What is Gemütlichkeit?

Where you tie your dirndl apron tells others about your relationship status.

Tied on the Left

If the knot of the apron is tied on the left front side, it means you are single.

Tied on the Right

If the knot of the apron is tied to the right front side, it means you are married or in a relationship.

Tied in the Middle

If the knot of the apron is tied in the middle front, your status is no one's business.

Tied in the Back Center

If the knot of the apron is tied in the middle back, it means you are a widow, a waitress or a child.

A stein-holding contest (Masskrugstemmen)  is a popular activity at Oktoberfest or any German fest. There are official rules. You can read the complete rules from the US Stein Holding Association. Some of the basics follow.

Arm Straight in Front of You

Hold the stein straight away from your body. The top of the stein is even with your shoulder. The arm is perpendicular to the torso. The arm is also straight; there is no bend in the elbow.

Hold the Stein By the Handle

The Stein is held by the handle with the glass away from you. The thumb is on the side, not on the top. All four fingers are inside the handle OR three fingers are inside the handle and the pinky is curled in under the handle. The pinky is not braced against the glass.

Do Not Arch your Back

Ideally, your torso is perfectly upright. It is allowed to arch the back slightly, but the waist should not extend beyond the elbow.

Don't Spill A Drop

ANY spillage will disqualify you.

You Must Be in the Proper Competition Position

When the contest begins, contestants are allowed up to 60 seconds to fully attain the proper position. Once in position, you cannot leave the position or you will be disqualified. If the stein dips or raises above the shoulder, you're out. If you spill, you're out. Arch your back too much, you're out. Move your thumb to the top, you're out. Move the stein left or right, you're out.