Oktoberfest has created a buzz already, drawing global attention to the heart of Germany. Held in Munich every year, it is the world's largest beer festival and this year, it’s going to be bigger than ever. Taking place from 20 September to 5 October, Oktoberfest 2025 invites visitors to enjoy a mix of Bavarian culture, cuisine and unparalleled fun. From huge beer tents and tasty German food to live music, colorful parades, and exciting carnival rides, there’s always something new to see, eat, and experience. Dressed in lederhosen and dirndls, visitors can enjoy raising their glasses, dancing on benches and so much more. Ready to enjoy the biggest beer party in the world?
What is Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest is a celebration of Bavarian traditions and offers a fun experience for all ages. It usually begins in mid-September and ends on the first Sunday in October. The festival started in 1810 as a royal wedding gala and has grown into a major cultural event that draws visitors from across the globe. This year, it is the 190th edition of Oktoberfest. The entire festival is held on the massive open grounds of Theresienwiese, also known as Wiesn. It spans over an area of 420,000 square meters and is filled with beer tents, exciting roller coasters, classic carnival rides, game stalls, and food vendors. Oktoberfest is a family-friendly event during the day, with lively parties in the evening.
Given below are the key details of Oktoberfest 2025:
Dates: 20 September 2025 to 5 October 2025
Venue: Theresienwiese, Munich
Top Places to Visit for Oktoberfest
Given below are some of the best places to visit for an immersive and fun experience of Oktoberfest celebrations:
Festhalle Schottenhamel
Schottenhamel is arguably the most important tent at Oktoberfest as it is where the festival officially begins. Founded in 1867, it is also the oldest beer tent of the festival with a seating capacity for around 10,000 guests. On the opening day, the Mayor of Munich taps the first beer keg here, exclaiming ‘O'zapft is!’ (It's tapped!), signaling the start of the celebrations for everyone. There’s music, traditional Bavarian cuisine and a lively atmosphere, which makes it popular among younger crowds. It represents the pure, unadulterated tradition of Oktoberfest, making it an essential stop for visitors looking to witness the official kickoff, especially the first timers!
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 11:30 PM (9 AM to 11:30 PM on weekends)
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Hofbräu-Festzelt
Hofbräu-Festzelt majorly draws international visitors, especially from Australia and the USA. Stretching over 5,210 square meters, it is the second largest tent at Oktoberfest and can accommodate as many as 10,000 visitors. What makes Hofbräu-Festzelt more popular is that it is the only tent with a standing area directly in front of the music podium featuring a space for almost 1000 guests. If you are looking to meet people from all over the world and enjoy a rowdy, classic party vibe, Hofbräu-Festzelt is your ultimate destination. The ceiling of the hall is beautifully decorated with hops. You will experience the infectious energy right from the moment you step inside.
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 11:30 PM
Bavaria Statue
Located at the edge of Theresienwiese, Bavaria Statue is an 18-meter-tall bronze figure standing in front of the Hall of Fame (Ruhmeshalle). During Oktoberfest, visitors can climb the 130-step staircases inside the statue to reach the viewing platform at the top of the head. From there, you get a great view of festival grounds dotted with tents, carnival rides and the lively crowd as well as the city beyond. However, you need to pay a small fee for the experience. It is a popular photo spot and a peaceful place to look over the busy Oktoberfest crowds.
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Major Attractions at Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest Parade
Oktoberfest kicks off with a parade of decorated floats, marching bands, and horse-drawn brewery wagons. Local breweries, cultural groups, and folk dancers join the procession, creating a lively and festive atmosphere that showcases Bavarian history and pride.
Carnival Rides
Oktoberfest features a huge fairground with classic and modern rides for all ages. From giant Ferris wheels and roller coasters to haunted houses and bumper cars, there is so much to enjoy. Olympia Looping, the largest portable roller coaster in the world, is a major attraction at Oktoberfest. The bright lights and exciting rides make it a great break from the beer tents.
Traditional Music and Dance
Live brass bands and folk musicians fill the tents at Oktoberfest with traditional Bavarian tunes. Visitors dance to polkas, waltzes, and party songs on benches. Locals in lederhosen and dirndls lead the way, creating an energetic and joyful celebration of Bavarian culture.
