Looking for authentic Oktoberfest tunes that will transport you straight to a Munich beer tent? The Appalachian Freunde Polka Band is here to share the essential songs that make Oktoberfest the world's greatest celebration!

There's something magical about Oktoberfest music that transforms ordinary people into bench-dancing, stein-raising revelers who can't help but sing along (even when they don't know the words). Whether you're planning your trip to Munich or hosting your own backyard Biergarten, knowing these classic Oktoberfest songs will take your celebration to the next level.

What Makes Oktoberfest Music Special?

Authentic Oktoberfest music blends traditional German brass band styles with modern party classics. Before 6 PM in Munich's beer tents, you'll hear the traditional "oom-pah-pah" played by house brass bands. After 6 PM, the volume cranks up and more modern, upbeat tunes take over, creating the perfect atmosphere for dancing on benches with thousands of your newest friends.

Must-Know Oktoberfest Songs

Here are the essential Oktoberfest songs you'll definitely want to know:

1. "Ein Prosit"

The undisputed champion of Oktoberfest songs! This short tune plays approximately every 15 minutes in Munich's beer tents. When you hear it, raise your stein, pretend you know the words, and get ready to toast. After the song ends with "Ein, zwei, drei, g'suffa!" (One, two, three, drink up!), it's time to take a hearty swig of your beer.

2. "In München Steht Ein Hofbräuhaus"

This beloved anthem celebrates Munich's famous Hofbräuhaus. The only phrase you really need to know is "Eins, zwei, g'suffa!" - you'll catch on quickly when thousands of people shout it in unison!

3. "Zillertaler Hochzeitsmarsch"

When this instrumental German jam starts playing, it's physically impossible to sit still. The music speeds up faster and faster, creating an irresistible energy that perfectly captures the Oktoberfest spirit.

4. "Fliegerlied" (The Flying Dance)

Originally a children's song about animals, "Fliegerlied" has become an Oktoberfest staple complete with its own dance moves. Learning these moves is practically required before leaving Munich!

5. "Lichtensteiner Polka"

This easygoing polka tune is perfect for daytime Oktoberfest celebrations. With its catchy "Ja! Ja! Ja!" chorus, it's easy for everyone to join in.

6. "Sweet Caroline"

This Neil Diamond classic has found a special place at Oktoberfest celebrations. When the chorus hits with "Sweet Caroline, bah bah bah," you'll find yourself arm-in-arm with strangers, swaying and singing at the top of your lungs. It's become an unexpected but beloved part of the modern Oktoberfest playlist.

7. "Das Esellied" (The Donkey Song)

This traditional German folk song brings loads of laughter and participation with its simple chorus and playful themes. The song tells the story of a donkey, and fest-goers love to mimic donkey sounds during key parts of the song – perfect for when everyone's a few beers in!

8. "Einen Stern"

Originally released by an Austrian DJ over a decade ago, this love song has become a staple at Oktoberfest. Despite its sentimental lyrics, the melody transforms into the perfect backdrop for raising your stein and swaying with friends.

9. "Take Me Home, Country Roads"

John Denver's classic about West Virginia has inexplicably become one of the most beloved songs at Oktoberfest. The simple explanation? Great drinking songs transcend borders, and there's something magical about thousands of people from around the world singing this together.

10. "Living Next Door to Alice"

The Oktoberfest version of this Smokie classic adds some entertaining call-and-response elements between chorus lines. It's another example of how international hits become transformed into essential Oktoberfest anthems.

11. "Hey Baby (If You'll Be My Girl)"

There isn't an Oktoberfest-goer alive who doesn't know the chorus to this song. Simple, catchy, and impossible to forget no matter how many liters of beer you've consumed.

12. "99 Luftballons"

Nena's iconic '80s hit "99 Luftballons" has become a staple in Oktoberfest tents. This German new wave classic gets everyone singing along to its catchy melody, even if they only know the chorus. When this song plays, you'll see beer steins raised high and voices joining together in musical celebration.

13. "Sierra Madre"

This nostalgic German song holds a special place in Oktoberfest tradition. Played in the Hacker-Pschorr tent at closing time on the final night of the festival, revelers wave sparklers while singing along to this bittersweet anthem that marks the end of the celebrations.

14. "Chicken Dance"

No Oktoberfest playlist would be complete without the world-famous "Chicken Dance." The Appalachian Freunde Polka Band even features an 8-foot inflatable chicken costume during their performances of this crowd favorite! It's impossible to resist joining in when this tune starts playing.

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Experience Authentic Oktoberfest Music with Appalachian Freunde Polka Band

Want to bring the authentic Oktoberfest experience to your event? The Appalachian Freunde Polka Band (AF Polka Band) brings decades of polka music and Oktoberfest experience to the Southeastern United States. Formed in 2023 by Diane and Mike Fields and Adam Bennett, this talented trio delivers traditional favorites alongside Oktoberfest party tunes that will have everyone dancing.

As Chris Vox, a retiring Fest Meister from Hendersonville, NC, puts it: "Adam and the Appalachian Freunde Polka Band somehow emerged from behind the stage as a complete surprise with an 8 ft inflatable chicken costume for the chicken dance... This power polka trio played for a full 45 minutes while the crowd dispersed during the end of our event. Utterly professional and a remarkable amount of Fest sound from all eras out of three people. Wunderbar!"

Planning Your Own Oktoberfest?

If you're hosting an Oktoberfest celebration, corporate event, or brewery party, authentic music is essential for creating that special Bavarian atmosphere. The AF Polka Band's performances include traditional favorites, Oktoberfest party tunes, and even American rock pieces that guarantee to satisfy dedicated polka fans while helping others discover a newfound appreciation for the genre.

Check out AF Polka Band's impressive 2024 schedule, which includes performances at breweries, corporate events, and Oktoberfest celebrations across North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.

Ready to bring authentic Oktoberfest music to your event? Book online at afpolka.com or call (828) 231-4121.

Prost!