Do Minnesotans Know About This Oktoberfest Tradition?

Oktoberfest is that festive time of year when the weather cools and the beer flows, with prost as far as the blurry, beer-goggled eyes can see. It also used to be what folks used before Tinder digitalized our other (non-beer) thirsts.

Something a low-key as the location of a bow can have romantic implications. Did you know (dontcha know!)?

The Story of the Dirndl

Call her Mrs Liam Neeson, cuz she's TAKEN (Getty Images)

A dirndl is a full-length apron, and it's traditionally worn in Germany (and appropriated for American Oktoberfests). There's a bow on the dirndl, and where it's tied can indicate her relationship status.

Bow on the Right Side

That's a NEIN from me, dawg... (Getty Images)

she's married or in a serious relationship

Bow on the Left Side

Is that a stein in your pocket or are you...oh, it's a stein. Weirdo. (Getty Images)

she's single and ready to prost the night away!

Bow in the Middle (front)

(Belches confusedly) Getty Images

she's a virgin and/or a child. Proceed with extreme caution (OR: just don't).

Bow in the Middle (back)

Couldn't find an actual example, so I'll use this pic for...reasons... (Getty Images)

she's either a widow...or just waitressing. Best to respectfully ask, hoss.

Of course, these are German traditions. Americans like to half-ass appropriate other cultures as an excuse to get hammered (*cough* St. Patrick's Day, Cinco de Mayo...), so just because a gal at your local Oktoberfest celebration is wearing a bow on her left side doesn't necessarily mean she's looking for love.

Per everything in life, make sure there's clear (and sober) consent before you proceed.

Get our free mobile app

H/T: Rare Dirndl

25 Highest-Rated Breweries in Minnesota

To help you discover some of the best local brews, Stacker put together a list of Minnesota's top-rated breweries based on Tripadvisor data. Tripadvisor's rankings are a mix of several factors, including overall rating, user reviews, and page traffic. This means that even a brewery with a perfect 5 out of 5 rating might be outranked by one with a 4 out of 5 if it has more reviews or higher visibility.

Gallery Credit: Minnesota Now

Filed Under: Dating, relationships, Oktoberfest