various preferences. Oktoberfest's beer offerings celebrate craftsmanship and innovation from the timeless allure of classic lagers, which echo with tradition, to the avant-garde creations that push the boundaries of brewing.

3. Connect Globally in a Local Setting

Oktoberfest is a global convergence. A diverse local and international crowd converges, creating a cultural mosaic where conversations flow in different languages. It's an opportunity to connect, make friends, and share the joy of this iconic celebration with a worldwide community. Rides, charming stalls, and nostalgic games add extra excitement, transporting you to an era where celebration took center stage.

4. Groove to Live Beats and Bavarian Tunes

The entertainment at Oktoberfest takes center stage as the headlining attraction. Whether it's the lively foot-tapping beats of Bavarian folk music or the dynamic performances by live bands orchestrating a symphony of celebration within the spirited beer tents, the festival ensures that each moment resonates with an irresistible and infectious energy.

5. An Inclusive Family Fiesta

Oktoberfest is indeed family-friendly! It's an inclusive celebration, allowing families to create everlasting memories together. It offers different rides and attractions for children to feel inclusive. Tuesdays are the reserved “family days,” offering fun at even lower prices. Families and kids can enjoy puppet theater, sky rides, and many other fun activities. 

Stats indicate that the primary concern of more than 59% of German parents while traveling is to ensure that their children are entertained during the journey. Oktoberfest is the best holiday destination for entertaining families and children alike with its fun rides and shows. 

6. Step Back in Time with Enchanting Attractions

Oktoberfest unfurls itself as an enchanting odyssey through the annals of history. The nostalgic spins of classic fair rides, the delightful charm from charming stalls, and the engaging games that bring back memories of the past.

In this unique festival, the celebration takes on a vibrant, living history, sharing tales of joy and revelry. In this evocative realm, the essence of celebration undergoes a metamorphosis, weaving into a vibrant, living historical tapestry that unravels tales of revelry.

7. Cultural Experience

Cultural immersion at the festival thrives among international attendees and local Bavarians. Engage in vibrant conversations, forging connections that transcend borders. Witness the richness of tradition through Historical Parades, unveiling stories from Bavaria's past. 

As the sun sets, experience unique events exclusive to the festival, adding a touch of magic to your cultural journey. This event is more than a celebration; it's a living canvas blending diverse cultures, shared connections, and the beauty of old and new traditions. 

Oktoberfest Iconic Festival Plan

Here's a casual take on the Oktoberfest plan:

Day 1: Let the Party Begin!

● Good morning -  Roll into Munich and get settled at your spot.

● Afternoon -  Kick off the festival with a bang at the grand opening ceremony.

● Evening - Dive into the beer tents, soak up the Bavarian tunes, and start tasting those Oktoberfest beers.

Day 2: Soaking in the Vibes

● Good morning - Get a dose of Bavarian culture with the fabulous parades.

● Afternoon - Chow down on some authentic Bavarian grub from the festival stalls.

● Evening - See what Munich's nightlife offers or check out some quirky festival events.

Day 3: Ride the Thrill Wave

● Good morning - Take on the carnival rides; they're a must!

● Afternoon - Jam out to Oompah bands and folk tunes.

● Evening - Dance like no one's watching in the beer tents and soak in the festival buzz.

Day 4: Easy Breezy

● Good morning - Take a chilled-out stroll and snag some souvenirs.

● Afternoon - Treat yourself to Oktoberfest's unique dishes.

● Evening - Wind down at a laid-back beer tent or catch a cultural event to wrap up your Oktoberfest adventure.

Feel free to shake things up based on what feels suitable for you. Enjoy the ride! 

Conclusion

Heading to Germany for Oktoberfest in Munich is worth it, even if you need to do some planning. After all, it's one of the biggest and most famous festivals globally, and experiencing it at least once is a must. Oktoberfest in Munich is this incredible mix of cultural stuff, entertainment, and seriously delicious food. 

