A Guide To Oktoberfest

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Everything you need to know

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Germany’s largest festival is about to return… Here’s everything you need to know about Oktoberfest.

What Is Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest is an annual folk festival and celebration of Bavarian culture, food and beer that takes over the German city of Munich every autumn. More than 6 million people flock to the city to celebrate, and it has become a huge part of Munich’s culture and economy since it began in 1810. Oktoberfest isn’t just celebrated in Germany, however: the raucous celebrations are so admired that cities across the globe host parties in tandem every year.

A Brief History

The first Oktoberfest was held on 12 October 1810, with the citizens of Munich invited to celebrate the wedding of King Ludwig I and Princess Therese on the fields in front of the city gates. The fields became known as Theresienwiese (‘Theresa’s Meadow’) in honour of the Princess – where the party is still hosted to this day – and horse races were also hosted on 18 October in honour of the newlyweds. Oktoberfest was ratified when the celebrations were repeated one year later, all because Munich’s residents had such a great time. Over time, the celebration has evolved into a blow-out festival, featuring carnival booths and games, travelling entertainment, swings, stalls and, of course, beer and wine drinking.

How Much Is A Table At Oktoberfest?

As Oktoberfest has grown throughout the years, so too have the prices. Today, you’re looking at paying an average of 350€ to book a table – but this is basically a voucher you will redeem on the day by drinking plenty of beer and tucking into local delicacies.

That all said, you don’t need a table reservation to enjoy Oktoberfest. In fact, a quarter of tables are set aside for walk-ins from Monday to Friday, with 50 percent set aside before 3pm at the weekend and 35 percent after that. Tables usually sit between eight and 10 people, and the idea is to be sociable, so expect to get chatting with some strangers.

What Do People Wear To Oktoberfest?

Dirndls for the women and lederhosen for the men: you’ll see more than 90 percent of attendees donning traditional Bavarian dress. However, if you’re not feeling brave enough, you’ll also see plenty of people donning jeans and a t shirt or another everyday outfit. Learn more about traditional garms at oktoberfest.de.

Do I Need A Ticket?

No, you do not need a ticket to visit Oktoberfest. Entry is free and anyone can enter – just be aware that there are sometimes queues at busy times and your bag may be checked by security upon entry (the festival organisers recommend you don’t bring large bags or backpacks at all).

However, it costs 4€ to enter Oide Wiesn (the traditional, south side of Oktoberfest). Pay on the door, under 14s go free, and entry is free for all after 9pm. This is where you will find the fairground rides, which cost 1€ per ride.

Best Time To Visit

Oktoberfest is at its busiest on its first and final days, and typically busier on Friday and Saturday evenings. To check before you visit, there is a handy Oktoberfest barometer.

When Does Oktoberfest Begin In Munich?

In Munich, Oktoberfest begins in mid-September every year, lasting 17 or 18 days. In 2024, it will begin on Saturday 21 September and end on Sunday 6 October.

Why Isn’t Oktoberfest In October?

Oktoberfest was originally held every October but, over time, the start date shifted to September to make the most of warmer and longer days.

Does Austria Celebrate Oktoberfest?

Yes, Oktoberfest is celebrated in Austria as well as Germany, with the biggest parties hosted in the capital, Vienna. The Wiener Prater on the Kaiserwiese is the city’s largest celebration, this year running from 26 September to 13 October. Visitors can enjoy free entry during the day, with access to three large festival tents, five alpine pastures, Austrian folk music, and beer and pretzels galore.