Oktoberfest Munich 2025 | An Ultimate Travel Guide

Oktoberfest Munich is the world's largest and most celebrated beer festival, drawing over 6 million visitors annually to experience authentic Bavarian culture, tradition, and hospitality. Held at the historic Theresienwiese, this iconic event has been bringing people together since 1810.

Munich is one of the best places to visit in Germany, and the Oktoberfest 2025 here offers an unforgettable experience from September 20 to October 5, 2025. From the ceremonial beer tapping to traditional costume parades, every moment celebrates Bavaria's rich heritage.

Whether you're planning a family visit or seeking the vibrant weekend atmosphere, Oktoberfest Munich promises memories that last a lifetime. Explore our Events and Festival Tour Packages to make your Oktoberfest journey seamless and extraordinary.

Oktoberfest Munich 2025 - Tourist Info

• Oktoberfest 2025 Dates: 20 September to 5 October 2025
• Oktoberfest ("Oide Wiesn") Timings: 10:00 AM - 11:30 PM
• Beer Timings:
• Large tents: Served until 10:30 PM
• Small tents: Served until 11:00 PM
• All tents close: 11:30 PM
• Käfer Wies'n-Schänke and Kufflers Weinzelt: Served until 12:30 AM
• Rides & Stalls Timings:
• Opening Day: 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM (midnight)
• Monday-Thursday: 10:00 AM - 11:30 PM
• Friday & October 2: 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (midnight)
• Saturday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 AM (midnight)
• Sunday: 9:00 AM - 11:30 PM
• Tickets: Advance vouchers are required + ₹140 per person for wristbands
• Make Reservations at: Oktoberfest booking
• Location: Theresienwiese, Munich, Germany

Oktoberfest 2025 Munich Highlights

• Grand parade featuring landlords and breweries.
• Official beer tapping ceremony to kick off the festival.
• Traditional costume parade on the first Sunday.
• 17 large tents and 21 small tents, where people from around the world celebrate together.
• Each tent serves authentic Munich beer and traditional Bavarian dishes.

Why Is It Called Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest Germany has a story. What started as a simple horse race to celebrate a royal wedding in 1810 has grown into the world's most famous festival.

Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese probably never imagined their October 17th celebration would still be going strong over 200 years later, drawing crowds to the very meadow named after the bride, Theresienwiese.

The young Kingdom of Bavaria was searching for ways to bring people together and build national pride, and this festival became exactly that.

What makes Oktoberfest 2025 Germany remarkable isn't just its size. Though hosting over six million visitors annually is impressive, it's how it remains true to its roots while welcoming the world.

For 16 days each fall, Munich opens its heart to millions, and somehow, it still feels like that original wedding party from 1810.

Interesting Oktoberfest History

Explore how Oktoberfest started and still is an unmatchable fest:

How It All Began:

The Oktoberfest story started with a royal love story. On October 12, 1810, Crown Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese, and the entire city of Munich was invited to celebrate on the fields outside the city gates.

The highlight was thrilling horse races watched by the Royal Family, and the whole event became a grand festival for all of Bavaria. People enjoyed it so much that they decided to repeat the horse races the following year. And just like that, the Oktoberfest tradition was born.

Growing Into a Festival:

In 1818, the festival got its first rides. A carousel and two swings added extra fun beyond the food and drinks. By 1896, the small beer stands were replaced with the large beer tents and halls that became the heart of Oktoberfest. These spacious tents created the lively atmosphere that millions of visitors love today.

Modern Traditions:

In 1950, a new tradition began when Munich's mayor officially opened Oktoberfest by tapping the first barrel at the Schottenhamel tent.

Celebrating the Past:

In 2010, Oktoberfest history came full circle with the introduction of "Oide Wiesn" (Old Oktoberfest). This special area at the south end features historic rides, traditional tents, and vintage attractions that honor the festival's 200-year heritage.

What started as a one-day royal wedding celebration has grown into the world's largest festival, welcoming over 6 million guests annually.

Munich Oktoberfest Events 2025

The following are the Oktoberfest 2025 events that take place in Munich:

• Opening & Closing Ceremonies: The opening ceremony takes place in the Schottenhamel tent on the first day. Munich's Lord Mayor taps the first keg and declares, "O'Zapft Is!" (It's tapped!), officially starting the festival.

The closing ceremony happens in the Hacker-Pschorr tent on the final night, featuring group singing as thousands celebrate together.

