Planning a trip to Oktoberfest 2025 in Munich? You’re about to experience the world’s biggest folk festival, a vibrant celebration where Bavarian culture comes to life in a heady mix of brass bands, frothing steins of golden Märzen, thrilling fairground rides and centuries-old traditions.
Every year millions of visitors from across the globe make their way to Munich’s Theresienwiese to share in the city’s famous Gemütlichkeit – that uniquely Bavarian sense of warmth, cheer and togetherness. In 2025, the 190th edition of Oktoberfest runs from Saturday 20 September to Sunday 5 October, and entry to the festival grounds and the tents remains free.
If you’ve ever wondered why the mayor of Munich taps the first beer barrel with the cry “O’zapft is!” you’ll soon learn why this phrase is so iconic. Meaning “It is tapped,” those words mark the official opening of Oktoberfest each year and signal the start of more than two weeks of celebration. For locals and visitors alike, hearing them is a spine-tingling moment that connects today’s Wiesn with traditions dating back to 1810, when Munich first held a festival to celebrate a royal wedding.
In this in-depth guide we’ll explore everything you need to know to make the most of your Oktoberfest 2025 experience. From insider tips for securing a spot in the beer tents to family-friendly attractions, from navigating public transport to sampling the best Bavarian dishes, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re travelling solo, with family, or even fitting the Wiesn into a business trip, this article will help you plan every detail so you can focus on soaking up the atmosphere of the world’s greatest folk festival.
Quick facts for Oktoberfest 2025 in Munich
Before we get into the daily highlights, family activities and insider tips, here are the essentials every visitor should know. Think of this as your Wiesn snapshot, the need-to-know details that will make planning smoother and your experience more enjoyable.
Where:
Theresienwiese fairground, about 20 minutes’ walk from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof).
Dates:
Saturday 20 September to Sunday 5 October 2025, with the ceremonial keg tapping at 12:00 on opening day.
Opening hours (grounds & tents):
- Monday to Thursday (22, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30 September and 1 October) 10:00-23:30
- Friday (26 September and 3 October, which is a public holiday) and Thursday 2 October 10:00-00:00
- Saturday (20, 27 September and 4 October) 09:00-00:00
- Sunday (21, 28 September and 5 October) 09:00-23:30
Here are more specific times:
Tents (large and small):
- On weekdays (Monday-Friday), tents open at 10:00 and close at 23:30
- On Saturdays, Sundays and the public holiday (3 October), tents open at 09:00 and close at 23:30
- The first Saturday (opening day) follows that same schedule: open at 09:00, official keg “O’zapft is!” at 12:00, and close at 23:30
Beer serving hours within tents:
- Bars in tents serve until 22:30 on most days
- Exceptions are Käfer Wiesn‑Schänke and Kuffler’s Weinzelt, which serve until 00:30 and remain open until 1:00
Fairground stalls and rides:
- Generally open from 10:00 to 23:30 on weekdays
- Extended hours on Saturdays until midnight (24:00); on Sundays and the public holiday they usually close at 23:30
Admission:
Free entry to the festival grounds and beer tents. The nostalgic Oide Wiesn (continue reading for more about this historic attraction!) costs €4, but it is free after 21:00, and children under 14 always get in free.
With the basics now clear, let’s move on to what makes Oktoberfest truly unforgettable. From parades and concerts to family days and traditions you will only find in Munich, the programme for 2025 is packed with highlights you will not want to miss.
Oktoberfest 2025 in Munich: Highlights & daily fixtures
Oktoberfest is more than just beer and brass bands. Every day of the 16-day festival brings with it unique traditions, ceremonies, and moments that you will only experience here in Munich.
Planning ahead with the official programme means you can catch the events that matter most to you, whether it’s the colourful parades, family-friendly days, or the powerful closing salute.
Saturday 20 September
- 10:45 – Parade of Wiesn landlords and breweries makes its way to Theresienwiese with horse-drawn carts and marching bands.
- 12:00 – The Lord Mayor of Munich taps the first keg in the Schottenhamel tent, declaring “O’zapft is!” (“It’s tapped!”). This is followed by twelve ceremonial gunshots at the Bavaria statue, a towering bronze figure that watches over the festival grounds, signalling that beer can now be served in all tents.
Sunday 21 September
- 10:00 – The Traditional Costume and Riflemen’s Parade winds through the city, featuring thousands in Dirndls and Lederhosen, historic regiments, and folklore groups.
- 11:00 – A joint brass band concert brings together musicians from across the tents at the Bavaria statue.
Tuesday 23 September
- Family Day #1 – rides, attractions, and snack stalls across the fairground offer reduced prices until 19:00.
