Oktoberfest is a vibrant Munich autumn festival that you should not miss at least once in your life. Spanning a lively 16-day period across more than 230 acres, the festival offers a plethora of activities suitable for all ages. Whether you’re a food and drink enthusiast, an adrenaline addict seeking thrilling rides, or someone who enjoys leisurely parades and concerts, Oktoberfest caters to everyone. Fashion aficionados will be captivated by the stunning local costumes that grace the festival grounds throughout the event.
Oktoberfest originated in October 1810, following the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria to Therese Charlotte Luise Friederike Amalie von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The celebration included royal horse races held in the meadows outside the city gates, inviting the people of Munich to join in the festivities. A year later, the townsfolk decided to make the celebration an annual event, leading to the inception of Oktoberfest, which has continued for over 200 years.
- Tips
Despite its name, Oktoberfest actually begins in September, typically starting on the last Saturday of the month and concluding on the first Sunday of October. - This year’s Oktoberfest will take place from Saturday, 21 September, to Sunday, 6 October, 2024.
- Hours: 10:00 – 24:00 (Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 – 24:00) at the large plaza next to the Theresienwiese subway station in Munich.
5 Things Not to Miss When Visiting Oktoberfest
1. The Horse-Drawn Carriage Parade
The grand opening of the event features a stunning parade of landlords and brewery owners, all dressed in traditional costumes, showcasing the unique features of their tents for the year. A traditional costume parade follows, with tens of thousands of performers.
2. Beer Tents
With over 30 beer tents, both large and small, visitors are invited to relax, dine, and enjoy beverages at their leisure. Highlights include the Augustiner Festhalle, known for its family-friendly vibe; the Paulaner Festzelt tent, famous for its giant beer mugs (where you may even spot Bayern München football players); and the Pschorr-Festzelt Bräurosl for lively music. If you want to immerse yourself in a Bavarian paradise, the popular Hacker-Festzelt tent features a sky-themed ceiling and can accommodate over 9,000 guests.
3. Outdoor Concerts
Enjoy performances by around 400 musicians and renowned artists from across the globe near the Bavarian statue, where thousands of balloons are released into the sky as the audience sings the Bayernhymne, the Bavarian anthem.
4. Amusement Park
Experience over 130 rides that rival those of a small amusement park. Choose from shooting ranges, ball-throwing games, carousels, Ferris wheels, and the exhilarating Olympia Looping, a 5-ring roller coaster inspired by the Olympic Rings from when Germany hosted the Olympics in Munich in 1972.
5. Shop for Souvenirs
Besides t-shirts, traditional Bavarian costumes, and collectible mugs, do not miss out on “Lebkuchenherzen,” or heart-shaped gingerbread, which makes for a popular souvenir.
5 Things to See in Munich
1. Neuschwanstein Castle
The inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty fairytale castle, this iconic structure is nestled in the Alps near Füssen, just a short distance from Munich.
2. Garmisch-Partenkirchen
A charming old town located on the slopes of Wetterstein Mountain, known for its colorful buildings.
3. Marienplatz Square
A central landmark for Munich residents, home to the Gothic-style New Town Hall.
4. Englischer Garten
An expansive English garden in the heart of Munich, featuring the Eisbach River that runs through the park for 15 kilometers and boasts over 100 bridges.
5. Nymphenburg Palace
The former summer residence of the Bavarian royal family, this palace is renowned for its exquisite blend of French and English architectural styles.
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