Oktoberfest Munich

The world's largest folk festival

Munich's Oktoberfest is the most famous folk festival worldwide and a cultural flagship of the state of Bavaria. On the approximately 42-hectare Theresienwiese in the Bavarian state capital – in the Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt district – over six million guests from all over the world celebrate every year. Despite its international reputation, the "Wiesn" is deeply rooted in Munich's city life and, for many locals, the social highlight of the year.

Origin and History

The history of the festival dates back to 1810: on the occasion of the wedding of Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen, a horse race took place on the Theresienwiese, named after her. From this first celebration, the present-day Oktoberfest, with its large festival tents, the traditional costume and riflemen's parade, and the "Oide Wiesn", which nostalgically revives the historic folk festival, developed over more than two centuries.

The Festival Tents

The centerpiece of Oktoberfest are the approximately 17 large and 21 smaller festival tents. Only the stronger Wiesn beer from the six traditional Munich breweries Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, and Spaten is served. Bavarian specialties such as Hendl (roast chicken), Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle), Steckerlfisch (grilled fish on a stick), Brezn (pretzels), and Ochsenbraten (roast ox) are served. Brass bands provide a festive atmosphere during the day and a lively one in the evening.

Tradition and Highlights

The festival begins on the opening Saturday with the entry of the Wiesn landlords and breweries and the ceremonial tapping of the first keg at 12 p.m. in the Schottenhamel tent: with the cry "O'zapft is'!", the Mayor of Munich releases the first barrel. On the first Sunday, the magnificent traditional costume and riflemen's parade takes place with several thousand participants in historical costumes, floats, and music bands, moving across Munich's city center to the Theresienwiese.

More than Beer Tents

In addition to the tents, there is a vast amusement park with over 100 rides, roller coasters, carousels, and showmen. On the "Oide Wiesn", visitors experience Oktoberfest in historical attire with nostalgic rides and traditional folk music. The family day with reduced prices also makes the festival attractive for families.

Bavarian Identity

Oktoberfest is an expression of lived Bavarian tradition: Dirndl and Lederhosen shape the image, with Gemütlichkeit (coziness) and sociability at the center. For visitors from all over the world, Munich's Wiesn is the gateway to Bavarian culture – and at the same time a unique major event that puts the state capital at the center of the world for a good two weeks.