Giant beer tents, oompah bands, roast chicken, pretzels the size of your head, and millions of people in dirndls and lederhosen: Oktoberfest in Munich is the world's most famous beer festival. Here's your complete guide to Oktoberfest, covering its history, dates, what happens, food and beer, tickets and reservations, what to wear, and how to get there.
What Is Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest, or Wiesn as locals call it, is a folk festival held every year in Munich, the capital of Bavaria in southern Germany. It combines huge beer tents run by Munich's breweries, traditional Bavarian food and music, fairground rides, and parades. Around six million visitors attend each year, making it one of the largest festivals in the world.
The History of Oktoberfest
The first Oktoberfest took place in October 1810 to celebrate the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. Munich's citizens were invited to the festivities on a meadow outside the city gates, which was named Theresienwiese in the princess's honor. The celebrations, which ended with a horse race, were repeated the following year and became a tradition. Today, the festival is still held on the Theresienwiese.
When Is Oktoberfest?
Despite its name, Oktoberfest mostly takes place in September. It usually starts on a Saturday in mid to late September and runs for 16 to 18 days, ending on the first Sunday in October, or on October 3, German Unity Day, if that falls later. The festival was moved forward to September to take advantage of warmer weather and longer evenings. Check the official Oktoberfest website for this year's dates.
What Happens at Oktoberfest?
- Opening ceremony: At noon on the first Saturday, the mayor of Munich taps the first keg in the Schottenhamel tent and shouts "O'zapft is!" ("It's tapped!"). Only then can beer be served.
- Parades: The opening day features the parade of the brewers and tent hosts, and on the first Sunday, a huge costume and riflemen's parade winds through the city.
- Beer tents: Around 17 large tents and many smaller ones serve beer, food, and live music, from Bavarian brass bands to party anthems.
- Fairground rides: Roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and traditional rides and games.
- Family days: Tuesdays usually offer reduced prices on rides and attractions for families.
Oktoberfest Beer and Food
Only beer from Munich's six traditional breweries can be served: Augustiner, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, and Spaten. It's brewed specially for the festival, comes in a one-liter glass mug called a Mass, and is stronger than most everyday beers. Prices rise every year, so expect to pay well above what you'd pay in a Munich beer garden.
Line your stomach with Bavarian classics:
- Hendl: Half a roast chicken, the festival's signature dish.
- Brezn: Giant soft pretzels.
- Schweinshaxe: Crispy roast pork knuckle.
- Weisswurst: White veal sausages, traditionally eaten before noon.
- Obatzda: A tangy cheese spread served with bread or pretzels.
- Steckerlfisch: Fish grilled on a stick.
Do You Need Tickets for Oktoberfest?
Entry to Oktoberfest and the beer tents is free. However, tents fill up quickly, especially on evenings and weekends. Table reservations must be made directly with each tent, often months in advance, and usually require ordering a minimum amount of food and drink. Without a reservation, arrive early, ideally on a weekday morning, as some areas of each tent are kept free for walk-in guests. When a tent is full, security closes the doors.
What to Wear to Oktoberfest
You don't have to wear traditional dress, but many visitors do.
- Dirndl: A dress with a fitted bodice, blouse, and apron. Tradition says that tying the apron bow on the left means you're single, on the right means you're taken.
- Lederhosen: Leather shorts or breeches, usually worn with a checked shirt, suspenders, and knee socks.
You can buy or rent outfits in Munich. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be on your feet for hours.
When Is the Best Time to Go to Oktoberfest?
Weekday mornings and early afternoons are the quietest times to get a seat in a tent. The opening weekend and the middle weekend, often called "Italian weekend," are the busiest. For the best atmosphere with fewer crowds, visit midweek during the first or last week.
Oktoberfest Tips for Travelers
- Book accommodation early: Munich hotels fill up and prices soar during Oktoberfest.
- Getting there from the city center: The Theresienwiese is a short walk from Munich's main station, or take the U4 or U5 subway to Theresienwiese or Schwanthalerhöhe.
- From Munich Airport: Take the S1 or S8 S-Bahn to the main station (about 40 minutes), then walk or take the subway, or use the airport express bus.
- Bring cash: Many stalls and tents prefer cash, and you'll want small change for tips.
- Leave big bags at home: Large bags and backpacks aren't allowed on the grounds.
- Pace yourself: Oktoberfest beer is strong, and you'll be served a full liter at a time. Drink water and eat well.
Looking for more autumn events? Read our guide to the best fall festivals around the world.
Stay Connected at Oktoberfest
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FAQs: Oktoberfest Guide
When is Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest usually starts on a Saturday in mid to late September and ends on the first Sunday in October, or on October 3 if that falls later.
Is Oktoberfest free?
Yes. Entry to the grounds and the beer tents is free, but you pay for food, drinks, and rides. Table reservations require a minimum spend.
Why is Oktoberfest in September?
The festival was moved forward into September to enjoy warmer weather and longer days, while still ending in October.
Do you have to wear lederhosen or a dirndl?
No, but many visitors enjoy wearing traditional Bavarian clothing, which you can buy or rent in Munich.