Get ready to raise your stein and join the world’s biggest Volksfest—Oktoberfest 2025. It is open to everyone—locals and visitors—to join in the vibrant fall festivities filled with the aroma of German cuisine and classical music. Millions of people flock to Munich yearly in their traditional men’s lederhosen and dirndl attire just to be part of non-stop festivities and taste the main highlight—overflowing beers. But keep in mind that the festival area and surroundings get overly crowded during the event days and require proper planning beforehand to have a peaceful time.
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What is Oktoberfest?
It is a 16-day beer festival held in Munich, Germany. Oktoberfest originated as the Royal Wedding of Prince Ludwig in 1810. The celebrations were such a success that locals demanded it become an annual event—and it did. Today, the festival stands as a proud symbol of German culture that draws 6 to 7 million enthusiastic visitors to embrace its rich historical significance and become part of beloved festivities.
When and Where Oktoberfest is Celebrated?
The event usually starts in mid-September and ends on the first Sunday of October. It spans over two weeks. If the Oktoberfest’s end date falls on the 1st and 2nd of the month, the celebration extends to include German Unity Day (October 3rd). It takes place at Theresienwiese in Munich—locally known as Wiesn. Many cities around the world also host their own Oktoberfest-style events, but nothing beats the original.
Oktoberfest 2025: Saturday, September 20 to Sunday, October 5.
What to Expect at Oktoberfest?
You will walk into a world of tradition, where everything—from mouthwatering dishes and massive Biergartens to fun games and activities—has a deep history and reflects the true essence of Bavarian culture.
Opening Ceremonies
The main highlights of Oktoberfest are parades and the ceremonial kick-start that you shouldn’t miss out on your visit.
- On the first morning, the beer tent landlords ride decorated horse-drawn drays representing Munich’s six major breweries and parade through a set route to the festival grounds.
- At noon, the Mayor of the city taps the first beer barrel in the Schottenhamel tent and shouts the traditional phrase “O’zapft is!” (“It’s tapped!”). It signals the start of beer pouring across all tents.
- On Sunday, the large costume parade takes center stage, in which people from all over Europe and Bavaria dressed in traditional attire walk to the Theresienwiese.
Bavarian Food
Start your Oktoberfest culinary journey with pretzels. They are giant, soft, salty bread twists that make a perfect beer combo. Try Bratwurst (grilled German sausages) or Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) to experience tender and juicy meat with seasoned Bavarian spices for lunch. There is much more!
- Hendl (roast chicken)
- Käsespätzle (cheesy egg noodle)
- Apfelstrudel (apple strudel)
- Kaiserschmarrn (a caramelized shredded pancake)
- Steckerlfisch (grilled fish)
- Sauerkraut and Red Cabbage
Large and Small Beer Tents
There are 17 large and 21 small tents with unique ambiance and seating for thousands at Oktoberfest. Some are lively and rowdy, others are quieter and family-friendly. Each tent serves specific beer brands from Munich’s six major breweries and culinary delights at intimate musical settings. Smaller tents are more peaceful and focused on less-alcoholic beverages.
Timings
- On working days: 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m., with last beer served half an hour before closing.
- On weekends or public holidays, the tents open at 9 a.m.
Family-Friendly Activities
Visiting with your kids? Tuesdays are designated specifically for families, and you get discounted food and rides, too. Oktoberfest host Familienplatzl–a dedicated area for stroller parking, children’s toilets, changing tables, and quiet rest zones. There are kid-friendly games and rides such as carousels, gentle boat rides, bumper cars, and small Ferris wheels.
Booths and Stalls
It’s not just fun; you can take memorial souvenirs back home. Several booths and stalls across the festival ground host attractive games or honor traditional roots. Take a photo in the Be Marilyn booth, buy Oktoberfest-themed trinkets, or taste pastries to complement the fest experience sold at stalls.
Oide Wiesn
This nostalgic corner of Oktoberfest celebrates Bavarian heritage with old-time rides, folk dancing, historical displays, and traditional brass bands. It is perfect for visitors looking for a more cultural and relaxed experience. Entrance costs about 4 euros, with free admission after 9 p.m.
What to Do at Oktoberfest?
There’s something for everyone beyond drinking beer. Oktoberfest offers a wide variety of activities. Visit in the starting days to not miss the parades and Wiesn landlords’ live concert. Tent hopping is also a popular way to experience different atmospheres.
Participating in Games and Contests
You’re at Oktoberfest—why not show off your arm strength in the stein-holding competition (Masskrugstemmen) or test your skills in the barrel-rolling race? Use your energy in pretzel tossing and join the fun in polka dance-offs. Take part in the costume contest and aim for the title of Miss or Mr. Oktoberfest. These lively activities offer non-stop entertainment and give you the chance to create beautiful memories.
