Oktoberfest in Munich is not just Germany’s largest festival — it’s the world’s biggest beer celebration. Held every year in Munich, Bavaria, this iconic event brings together millions of visitors from around the world.
The first Oktoberfest took place in 1810, celebrating the royal wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. Since then, it has grown into a two-week cultural phenomenon that blends tradition, joy, and community spirit.
Every fall, Munich transforms into a vibrant hub of Bavarian pride. Beer tents overflow with cheer, music fills the air, and the streets smell of roasted chicken and fresh pretzels. Altogether, it’s an experience that captures the true heart of Bavaria.
Where and when is Oktoberfest held?
The festival takes place at Theresienwiese, a massive open area in central Munich, commonly called “Wiesn” by locals. Despite its name, “Oktoberfest”, the event actually begins in late September and runs until the first weekend of October.
The Beer: More Than Just a Drink Oktoberfest in Munich
At the heart of Oktoberfest are the legendary beer tents — 14 large and 20 smaller ones — each serving a special Oktoberfestbier brewed exclusively by Munich’s six traditional breweries.
These include Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, and Spaten. Each beer is rich, smooth, and crafted to capture the spirit of Munich’s celebration.
Every tent has its own personality, music, and crowd — from the traditional Schottenhamel to the vibrant Hofbräu-Festzelt, a favourite among international visitors. Moreover, the friendly atmosphere makes it easy to join in, sing along, and share a toast with new friends.
Beer is served in one-litre mugs, known as a “Maß” — so pace yourself and enjoy every sip responsibly!
Bavarian Food: What to Eat at Oktoberfest in Munich
The food at Oktoberfest is just as tempting as the beer itself. In fact, visitors come from around the world to enjoy the classic flavours of Bavaria. Here are a few favourites you shouldn’t miss:
🥨 Brezn (Pretzels): Oversized, golden, and perfectly salty — an ideal snack to enjoy with a cold beer.
🌭 Bratwurst: Juicy grilled sausages served in soft buns or with sauerkraut. They’re simple, hearty, and full of flavour.
🍗 Hendl: Roast chicken with crispy skin and tender meat. It’s one of Oktoberfest’s top crowd-pleasers.
🍖 Schweinshaxe: A juicy pork knuckle served with potato dumplings. The slow roasting gives it a rich, smoky taste.
🥧 Apfelstrudel: Warm apple pastry often topped with vanilla sauce or ice cream — a sweet finish to a perfect Bavarian feast.
Music, Parades & Carnival fun: Oktoberfest in Munich
Oktoberfest is much more than a beer bash — it’s a vibrant celebration of Bavarian culture. In fact, every part of the festival brings people together through music, tradition, and joy.
🎶 Traditional Music
Each tent features live oompah bands playing folk tunes, German drinking songs, and even international hits. Moreover, the atmosphere is electric as visitors raise their mugs and sing along to “Ein Prosit” every fifteen minutes.
🎉 Opening Parade
At the start of the festival, the Oktoberfest Costume and Riflemen’s Parade fills the streets with colour and excitement. Horse-drawn beer wagons, traditional costumes, dancers, and marching bands create a spectacle of sound and movement that sets the tone for the days ahead.
🎠 Family-Friendly Carnival
Meanwhile, outside the beer tents, the fairgrounds come alive with roller coasters, Ferris wheels, and carnival games. In addition, there are haunted houses and fun attractions for all ages — making Oktoberfest a family-friendly celebration that offers something for everyone.
What to Wear: Dirndl and Lederhosen: Oktoberfest in Munich
Traditional Bavarian attire is encouraged — and it adds even more joy to the festive atmosphere. In fact, dressing up is part of what makes Oktoberfest such a memorable experience.
For women, wearing a dirndl — a dress with a blouse and apron — is the classic choice. Interestingly, the knot position on the apron can even show relationship status!
For men, traditional lederhosen — leather shorts with suspenders — are the go-to outfit. Usually, they’re paired with a checkered shirt and wool socks for an authentic look.
Moreover, you can rent or buy these outfits at local shops in Munich. However, it’s smart to book early or order online in advance to make sure you get the right size and style.
Plan Ahead: Tips for First-Time Visitors:Oktoberfest in Munich
✅ Reserve Early
Accommodation in Munich fills up months before the festival, so it’s best to book your stay well in advance. In addition, check both hotels and Airbnb options, as prices can rise quickly closer to the event.
Beer Tent Reservations: Try to reserve tables early, especially for evenings and weekends. Some tents do allow walk-ins during the day, but expect long queues if you arrive late.
🚆 Transportation
Getting around Munich is simple and efficient. Use the U-Bahn or S-Bahn train systems to reach Theresienwiese, the main festival grounds. Moreover, avoid driving — parking is limited, and it’s best to enjoy the celebrations safely without a car.
💶 Budget Considerations
During Oktoberfest, prices for food and drinks are higher than usual. As a result, plan your budget ahead of time. A Maß of beer costs around €12–14 (as of 2024) and will likely be slightly higher in 2025. In addition, set aside funds for souvenirs, snacks, and local entertainment to make the most of your trip.
Why Oktoberfest is a Must-Visit Festival
Oktoberfest in Munich isn’t just about beer — it’s a vibrant celebration of German culture, music, and tradition. In fact, the festival welcomes everyone with open arms, from backpackers and locals to families and travellers from around the world.
Moreover, it’s a place where hospitality and happiness fill every tent. Whether you come for the colourful parades, the traditional music, or the famous beer halls, you’ll feel the spirit of togetherness everywhere. As a result, Oktoberfest becomes a memory you’ll cherish for life.