photo of crowds enjoying Oktoberfest in Munich

Exploring Munich’s vibrant event scene is akin to opening a treasure chest of cultural riches. The bustling Bavarian capital is a hub of activity, offering a diverse array of events that capture the city’s spirit and zest for life. From time-honoured festivals and lively fairs to premier sports gatherings and cultural celebrations, Munich extends an open invitation to experience its many facets.

The city’s 2025 calendar brims with events that cater to a wide spectrum of interests, promising something for everyone. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of a football match, the sensory delight of a food festival, or the intellectual stimulation of a film screening, Munich’s lineup will not disappoint. Our curated list of 2025 leisure events in Munich offers a glimpse into just a few of the many events that await you here, each an opportunity to engage with the city’s rich tapestry of experiences.

Sports Events in Munich 2025

There’s nothing quite like the exhilaration of watching a game or taking part in a sporting activity like a marathon. Among the many 2025 events in Munich are a variety of sporting events you can attend to get your adrenaline fix, such as…

World Class Football at the FC Bayern Munich Allianz Arena

The Allianz Arena in the heart of Munich (pictured below) is a beacon for football fans from across the globe. With its innovative design and colour-changing facade, it’s not just a stadium but a symbol of the city’s love for the beautiful game.

As the proud home of FC Bayern Munich, the arena has borne witness to countless thrilling moments of sporting history. For international matches, the Allianz Arena opens its gates to 70,000 spectators, making it Germany’s second-largest football stadium.

Looking ahead to 2025, the Allianz Arena promises a roster of home games that are sure to captivate football enthusiasts. Whether you’re a lifelong supporter or a visitor looking to soak in the passion of a live match, the upcoming fixtures for Bayern Munich with Bundesliga matches, the 2025 UEFA Champions League final and many more are not to be missed.

In addition, FC Bayern Basketball is another successful department of the club. In the newly built SAP Garden – a multi-use sports event arena – you could either go support FC Bayern Basketball or Munich’s ice hockey club, EHC Red Bull Munich.

photo of the FC Bayern Munich Allianz Arena in Munich

Spartan Race Munich (April 11 - 12, 2025)

The Spartan Race is an exhilarating event that challenges participants mentally and physically. Along the course, participants will face mud, sand, fire, the Olympic lake, and the Olympic mountain — among other exciting challenges. Ticket prices vary according to the event you want to participate in and you can get these on the official website in advance.

The event caters to various experience levels, from beginners to seasoned experts. Even kids can join in on the fun. The race promotes a spirit of support and motivation among participants as they face many different obstacles. As part of the race weekend, there’ll also be festivities, food vendors, and an expo of exciting outdoor and fitness gear.

E-Bike Days (April 25 - 27, 2025)

On E-Bike Days, the Munich Olympic Park becomes a meeting place for e-bike lovers. This exciting event celebrates the growing popularity of electric bicycles and promotes sustainable transport solutions.

Throughout the event, there’ll be more than 100 exhibitors showing the latest designs and brands that you can test around the Olympic hill. While entrance to the event is free of charge, you’ll need to register for test rides on the official website. In addition to riding, you can get more information about the e-bikes from the manufacturers present and be privy to expert talks about the features and benefits of the bikes.

MASH (June 27 - 29, 2025)

MASH (Munich. Action. Sports. Heroes), held in the Olympic Park, is a fun festival that celebrates the world of action sports. The event was launched in 2014 to showcase the adrenaline-filled culture of extreme sports and has only grown bigger since.

It brings together athletes and fans for a weekend of thrilling skateboard, wakeboard, BMX, and street dance contests. Participants get to feed their adrenaline rush while spectators witness jaw-dropping stunts and skilled performances. It’s a great place to learn from pros and gain hands-on experience in different sports. According to the official website, all contests and side events are free of charge.

