Oktoberfest Hannover

Wiesn Atmosphere in Hannover

While the original Munich Oktoberfest takes place on the Theresienwiese, the Wiesn tradition has spread to numerous German cities over the past decades. The Hannover Oktoberfest is one of the largest and most established events of its kind outside of Bavaria. The venue is the Schützenplatz Hannover, which already becomes the main venue for the world's largest Schützenfest in July – thus radiating a folk festival character in both summer and autumn.

Beer Tents and Program

Several beer tents with different profiles form the center of the festival. Live music is on the program: Bavarian folk music, Schlager classics, cover bands, and in the latter half of the festival, increasingly international pop acts. The tents open in the late afternoon and remain open until well after midnight.

Culinary Delights

Classic Oktoberfest specialties are available on the festival grounds: Hendl (roast chicken), Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle), Weißwurst (white sausage), Brezn (pretzels), Käsespätzle (cheese noodles), Schweinebraten (roast pork). In addition, there are typical North German festival foods like Bratwurst, fries, and sweets. The beer is served in the beer tents in the Bavarian tradition from Maßkrugs (liter steins).

Amusement Rides and Carousels

The fairground side of the festival offers carousels, roller coasters, swing boats, haunted houses, and a Ferris wheel. The selection varies from year to year, with major rides from the German fairground association regularly making an appearance.

17 Days of Festival Operation

With a duration of 17 days, from September 26th to October 12th, 2026, the Hannover Oktoberfest is longer than its Munich original, offering a particularly extended festival period. Weekends are particularly busy, while weekdays generally offer a more relaxed festival experience.