Thursday 25 September
- 09:30 – Oktoberfest church service is held in the Marstall Festzelt, one of the large festival tents, offering a moment of reflection among the celebrations.
Friday 26 September
- 09:30 – Commemoration ceremony for the victims of the 1980 Oktoberfest bombing.
Sunday 28 September
- 11:00 – Landlords’ Concert by all the Oktoberfest tent bands at the Bavaria statue – a rousing open-air performance that brings together hundreds of musicians. Free entry.
Tuesday 30 September
- Family Day #2 – another chance to enjoy discounts on rides and food until 19:00.
Sunday 5 October
- 12:00 – The finale of Oktoberfest 2025 is marked with a traditional gun salute by the Böllerschützen (marksmen) at the Bavaria statue, a powerful closing ceremony that echoes across the Theresienwiese.
LGBTQ+ at the Wiesn
The festival also has an inclusive side, with special community meet-ups such as “Gay Sunday” in the Bräurosl tent on the first Sunday of Oktoberfest, as well as further LGBTQ+ gatherings across the fortnight.
Family-friendly Oktoberfest 2025 in Munich
It’s a common misconception that Oktoberfest is all about beer tents. In truth, the Wiesn is just as much a giant funfair, full of rides, games, parades and family-friendly services that make it an enjoyable day out for all ages.
Parents bringing little ones will find that the organisers put a lot of thought into ensuring children feel welcome, safe and entertained. Here’s what you need to know if you’re planning to experience Oktoberfest 2025 in Munich as a family.
Family days
On Tuesday 23 September and Tuesday 30 September, many of the rides, attractions and snack stands offer reduced prices until 19:00. These days are ideal for families who want to enjoy the fairground atmosphere without stretching their budget.
Strollers and pushchairs
Prams and pushchairs are welcome on the grounds from Sunday to Friday until 18:00. For safety reasons, they are not permitted on Saturdays or on Friday 3 October, which is a public holiday and one of the busiest days of the festival. If you do bring one, you can park it securely for a small fee at official luggage storage stations around the site.
Children in tents
Oktoberfest is a family-friendly event, but there are strict rules for youngsters in the beer tents. Children under six years of age must leave the tents by 20:00, even if accompanied by parents. Anyone under 16 years may only stay on the grounds after 20:00 if they are with a parent or legal guardian.
Facilities for families
Several areas of the Wiesn are designed to make life easier for parents. Baby-changing rooms are available, including in the large Service Centre, and there are special children’s toilets at various points around the site. Families with younger children should look out for the Familienplatzl, a designated family area with gentler rides, kid-friendly attractions and plenty of space to take a break from the bustle of the main fairground.
Top Tips for families at Oktoberfest 2025 in Munich
- Arrive early: The fairground is much quieter in the mornings, especially on weekdays, making it easier for little ones to enjoy the rides without long waits.
- Plan around naps: If your children still nap, take advantage of quieter corners like the Familienplatzl or nearby green spaces such as Bavariapark just outside the grounds.
- Stick to the rules on pushchairs: Saturdays and the holiday (3 October) are incredibly crowded, so don’t risk bringing a stroller – use a baby carrier instead.
- Eat outside peak hours: Grab meals earlier in the day to avoid busy queues. Many tents also have outdoor beer gardens where families can sit in a more relaxed environment.
- Pick your rides carefully: Classic attractions like the Ferris wheel, carousels and fun houses are great for children, while high-speed thrill rides are best left for older teens.
- Use public transport: Parking around the Wiesn is limited and stressful with children. U-Bahn and S-Bahn stops nearby make arrival and departure much easier.
- Have a meeting point: If kids are old enough, agree on a visible landmark like the Bavaria statue in case anyone gets separated in the crowd.
Oktoberfest really can be a magical experience for families, offering a chance to combine Bavarian traditions with fairground fun and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. With the practical details taken care of, parents can relax and enjoy the day just as much as their children.
Next, let’s look at another side of the festival that often gets overlooked but adds a special touch of history and charm: the nostalgic Oide Wiesn.
The Oide Wiesn (Old Oktoberfest)
Amid the noise of rollercoasters and the buzz of the beer tents, there is a corner of the Theresienwiese where time seems to slow down. The Oide Wiesn, or “Old Oktoberfest,” is a nostalgic celebration of Bavarian heritage that brings the festival’s roots vividly to life. Introduced for the 200th anniversary of Oktoberfest in 2010, it proved so popular that it has since become a cherished fixture on the southern edge of the grounds. For many visitors, this is the most enchanting part of the Wiesn, offering an authentic step back in time.