Cultural Events in Munich 2025

photo of traditional Bavarian dancing group at the Oktoberfest in Munich

Experiencing Munich’s vibrant culture is a unique journey through its rich traditions. The city’s diverse events are a canvas of culinary delights, lively music, and spirited dance – each offering a window into the heart of Munich’s heritage. Engaging with these celebrations is not just entertaining; it’s an immersive educational adventure into the soul of the city.

Oktoberfest (September 20 - October 5, 2025)

Oktoberfest is one of the most famous events and a highlight of the city’s social calendar among the list of 2025 leisure events in Munich. Hosting millions of visitors from around the world, this 16-day folk festival celebrates Bavarian traditions through music, dance, and of course lots of beer.

The Oktoberfest celebrations will include parades, traditional concerts, family days, and lots of fun. Entrance to the festival grounds in Theresienwiese and beer tents is totally free, but you’ll need to budget for beer, food, and entertainment like carnival rides. Typically, a litre of beer at Oktoberfest costs approximately €14 excluding the tip, so you’ll need to carry enough cash to really enjoy the drinks and food on offer!

Starkbierfest (2025 dates to be advised)

The festivals of strong beer are fun and hearty celebrations of the Bavarian beer culture. Lots of delicious strong beer is consumed while people enjoy music, exchange stories, and share a laugh.

The celebration of hearty brews and camaraderie is the perfect place to meet new friends and catch up with old ones. Held at the historic Paulaner Bräuhaus at the Nockherberg (a small terrace on the slope of the eastern bank of the Isar), the festival features a variety of strong beers, traditional Bavarian food, and live music.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade (March 15-16, 2025)

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a fairly new tradition in Munich. In fact, it only started in 1996 when some Irish people organised an event for only 200 attendees. 3,000 eventually ended up showing up and the rest, as they say, is history.

Today, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade has become one of the biggest multicultural celebrations in Munich. Volunteer organisations and sponsors continue to organise the parade and festivities each year to honour Ireland’s national saint. Kilians Irish Pub, Irish Pub Dubliner, Lokal Kennedys Bar and Restaurant, and other Irish pubs in Munich also host parties.

Happening on March 16th, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade is easily among the most highly anticipated 2025 Munich events, kicking off with a pre-parade party on March 15th. If you love Irish food, drinks and music, you should definitely check out these events!

Munich City’s 867th Birthday (June 14 - 15, 2025)

In 2025, Munich is celebrating its 867th birthday as a city. According to history, the first official mention of the city’s name comes from the Emperor’s ruling, a document that dates back to June 1158. That’s the year the city of Munich was formally founded by the Duke of Saxony and Bavaria, Henry the Lion (aka Heinrich der Löwe).

There aren’t a lot of details yet about the 2025 celebration. However, if previous birthdays are any indication, there’ll be plenty of food, beer, dancing, and good cheer all around.

Long Night of Munich Museums (October 18, 2025)

The Long Night of Munich Museums is a cherished annual tradition, inviting locals and visitors alike to discover the city’s rich cultural landscape. Held in the second half of October since 2006, the event showcases the motto “museum for everybody,” as over 100 museums, galleries, and cultural institutions open their doors for a single symbolic entrance fee.

From 19:00 to 02:00, guests can wander through exhibitions, explore unique art collections, and participate in special events across Munich, making this night a celebration of art, history, and creativity that unites the community in cultural appreciation.

Festivals & Fairs in Munich 2025

aerial photo of the Tollwood Festival

Nothing says celebration like a festival or a fair in Munich. These events are always filled with laughter and cheer, offering a great place to go when you need a pick-me-up.

Tollwood Summer Festival (June 19 - July 20, 2025)

At the Tollwood Summer Festival (pictured above), you get to welcome summer through a thrilling blend of music, theatre, art, and culinary delights — all in one place. The theatrical performances and live music concerts making up this festival all take place at the Olympic Park, featuring popular national and international artists.