But here's the deal. Don't forget about big crowds, figuring out where everything is, and how much everything costs. Have to keep those in mind to rock the party at this lively celebration! Tourists can’t really tick Germany off their travel list if they haven't been to Oktoberfest. So, reserve a special place in your travel journal and explore the country and it’s festival for a lifetime experience. 

BIR throws its support to the DSWD & NCDA in their fight against Fake PWD IDs

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BIR will monitor establishments which do not comply with the documentation & procedural requirements under R.R. No. 5-2017 in relation to tax deductions claimed for PWD-related transactions

Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. showed his support to the privileges granted to Persons with Disability (PWD) and his strong stance against fraudulent practices involving fake PWD identification cards (IDs) during the press conference held last March 21, 2025 with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA). These privileges are crucial for empowering PWDs, ensuring their inclusion, and easing the financial burdens associated with their conditions. The BIR, in collaboration with other government agencies, remains steadfast in its commitment to uphold the integrity of tax incentives designed for PWDs.

"The BIR expresses its full support to all legitimate PWDs. All tax privileges given by law to PWDs will be fully implemented by the BIR. However, the BIR will be strict with businesses which do not even follow the basic documentation and procedural requirements under Revenue Regulation No. 5-2017," Commissioner Lumagui stated.

Commissioner Lumagui also expressed the agency's serious concern over the proliferation of fake PWD IDs, labeling this malpractice as a tax evasion scheme which causes the government significant revenue losses. Thus, the BIR is initiating a nationwide crackdown to identify and prosecute offenders involved in these illicit practices. Personalities found guilty of producing, selling, or using fake PWD IDs shall face criminal charges and the corresponding fines and imprisonment penalties.

"The BIR also supports the unified PWD ID and database program of the DSWD. Through this program, the BIR can check whether or not the tax deductions submitted by businesses come from legitimate PWD transactions. A data sharing agreement between the relevant government agencies can provide a streamlined approach to fighting the tax leakage caused by fake PWD IDs," Commissioner Lumagui stated.

Under Republic Act No. 7277, as amended by RA Nos. 9442 and 10754, establishments providing the mandated 20% discount and value-added tax (VAT) exemption to qualified PWDs are entitled to claim these discounts as tax deduction. To legitimately claim these deductions, establishment must adhere to the documentation and procedural requirements provided in Revenue Regulations No. 5-2017. Each sale transaction must be properly documented, reflecting the name of the PWD and their PWD ID number.

Moreover, all transactions with PWDs must be supported by appropriate documentation, including duly issued invoices reflecting the discount granted. These documents serve as evidence of compliance with tax laws and regulations. By diligently following these guidelines, establishments can effectively support the welfare of PWDs while ensuring compliance with existing tax laws, and benefiting from the allowable deductions.

"We encourage the public to report Fake PWD ID manufacturers, printers, sellers, and users. The sale and use of fake PWD IDs is not only tax evasion, it is also an act of disrespect against legitimate PWDs. A PWD ID is not some common discount card that is available to the general public. It carries a discount granted by law, for the improvement of the well-being and easing of the financial burden of PWDs," Commissioner Lumagui stated.

*Image from Rappler

Mambajao’s Next-Gen 911: Revolutionizing Public Safety for a Secure Summer Season

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As the summer season approaches and the breathtaking island of Camiguin prepares to welcome an influx of tourists, the Municipality of Mambajao is stepping up in a big way. With its newly activated next-generation 911 emergency response system, Mambajao is not just ensuring safety—it is setting a new benchmark for public safety in Northern Mindanao.

On February 27, 2025, Mambajao became the first municipality in Northern Mindanao to implement a world-class, next-generation 911 system, significantly enhancing emergency response capabilities. The activation of this cutting-edge system marks a milestone not only for the island province but also for the future of public safety across the country.

