Oktoberfest seats

I understand what @Clemente285 is talking about, and to be honest, if you don't have an in for seats you're kind of screwed. He's talking about evening seating which is pretty much completely reserved, usually by businesses (my uncle used to race for BMW, they get a block pf seats every year at the Paulaner tent I believe) but also by individuals who do it every year (kind of like season tickets). You might be able to worm your way in if you can be there at the witching hour when the first of the groups are coming in but you'll need to really sweet talk your way in with them because everyone in their group knows you can't just let people join. The other option is just to wait. People will be leaving and then they'll let others in, but it sucks to be standing outside without a beer waiting. If you're going to go that route pick one of the lesser tents. Prost!

 

If you're going for work in Munich, the people you're working for may have company reservations, otherwise --

Go early when it's less crazy and open tables are plenty -- and enjoy the calm. If you see a reserved table and it's far from the reserved time, you should be able to sit down and order a beer. If the people with the reservation don't show after an hour past the reservation time, the table is free game.

At least -- this is how it worked in years past. Good luck.

 

If it's just the 2 of you, enter a tent, find a waiter or waitress , ask for help with 2 seats, and perhaps grease their palm a bit .. seats can always be had ..

30+ year OFest veteran. .

Prosit!!

 

Going on a Sunday night shouldn't be that bad. Even showing up mid afternoon there should be lots of seats available, depends a bit on the weather. Small groups (2-4) are not hard to traverse. As @Bierman9 suggests, ask a waitress for help and include an extra 20 Euros on your 1st beer/food order and you should be good to go all night.