Oktoberfest is the world's largest Volksfest (beer festival and travelling funfair), held annually in Munich, Bavaria, Germany. It typically takes place from late September to the first weekend in October, spanning 16 to 18 days. The festival is famed for its lively atmosphere, traditional Bavarian music, hearty food, and, of course, a wide selection of German beers.
Oktoberfest is celebrated at Theresienwiese, a large open space in the Ludwigsvorstadt-Isarvorstadt district of Munich. It is located near the city center and is easily accessible by public transport.
Theresienwiese is a large public park in Munich that serves as the official ground for Oktoberfest. It is named after Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen, whom Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria married in 1810. The nuptial celebrations on this site marked the first-ever Oktoberfest.
Tourists can expect a vibrant festival with elaborately decorated beer tents from various Munich breweries, traditional Bavarian music, folk dances, parades, amusement rides, games, and a variety of traditional foods like pretzels, sausages, roast chicken, and pork knuckles.
Entrance to the Oktoberfest grounds and most beer tents is free. However, it's recommended to reserve a table in advance in the most popular tents, especially on weekends and evenings, as these can become very crowded. Some special events within Oktoberfest may require tickets.
Traditional Bavarian attire is commonly worn at Oktoberfest. For men, this is lederhosen (leather breeches) paired with a checkered shirt, woolen socks, and alpine hats. Women often wear dirndls, which are colorful dresses paired with a blouse, apron, and sometimes a petticoat.
Children are allowed at Oktoberfest and there are many family-friendly days and attractions, such as fairground rides and performances. However, due to the nature of the event, the evenings and especially weekends can get quite crowded and may not be suitable for younger children.
The best time to visit Oktoberfest for a more relaxed experience is during weekdays, specifically in the afternoon. Weekends and evenings tend to be the busiest times. Also, visiting during the first week may be preferrable, as it is typically less crowded than the second week.
Theresienwiese is accessible by public transportation. You can take the U-Bahn (U4 or U5) to Theresienwiese station, or the S-Bahn to Hackerbrücke station, which is a short walk away. Several tram and bus lines also stop nearby, making it convenient for tourists to reach the festival grounds.
When attending Oktoberfest, be aware of the alcohol consumption rules and drink responsibly. Keep an eye on your belongings, as large crowds can attract pickpockets. Be sure to follow any specific tent rules, respect local customs and traditions, and be prepared for various weather conditions as the event is held in late September and early October.
Beaches (1)
Historical Places (66)
Museums (36)
Zoos (4)
Mountains (1)
Island (4)
Gardens (6)