What to expect
Inside the Oide Wiesn, you will find lovingly restored fairground rides, from ornate carousels and swing boats to early rollercoasters and funhouses. Most of the rides here operate at discounted prices compared with the main fairground, which makes it especially appealing for families. Beyond the rides, there are showpieces of traditional crafts and Bavarian culture, including old-style shooting galleries, folk dance performances, and exhibits that highlight the history of Oktoberfest itself.
Music and tents
The Oide Wiesn also has its own beer tents, smaller and more traditional than the giant halls in the main festival. These tents focus on Bavarian folk music, Schuhplattler dancing, and regional food specialities. You can expect a calmer, more intimate atmosphere here — think brass ensembles and polkas rather than pop hits — making it an ideal choice for those who want to enjoy Oktoberfest without the crowds. It is a favourite spot for locals who treasure its sense of authenticity.
Practical details
- Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 10:00-23:30; Friday and Saturday 10:00-00:00. Beer is served daily until 22:30.
- Admission: €4 per person. Admission is free after 21:00, and children under 14 enter free of charge at any time.
- Location: The Oide Wiesn is on the southern side of the Theresienwiese, clearly signposted from the main entrances.
Top tips for visiting the Oide Wiesn
- Go during the day: The atmosphere is calmer in the mornings and afternoons, perfect for families with younger children.
- Catch the music: The smaller tents host traditional Bavarian folk groups daily — check the official programme for times if you want to catch a Schuhplattler performance.
- Don’t miss the rides: The nostalgic carousels and swing boats are not just for children; adults love them too. And the reduced ticket prices are a welcome bonus.
- Taste the difference: The Oide Wiesn tents often feature regional Bavarian dishes you might not find in the larger beer halls, so it’s a great opportunity to sample something new.
- Plan your timing: Because the Oide Wiesn closes earlier than some main Oktoberfest tents, visit here first before moving on to the larger festival grounds in the evening.
For families, history lovers, and anyone keen to experience a quieter side of Oktoberfest, the Oide Wiesn is a must-see. It feels like a window into the past and offers a refreshing contrast to the high-energy spectacle of the main Wiesn. Next, let’s look at the practicalities of getting there and getting around – from navigating Munich’s public transport to choosing the best arrival points for the Theresienwiese.
Getting there (and getting around)
One of the best things about Oktoberfest is how easy it is to reach. Munich’s public transport system is famously efficient, and during the Wiesn it steps up even more, with extra trains running to keep the flow of millions of visitors smooth. Whether you are flying in, arriving by train, or staying in the city centre, here is how to get yourself comfortably to the Theresienwiese without the stress.
From Munich Airport (MUC)
Munich Airport is well connected to the city. The suburban railway (S-Bahn) lines S1 and S8 run every 10 minutes, taking around 35 to 40 minutes to reach the city centre stations such as Hauptbahnhof or Hackerbrücke. From there, it is a straightforward walk or quick U-Bahn hop to the festival grounds.
U-Bahn stations near Oktoberfest
The U-Bahn (underground metro) is the most popular way to get to Wiesn. The closest stations are:
- Theresienwiese (U4/U5): right at the heart of the festival, though it can get very crowded.
- Schwanthalerhöhe (U4/U5): a slightly quieter option, just one stop further west.
- Goetheplatz (U3/U6): a short walk from the southern entrance.
- Poccistraße (U3/U6): another nearby alternative, also leading directly into the site.
S-Bahn: Hackerbrücke
Every S-Bahn line (S1 through S8) stops at Hackerbrücke, which is only a 10 to 15 minute walk to Theresienwiese. During Oktoberfest, the city runs additional evening and late-night services, making it one of the most reliable ways to arrive. The walk from Hackerbrücke is easy to follow thanks to clear signs and the cheerful stream of festival-goers heading in the same direction.
Walking from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof)
If you are staying in central Munich, you may find it simplest to walk straight from the Hauptbahnhof. It only takes about 20 minutes on foot, and the route is safe, direct and always lively during the festival.
Of course, if you’re staying at one of the three KING’s Hotels Munich properties all located very close to the Hauptbahnhof, you can just step outside and head straight for Theresienwiese.
Smart tips for smooth travel
At peak times, stations like Theresienwiese are occasionally closed temporarily to manage the flow of passengers. Don’t worry if that happens! Just stay flexible and use Goetheplatz or Poccistraße instead, or walk in from Hackerbrücke. For live updates and the quickest route information, download and use the official MVG or MVV transport apps.