A Game-Changer for Public Safety

This next-generation 911-enabled command center is a technological leap forward. It is equipped with advanced features, including real-time location tracking, automated incident ticketing, and seamless emergency call routing. Gone are the days of delayed response—now, when a distress call is made, it is immediately picked up by responders within seconds, and help arrives in as little as three to five minutes.

According to Mambajao Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (DRRMO) Raquel Ranara, emergency calls in the municipality have significantly reduced response times, making life-saving interventions more efficient than ever before.

"Wherever emergencies may happen in Mambajao, island guests and residents can feel secure knowing that help is only minutes away," she assured.

A Vision Turned Reality

Mayor Yñigo Jesus Romualdo, who led the activation ceremony alongside Congressman Jurdin Jesus Romualdo, expressed his pride and optimism in seeing this visionary project come to life.

"Finally, we have this next-generation advanced 911 system for emergency response and assistance. It’s really here, and it’s really happening. Our plan for the municipality is turning into reality, one by one," the mayor declared.

Mambajao began its journey toward a smarter, more efficient emergency response system in October 2024, when it established a state-of-the-art command center in partnership with NGA 911 Philippines, the local subsidiary of NGA 911, LLC, a global leader in emergency communication technology headquartered in California, USA.

This partnership has placed Mambajao in an elite league of municipalities across the country that have adopted the world-class Next Generation 911 (NG911) system, joining Morong, Rizal; Alaminos City, Pangasinan; Cebu City; Cagayan de Oro City; Navotas City; and Bustos, Bulacan in pioneering this transformation.

Innovative Features to Elevate Emergency Response

The Mambajao 911 command center is already streamlining emergency workflows through an automated incident ticketing system, ensuring swift coordination and minimizing errors. However, this is just the beginning. Over the next few months, even more advanced features will be integrated, including:

Caller’s precise location tracking – Narrowing the search radius to just five yards with 90% accuracy, allowing responders to pinpoint emergencies faster.

Real-time photo and video transmission – Enabling callers to send visual evidence for more accurate situational assessments.

CCTV interoperability – Seamlessly integrating surveillance systems to enhance monitoring and response.

Auto-transcription technology – Converting live and recorded audio into text within minutes for better documentation and analysis.

According to Robert Llaguno, Country Head of NGA 911 Philippines, the system is designed to provide an omnichannel emergency response that integrates various technologies, including instant messaging applications and local government CCTV systems.

"This means we can provide first responders with enhanced location and situational awareness, ensuring they have all the necessary information at their fingertips," Llaguno explained.

National Support for Faster Emergency Response

The push for next-gen 911 technology is in line with the national government’s efforts to modernize emergency services across the Philippines. During the 7th General Assembly of the League of Provinces of the Philippines on February 7, 2025, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Juanito “Jonvic” Remulla urged local government executives to fully support the implementation of the 911 system.

The E911 National Office, through Executive Director Francis Fajardo, also emphasized that state-of-the-art emergency response command centers are essential in providing swift, professional, and accurate crisis management.

"Cutting-edge emergency response systems are only as good as the well-trained and dedicated personnel behind them. Mambajao’s responders are now equipped with the best tools to handle emergencies with precision," Fajardo remarked.

Ensuring a Safe and Enjoyable Summer for All

With thousands of tourists expected to visit Camiguin’s famed white-sand beaches, hot and cold springs, and historic volcanoes in the coming months, Mambajao’s next-gen 911 system ensures that safety remains a top priority.

As a tourist-favorite destination, Mambajao understands that rapid emergency response can mean the difference between life and death. Whether it’s a medical emergency, vehicular accident, or a distress call from an adventure-seeker exploring the island’s rugged landscapes, help will now arrive faster than ever before.

This is not just an upgrade—it is a transformation in public safety, bringing peace of mind to both residents and visitors.

"Mambajao is more than just a beautiful destination; it is now a beacon of safety, security, and innovation," Mayor Romualdo affirmed.

As the island readies itself for the peak of the summer season, one thing is certain: Mambajao is not just welcoming tourists—it is protecting them like never before.