Music and Dancing
Learn the lyrics to Oktoberfest’s favorite song, “Ein Prosit.” You’ll hear it every 15 minutes in every tent, with steins raised high and everyone joining in. Alongside this, many popular Munich bands fill the festive air with traditional melodies and lively polka tunes. Schuhplattler, a traditional Bavarian folk dance known for its rhythmic slapping and stomping, also brings an authentic cultural flair to the festivities.
If you get the chance, don’t hesitate to jump in with your partner—it’s all part of the fun!
Enjoy Carnival Rides
The event features nearly 80 carnival rides ranging from classic carousels and Ferris wheels to thrilling roller coasters and the unique Flip Fly boat swing attraction. They add a dose of crazy fun to your visit—and the best part is, people of all ages join in and enjoy the thrill.
The Best Time to Visit Oktoberfest
Sunday evenings and weekday mornings are best. Avoid peak weekend crowds unless you prefer a bustling, festive environment or table reservations in the beer tent. Arriving early, right when the festival opens at 9 or 10 a.m., also helps avoid standing in long queues and secure better seats.
- The first two weekends are ideal if you want to experience the full festive energy and social atmosphere. But they are the busiest and crowded so plan accordingly.
- The middle weekend is also lively, with many students and international visitors. It is named the Italian weekend and offers diverse cultural experiences, but it is undoubtedly fully packed.
- Additionally, pay attention to special event days like Family Days and the public holiday on October 3rd, which is known for higher attendance.
How to Reach the Fairgrounds?
It is recommended not to take a car as you will not find parking near the festival grounds. You should use Munich’s Public transportation.
- Take the U-Bahn lines U4 or U5 to Theresienwiese station. It drops you directly at the festival area, but can be very crowded.
- Line U3 or U6 to nearby stations like Goetheplatz or Poccistraße. From there, you can reach the Oktoberfest with a 10-minute walk.
- Use S-Bahn lines S1 to S8. All stops at Hackerbrücke are within walking distance of the Oktoberfest.
- Metro bus lines 53, 58/68, 62, and 134 can also take you to Theresienwiese.
You must take a map or plan a route before traveling if you are a first-time visitor. Once you reach the right station, follow the other dressed people to get to the festival.
What to Wear at Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest is all about cultural celebrations, and people embrace it fully with traditional garments. About 85% of the festival-goers dress in these attires, including all locals and tourists.
- Men wear lederhosen, which are officially declared Oktoberfest attire. They are knee-length leather pants with embroidered suspenders paired with crisp white cotton or a checkered button-down shirt.
- Women attend the festival in stunning dirndls—a corset-style bodice and flared skirt with a contrasting apron. They are styled with matching blouses and different accessories to add glamor to the look.
Opt for comfortable shoes that support both walking and dancing, as you’ll be on your feet all day for fun.
Entry Ticket & Reservations
Oktoberfest is a free event. You do not need to purchase an admission ticket to enter the festival or the tents. However, it would be difficult to find a seat during packed weekends. So, make Oktoberfest tent reservations in advance. You can book a full table with a capacity of 8-10 persons; individual seat reservations are not allowed. Buying meal vouchers can only cost you some money.
How to Plan Your Oktoberfest Trip
If you decide to visit Munich, book your accommodation at the nearest hotels to the Oktoberfest months before. Keep in mind that food and souvenirs tend to be the most expensive parts of the visit, so budget carefully. Bring plenty of cash with you, as some tents do not accept debit cards.
Visiting with a family requires everything to be planned, like table bookings, finding suitable and less crowded routes, and perfect timings for relaxed festivities. Don’t forget to buy traditional clothing from an authentic lederhosen store so you don’t look out of place and show respect for Bavarian culture..
Golden Tips for Surviving Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest can feel overwhelming for first-timers. It is important to understand the customs and pace yourself to enjoy and survive the experience fully.
- Pack light to comply with bag restrictions—up to 3 liters.
- Arrive early to find a spot in popular tents.
Tip the waitress to get served faster and better. - Stay hydrated—drink water between beers.
- Eat before and during drinking.
- Stick with your group or set meeting points.
Keep the Wiesn map with you to easily locate stalls. - Learn some greeting phrases to communicate with locals.
- Use public transport to stay safe and avoid traffic.
Wrapping Up!
Oktoberfest is back in 2025 with the same energy and vibrant spirit as ever. This annual folk festival in Munich brings various cultures together to taste the world’s most famous breweries in an intimate festive atmosphere while toasting with locals. You can snack on fresh and oversized pretzels, take in stunning city views from the top of the Ferris wheel, and admire (or wear!) the traditional lederhosen and dirndl outfits. By the time it’s over, you’ll walk away with unforgettable memories and a deeper love for Germany’s most iconic festival. Prost!
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