Munich’s excellent public transport system makes it easy to get to Oktoberfest without ever needing a car. In fact, driving is strongly discouraged because parking near the Wiesn is virtually impossible during the festival. Embracing public transport is part of the experience, and sharing the journey with other excited festival-goers is often where the fun begins.
Next, let’s turn from getting there to what you need to know once you are inside: the practicalities of bags, safety, smoking rules, payments, and even where to find free drinking water on the grounds.
Practicalities: security, bags, smoking, payments & more
The Wiesn may feel like one big carefree party, but behind the scenes it is an impressively well-organised event. With millions of visitors expected, the city of Munich takes safety and logistics seriously, and there are clear rules in place to keep everyone comfortable. Knowing these before you go will help you avoid surprises at the gates and make your time at Oktoberfest 2025 in Munich as easy as possible.
Bag policy
To enter the grounds, you must comply with strict bag rules. Bags and backpacks may be no larger than 3 litres and must not exceed 20 × 15 × 10 cm. Larger items are not permitted inside the festival area. If you do arrive with a larger bag, use one of the official luggage storage facilities at entrances P2, P5, P8 or P10. For safety reasons, glass bottles are prohibited anywhere on the grounds.
Strollers and pushchairs
Rules for pushchairs follow the same guidelines mentioned earlier: they are allowed on the grounds Sunday to Friday until 18:00. They are not allowed on Saturdays or on Friday 3 October, which is a public holiday and one of the busiest days of the Wiesn. You can park them securely for a small fee at designated luggage stations.
Smoking and cannabis
There is a strict no-smoking rule inside all beer tents, which also applies to e-cigarettes. Smoking areas are provided in the outdoor gardens of the tents. Cannabis is explicitly prohibited everywhere on the festival site.
Safety on site
The festival grounds are fenced and entry points are monitored, with security checks at each gate. Police and security officers patrol throughout the event, and CCTV cameras cover the main areas. A particularly valuable resource is the Safe Space (Sichere Wiesn) initiative, which provides support for girls and women who need help. You can ask any member of staff, police officer or head to the Service Centre to be guided there. It is near the Bavaria statue and behind the Schottenhamel tent by the “Erste Hilfe” (“first aid”) entrance.
Lost and found
If you misplace something, head to the central lost and found office in the Service Centre (basement level, Festleitung entrance). Items often take a few days to be handed in, so it is worth checking again later in your stay.
Cash, cards and ATMs
While Oktoberfest was once almost entirely cash-based, today most tents, rides and stalls accept contactless payments by card or smartphone. That said, it is still wise to carry some cash, as not every vendor is equipped for electronic payments. ATMs are available both at the main entrances and inside some of the tents.
Free drinking water
A welcome improvement in recent years is the installation of ten free drinking-water taps across the festival grounds, including at the Oide Wiesn and near major entrances. Bring an unbreakable refillable bottle (glass is not permitted) and take advantage of this to stay hydrated throughout the day.
By taking a few minutes to familiarise yourself with these practicalities, you can save yourself time and stress once you are at the festival. With the essentials sorted, you are ready to focus on the fun part: enjoying the food, drink and festive atmosphere that make the Wiesn so special.
Food & drink: what to try (and what it costs)
No Oktoberfest experience is complete without indulging in its legendary food and drink. The Wiesn is not just about beer, it is also a celebration of Bavarian cuisine, from hearty classics to sweet treats, with plenty of options for vegetarians, vegans and families. Knowing what to expect in terms of menus and prices will help you enjoy the flavours of Oktoberfest 2025 in Munich without surprises.
Beer prices in 2025
For 2025 the price for a one litre Maß is between €14.50 and €15.80 in the large tents. Kuffler’s Weinzelt serves wheat beer only and lists €17.80 per litre. For the exact price in your chosen tent, check the official Oktoberfest page.
Bavarian classics to try
Oktoberfest food is as iconic as its beer. Look out for:
- Hendl (roast chicken), the most popular dish across all tents.
- Schweinshaxe (crispy pork knuckle), rich and indulgent.
- Würstl (sausages) in every variation, from bratwurst to weisswurst.
- Obatzda, a creamy cheese spread served with giant pretzels.
- Steckerlfisch, fish grilled on a stick, especially popular in the Fischer Vroni tent.
- Sweet options such as Kaiserschmarrn (fluffy shredded pancake), Apfelstrudel (apple strudel), roasted almonds and gingerbread hearts.
Vegetarian and vegan options
While Oktoberfest was once very meat heavy, today almost every tent offers vegetarian and vegan meals. Expect hearty dumplings, soups, salads, vegetable roasts and plant based adaptations of Bavarian classics. Alcohol free beer and non alcoholic cocktails are also widely served, making it easy for non drinkers to join the fun.