A semi-annual event, the Tollwood Festival is a big occasion for fans of art, music, culture, and culinary arts. At Tollwood, you’re guaranteed unforgettable theatre productions, breathtaking performances, and all kinds of music, from jazz to rock and pop to world music. On top of that, the festival will also have the crowd-favourite ‘Market of Ideas’ highlighting handicrafts and organic food from all over the world.

Among the artists performing at this year’s Tollwood are top acts Samu Haber, Grossstadtgefluster, Edmund, Suzi Quatro, Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, Maggie Reilly, Roxette, and Paula Hartmann.

The good news? Well, over 80% of all Tollwood events are free because the organisation believes in making culture accessible for everyone.

Filmfest München (June 27 - July 6, 2025)

For those passionate about the silver screen, Filmfest München is a film-lover’s paradise. This event showcases an extensive selection of national and international movies, including premieres and retrospectives. Cinemas throughout the city host screenings, drawing in both established filmmakers and emerging talent.

Ticket prices will vary depending on the venue and film, but whatever the price, you’ll get to experience a truly captivating cinematic journey.

Frühlingsfest (April 25 - May 11, 2025)

Spring in Munich blooms with the Frühlingsfest, also known as Springfest, a festive event reminiscent of the famous Oktoberfest but on a smaller scale. Held at Theresienwiese, it features thrilling rides, traditional Bavarian food, and live music, encapsulating the essence of spring.

After two years of pandemic-related cancellations, the festival is finally making a comeback in 2025. While it promotes German beer and features lively tents, the Frühlingsfest’s smaller crowd ensures a more relaxed and enjoyable experience. The young and young-at-heart can also enjoy carnival rides and fireworks during the festival.

The festival is free to enter, making it easy to join in the celebration of the season. While most attractions are accessible without charge, some rides and special events within the festival may require a fee.

Music Events in Munich 2025

photo of people enjoying a concert to illustrate 2025 leisure events in Munich

Munich’s 2025 music events offer a diverse lineup, ensuring everyone finds a rhythm that resonates with them. Here are just a couple of examples of unmissable upcoming shows:

Star-Studded Concerts

Munich’s 2025 concert lineup is a music aficionado’s dream, with over 800 shows slated to echo through the city. From pop icons like Dua Lipa and Robbie Williams to the classical strings of André Rieu, the variety is boundless. Rock legends like the Rolling Stones, Wishbone Ash and Talco will share the stage with the timeless melodies of Ray Dalton and Joseph Bastian, ensuring every musical craving is satisfied. One open air gig will make the hearts of the fans beat faster: Guns ‘n Roses will perform in Allianz Arena on June 20!

Long Night of Music (May 10, 2025)

The Long Night of Music transforms the city into one big stage filled with musical wonder. The event occurs across hundreds of venues throughout the city, offering a diverse musical program to suit all tastes.

From classical music to jazz and modern tunes, you’ll be able to experience music at its best in concert halls, clubs, open-air locations, and even churches. You can hop from one venue to the other using the shuttle bus that connects the different venues and go on an unforgettable music journey.

Munich Opera Festival (June 27 - July 31, 2025)

The Munich Opera Festival is well-known and loved for its excellent productions and is one of the oldest festivals in the Bavarian capital, dating back to 1875. The event attracts audiences from around the globe with world-class opera performances.

The key focus of the festival will be on myths and their evolution over the years. In addition to various chamber concerts, baroque concerts, and lieder recitals, the programme will also include the following:

  • Die Liebe der Danae by Richard Strauss
  • Rusalka by Antonín Dvořák
  • Lohengrin and Das Rheingold by Richard Wagner
 
Ticket prices to these performances vary, ranging from affordable options to premium seats that cost somewhat more for an elevated auditory experience.
 

Seasonal & Holiday Events in Munich 2025

Munich is a wonderful destination when it comes to seasonal celebrations and events. Bavarians don’t do things by half measures!

