Traditional dress – dirndl for women, lederhosen or traditional suit for men. But even without traditional wear, nobody's out of place at most Kirchweihs. Those who choose a dirndl should go for a classic, traditionally styled look – very modern or experimental models can quickly feel displaced at a Kirchweih. A midi dirndl in a classic colour is the safe choice.

Both work. The Franconian traditional dress is strongly rooted locally and preferred by many Kerwa regulars, especially in Upper and Middle Franconia. A classic Bavarian or Austrian dirndl also fits the Kerwa mood and isn't felt to be out of place – particularly at open, tourist-frequented Kirchweihs. If you're unsure, you're always right with a traditional midi dirndl in a muted colour.

The Kirchweih is significantly more traditional and locally rooted than Oktoberfest. In Munich a strong trend towards colourful modern dirndls has emerged – at a Kirchweih most visitors stick with classic colours, traditional cuts and authentic looks. A dirndl that looks good at the Kirchweih also works at the Wiesn – the other way round, a trend dirndl from Munich can feel out of place at a Franconian Kerwa.

No, there's no dress code at any Kirchweih. Many guests wear everyday clothing, especially on weekdays or at smaller village festivals. A dirndl is welcome but not required. If you choose to wear traditional dress, it's usually perceived positively – especially if you hit the traditional aesthetic. First-timers at a Kirchweih are in good company with a classically cut midi dirndl in a muted colour.

It depends on the quality. A cheap throwaway dirndl from the discounter is often already warped after one Kirchweih and doesn't fit anymore. A good, mid-priced dirndl from about €150 on the other hand lasts for years – and afterwards can be worn at the Wiesn, a folk festival, the spring festival or a traditional wedding. The cost per wear becomes very low over the years. Our recommendation: if at all, better invest once in quality than repeatedly in throwaway goods.