For the Oktoberfest 2010, smoking in the beer tents will be officially banned, but won't be penalized (normally from 5 to 1000 euros), reports Die Suedeutsche Zeitung. Even if the Bavarian referendum in spring or summer vote for a smoking ban '€“ it would not affect the Oktoberfest.

It would be too late after the referendum in July to inform the organizers about whether there will be a total smoking ban or not in their beer tents. Consequently hey won't have time to plan the required smoking areas and exits with the possibility for patrons to return to their places. This position for Oktoberfest 2010 will be debated in the city council next Tuesday.