Munich Carnival (February 27 - March 4, 2025)

Munich Carnival 2025 promises a week of vibrant festivities filled with costumes, music, and community spirit. Running from February 27 to March 4, the celebration kicks off on “Nonsensical Thursday” with the motto “Carnival has a heart.” The official opening at Marienplatz will feature the Carnival regiment and the “Carnival Prince,” followed by lively parades and parties throughout the city centre.

Before the carnival reaches its climax, there are countless balls from the end of January until March 4. The best known are the balls at the Deutsches Theater, Bayerischer Hof and Künsterlhaus, while many also take place in other locations.

The excitement continues on Fasching Friday with a grand masked costume ball at the Löwenbräukeller and outdoor music performances across Munich. Carnival Saturday is perfect for families, offering children’s costume parades, family-friendly events, and a spectacular fireworks display over the Isar River in the evening.

Carnival Sunday brings the highlight of the week—a grand parade through Munich’s streets with decorated floats, music bands, and costumed participants, complemented by a festival-like atmosphere and street food vendors.

Shrove Monday offers a more relaxed vibe with smaller neighbourhood gatherings, while Shrove Tuesday concludes the festivities with the iconic “Tanz der Marktweiber” (Market Women’s Dance) at Marienplatz and the ceremonial “Burial of the Carnival Prince.”

Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy costume contests, dance parties, cabaret shows, and activities for all ages, celebrating the joy and camaraderie of Carnival.

Easter Festival (April 20, 2025)

The Easter Festival at the Olympic Park is a beloved spring tradition in Munich, returning on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025. Perfect for families, this vibrant event offers a packed programme of fun and entertainment from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Children can enjoy Magic Clown Manu’s captivating shows of tricks and illusions, immerse themselves in imaginative stories at the fairytale tent, or get creative at the craft station. For a touch of magic, kids can transform into enchanted fairies or fearless pirates at the glittering make-up station.

Two friendly Easter bunnies will be on hand to delight visitors with sweet treats, while the showmen and vendors bring the festive energy with rides and stalls. Radio Arabella, led by presenter Simon Jägersberger, will host a dynamic stage programme and oversee the Olympiapark wheel of fortune, where visitors can win exciting prizes.

Halloween (October 31, 2025)

Halloween is celebrated on October 31 in Munich, as it is in many parts of the world. In 2025, you can expect various events such as costume parties, themed bars, and Halloween markets, although specific events for that year have not yet been detailed. It’s advisable to check closer to the date for updated event listings as Halloween approaches – watch this space!

Christkindlmarkt (November 24 - December 24, 2025)

Munich’s cherished Christkindlmarkt (pictured below), held in the storied Marienplatz, invites visitors to a festive wonderland where tradition meets holiday cheer. Dating back to the 14th century, this historic market has evolved over centuries, finally establishing its permanent residence in the city’s heart in 1972.

Amidst the glow of a grand Christmas tree and the aroma of spiced glühwein, the Munich Christmas Market comes alive. Offering over 130 stalls with handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and a lineup of joyful events like the Krampus run, it’s a place where holiday spirits soar, capturing the enchanting essence of the season.

photo of the Christkindlmarkt in front of the New Town Hall in Munich

Final Word: 2025 Leisure Events in Munich

There’s so much to look forward to with an amazing line-up of 2025 leisure events in Munich! Whether you want to delve into the arts, enjoy world-class music, cheer on your favourite athletes, or indulge in Bavarian traditions, Munich’s big events are the place to be. 

KING’s Hotels in central Munich is the perfect launchpad for your exploration of the beautiful Bavarian capital and the diverse leisure opportunities that it offers. 

From premier rooms offering the utmost comfort to elegant hotel apartments, KING’s Hotels Munich is the perfect place to call home between event-hopping and sightseeing. And if you’re working while you’re on the move, KING’s Café Munich at KING’s Hotel First is where you can get your work done between excursions!

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