I'm still here, and still very much enjoying your report. Biergarten has been a "must do" for me ever since my 1st time there in Feb. '93.
Sorry you had "that family" at your table. I have had some good experiences with seating companions there, and some very bad/awkward ones. I try to sit on the "outside/ends" of the table if I can, for quick exits if necessary. I have to say when I've been with a bigger group and people are seated with us (especially if they are solo, like I myself have been many times there), I will go out of my way to make them feel comfortable - why not - doesn't cost anything to be civil and welcoming for God's sake - and they probably feel as awkward as I do, so it feels good to be "the better person" and put them at ease! I had one extended family make me feel so uncomfortable one time, I actually requested to be moved (successfully). The grandfather in that nasty group kept yelling at the server that I was NOT a part of their family, and they were NOT paying for me - as she kept trying to explain the "friendly strangers sitting together" concept of Oktoberfest to this idiot!!
Anyway - glad you enjoyed the food and entertainment as much as I always do!
Looking forward to the rest of your awesome report!!