I've done the beer winch thing and can testify that being in a pile of beer-soaked non-english speaking nymphodites is one of the most spectacular experiences ever. Don't go to Munich for Octoberfest tho, you gotta hit the small country fest to appreciate the overall spirit, as it is intended. The fest in Munich is a joke.
There is an Octoberfest in New Brunsfels, Texas. Small town near San Antonio that was settled by a lot of German immigrants in the 1800's. Their Texas accents might be foreign enough for you.