What about costs beyond beer?
- Half a roast chicken (Hendl): typically €15 to €17.
- Pork knuckle with sides (Schweinshaxe): €20 to €25.
- Sausage dishes with sauerkraut or potato salad: €11 to €15.
- Giant pretzel (Brezn): €6 to €8.
- Desserts (e.g. Kaiserschmarrn, Apfelstrudel): €9 to €12.
Tents with a twist
Each Oktoberfest tent has its own personality, and that extends to the food. For example, the Fischer Vroni specialises in grilled fish, the Ochsenbraterei is famous for its ox dishes, and the Käfer Wiesn-Schänke offers gourmet options and late night dining until 01:00. Exploring different tents is part of the culinary adventure.
From a cold Maß of golden Märzen to a warm plate of dumplings and gravy, the food and drink at Oktoberfest are a true highlight of the festival.
Tents, seats & reservations
You don’t need a reservation to enter Oktoberfest or its tents, but on busy days tents may close due to overcrowding. Every large tent keeps a quota of unreserved seats, especially earlier in the day; evenings/weekends are toughest. If you do reserve, do so only via the official tent websites (beware of resellers/scams).
Accessibility
Oktoberfest makes a strong effort to be barrier-free: accessible toilets are marked on the official map; wheelchair spaces are available in many tents; assistance and step-free routes are indicated. Details are updated on the official Barrier-free Wiesn page.
Crowd strategy: when to go
Use the Oktoberfest Barometer to spot quieter times. In general, weekday mornings/afternoons are the calmest; Saturdays and the German Unity Day (Friday 3 October) are the busiest. The city’s barometer gives a day-by-day forecast for 2025 (e.g., mid-week shows “quiet” to “well attended”, while both Saturdays rank “very busy”).
Suggested days for every kind of traveller
For families (Tuesday Family Day): Arrive late morning; start with the Familienplatzl and gentler rides; book lunch in a quieter tent; enjoy discounted rides/snacks until 19:00. Depart before evening peak (and remember the 20:00 tent rule for under-6s).
For tradition lovers (Opening weekend): Catch the Landlords’ Parade and tapping on Saturday, then the Costume & Riflemen’s Parade and band concert on Sunday – prime photo moments with the Bavaria statue as your backdrop.
For the LGBTQ+ community: Gay Sunday at Bräurosl on the first Sunday is the headline meet-up, with further community events during the fortnight. Arrive early; the tent fills quickly.
For business travellers: Aim for Monday to Thursday daytime sessions for easier seating and conversation; use contactless where accepted, but keep some cash for tips and smaller vendors.
For solo travellers: Stick to big aisles and gardens, agree a meeting point with new friends, and know you can always seek assistance at the Safe Space or any police/first-aid point.
Getting your bearings on the grounds
Download the official Munich Oktoberfest 2025 map and site plan – it marks all tents, rides and services: ATMs (€), first aid, police, safe space, drinking-water taps, toilets (including accessible), luggage storage & stroller parking. It also shows the U-/S-Bahn stops and walking routes.
What to wear (and why it matters)
Trachten are welcome, not mandatory: Dirndl for women and Lederhosen for men are the classic picks. If you wear a dirndl, the apron bow placement carries a traditional meaning (left = single, right = taken, etc.). Whatever you choose, keep it respectful and comfortable for long days on your feet.
Where to stay: make Oktoberfest feel like home
For a stay with Bavarian charm and modern comfort, KING’s Hotels Munich offers boutique rooms and hotel-apartment options that work brilliantly for couples, families and business travellers alike – with thoughtful touches and warm, independent hospitality. If you’re planning a longer Wiesn trip (or mixing work and play), opt for an apartment-style setup so you can keep early starts easy and late finishes extra cosy.
Final Word: Oktoberfest 2025 in Munich
Oktoberfest is more than a festival, it’s a living tradition that brings Bavaria’s heart to life. From the Mayor’s cry of “O’zapft is!” to the last notes of brass bands at the Bavaria statue, every moment is steeped in history and joy.
In 2025 the Wiesn celebrates its 190th edition with everything that makes it unique – great beer, hearty food, lively music, thrilling rides and the unmistakable spirit of Gemütlichkeit. Whether it is your first time or your fiftieth, this is the year to be in Munich.
Raise a glass, plan your visit, and be part of the world’s most famous folk festival. Oktoberfest 2025 is waiting, and it promises memories you will never forget. Prost!
* Book a hotel in Munich city centre – click here!