1. Family Days: Two designated family days offer discounted prices on all rides and performances, making Oktoberfest accessible for families with children.
2. Traditional Parades: The opening day parade features horse-drawn beer carriages led by the Münchner Kindl. The traditional costume parade showcases over 10,000 participants in authentic Bavarian attire, celebrating regional culture and heritage.
3. Gay Sunday: The first Sunday of Oktoberfest is celebrated as Gay Sunday, with special festivities in the Pschorr-Bräurosl tent.
4. Traditional Mass: An annual religious mass is held at Oktoberfest, including opportunities for baptisms and first communions.
5. Music and Shooting Competition: An outdoor concert featuring brass bands and alphorns takes place at the Bavaria statue. The festival concludes with a ceremonial gun salute by winners of the traditional Oktoberfest crossbow shooting competition.

Best Time To Visit Oktoberfest Munich

Here is the best time to visit Oktoberfest based on different priorities:

For Smaller Crowds:

• Weekdays (Monday-Wednesday) offer a more relaxed atmosphere with fewer visitors. Lunchtime visits on weekdays provide the easiest access to tents and attractions, allowing more time to explore comfortably.

For Maximum Energy:

• The first few weekends bring the most vibrant and lively atmosphere. The final week, especially October 3rd (German Unity Day), is extremely busy as locals join the celebrations before closing day.

Weather Considerations:

• Autumn in Munich brings unpredictable conditions. Expect a mix of sunny days and occasional rain. Check forecasts and pack accordingly for the most comfortable experience.

Pro Tip: Choose weekdays for a calm visit with easy tent access, or weekends for the full high-energy Oktoberfest experience. Both offer authentic Bavarian celebration, just with different crowd levels.

How To Reach Oktoberfest Munich?

Below are the best ways to get to Oktoberfest Munich:

By Flight:

• Munich has two airports: Flughafen München and Allgäu-Airport.
• The main airport, Flughafen München, connects directly to the city center via S1 and S8 trains. It is a 45-minute journey from the airport with departures every 20 minutes.
• The alternative Memmingen Airport (Allgäu-Airport) is cheaper but farther away.
• From Allgäu airport, you need to take the shuttle buses to Munich train station, which takes 1 hour and 20 minutes.

By Train:

• Munich is well-connected to major European cities by train and bus.
• The nearest is Munich's Hauptbahnhof (main train station).
• It is just 3 km away from Theresienwiese, you can choose a taxi(Taxis and cycle rickshaws are readily available throughout the city) to reach the destination in 10 to 15 mins.

By Bus/ Taxi:

• The nearest bus station is the ZOB, Munich's central bus station.
• It is within 2 km of the festival grounds. Once at the station, you can use a taxi. Or,
• If staying near the festival grounds (Theresienwiese), walking is also a convenient option.

Other Public Transportation Around Munich:

Munich has an excellent public transportation system:

• U-Bahn (underground trains)
• S-Bahn (suburban trains)
• Trams (above-ground streetcars)
• City buses

All options are fast, punctual, affordable, and air-conditioned. Purchase single tickets, group passes, day passes, or multi-day passes depending on your needs.

Essential Tips For Visiting Oktoberfest Munich

Consider the following important tips for visiting Oktoberfest Munich:

1. Tent Capacity Closures: Tents may temporarily close when full, especially on weekends and October 3. Sunny weather helps as beer gardens provide extra space, but rain fills tents quickly. Tents reopen as people leave. Reservation holders always get in through the side entrances.
2. Protect Your Belongings: Always take valuables when leaving your seat. If the tent closes while outside, there's no re-entry, even if friends are waiting inside.
3. Reserve Tables Ahead: Reservation bracelets guarantee entry anytime, essential for busy weekends and evenings.
4. Try the Historic Oide Wiesn: Four traditional tents offer a nostalgic atmosphere. Open 10 AM - 11:30 PM daily, beer served until 10:30 PM.
5. No Smoking Inside: Smoking and e-cigarettes are banned in all tents. Step outside if needed, but check capacity before leaving.
6. Wear Traditional Bavarian Dress:

• Women: dirndl (white blouse, knee-length dress, apron, comfortable shoes).
• Men: lederhosen (button-up shirt, knee socks, sturdy shoes, optional Alpine hat). Adds to the authentic experience.

1. Prepare for Variable Weather: September weather varies. It can be sunny, chilly, or rainy. Check forecasts and bring layers or rain gear.
2. Arrive Early: Beat the crowds, especially on weekends and holidays when tents fill fastest.

Is Oktoberfest 2025 Munich Worthy?

Absolutely! Oktoberfest Munich offers an unparalleled cultural experience that goes beyond beer and food. From historic traditions dating back over 200 years to vibrant parades, authentic Bavarian atmosphere, and world-class hospitality, every moment is memorable.

The festival welcomes millions globally, creating connections and celebrations that transcend borders. Whether exploring Oide Wiesn or dancing in grand beer tents, the energy is infectious. Securing Oktoberfest Munich tickets in advance ensures you don't miss this once-in-a-lifetime celebration.