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Theatre and Comedic Shows
One of the unmissable experiences at Oktoberfest is watching quirky, old-school performances at Schichtl Vaudeville Theatre. This historic vaudeville tent hosts magic acts and comedic sketches. The highlight is the ‘Beheading’ illusion show, a fun and theatrical tradition that has been entertaining the crowds for over 150 years.
Bavarian Culinary Delights
Oktoberfest is a feast of hearty Bavarian food. Try roast chicken, giant pretzels, sausages, pork knuckle, and sweet treats like apple strudel. Many dishes pair perfectly with the festival beers, giving you a real taste of Bavarian hospitality and flavor.
Crossbow Shooting
Test your aim in the crossbow shooting, which is a unique tradition of the festival. Visitors can try target shooting with real crossbows under safe supervision, which both a fun challenge and a nod to Bavarian hunting and folk customs. Armbrustschützenzelt is the most famous tent at Oktoberfest for crossbow shooting.
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Top Hotels to Stay in Munich During Oktoberfest
The Charles Hotel, a Rocco Forte hotel
The Charles Hotel in Munich is perfect for travelers seeking five-star comfort and service. Opened in 2007, the hotel has 160 rooms, including 24 suites with modern amenities and stunning city views. It features a top-tier spa with a pool, a sophisticated Italian restaurant, and a stylish bar. The hotel is located near the Old Botanical Garden and the central train station, making it easily accessible.
Motel One München-Westend
For travelers who want style and convenience without the luxury price tag, Motel One München-Westend is an excellent choice. This modern, three‑star hotel has 121 rooms across six floors designed with a chic aesthetic. It provides amenities like free Wi-Fi, parking, cafe and a bar.
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Metropol by Maier Privathotels
Metropol by Maier Privathotels is a small, family‑run hotel in Munich that offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The hotel has 74 rooms with air conditioning, attached bathrooms, and free Wi‑Fi. Guests can enjoy a rich breakfast buffet for a great start to a long day at the festival.
Sofitel Munich Bayerpost
Located in the heart of Munich, Sofitel Munich Bayerpost is known for a luxurious stay with easy access to transportation. This 5-star hotel is housed in a former Royal Bavarian Post Office with a classic stone façade and modern interiors. It features 339 comfortable rooms and 57 spacious suites for business or leisure travelers, each of which is equipped with modern facilities.
Wombat’s City Hostel Munich Hauptbahnhof
If you are looking for a budget stay option during Oktoberfest, Wombat’s City Hostel is a great choice. The hostel has dormitory-style rooms as well as private rooms (some with terraces), private bathrooms, a lively bar (WomBAR), and a bright inner courtyard with trees and hammocks. It won the ‘Hoscar’ for the most popular hostel in Munich.
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Top Restaurants and Cafes to Explore During Oktoberfest
Wirtshaus in der Au
Opened in 1901, Wirtshaus in der Au is a traditional Bavarian tavern housed in a historic beer hall in Munich. It is popular for serving the biggest potato dumplings in the city Bavarian dishes, and Paulaner beer in a cozy, old‑style setting with a beer garden.
Schneider Bräuhaus im Tal
Located in the Old Town, Schneider Bräuhaus im Tal stands on the same site where Georg I. Schneider first brewed wheat beer for everyone in 1872. Today you can enjoy Schneider Weisse beers and genuine Bavarian food in a cozy, historic setting near Marienplatz and Viktualienmarkt.
Bratwurstherzl am Viktualienmarkt
For a quick, delicious, and quintessential German meal, head to Bratwurstherzl right by the bustling Viktualienmarkt. This cozy, rustic eatery grills its specialty sausages over an open beech wood fire, giving them an incredible smoky flavor.
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Schmalznudel – Café Frischhut
Located near the Viktualienmarkt, Café Frischhut is the perfect place for a sweet breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up. It has a simple menu and boasts an old-school vibe. The cafe is particularly famous for freshly fried doughnuts.
Insider Tips for Visiting Oktoberfest
- Reserve a Tent Table in advance or arrive early to secure a good spot
- While some vendors accept cards, cash is the preferred method of payment
- Bring cash (Euro) to avoid lines at onsite ATMs that charge very high fee
- Wear traditional Bavarian attire for an authentic experience
- Learn a few German phrases like ‘Prost!’ (Cheers!), ‘Danke’ (Thank you) and ‘Bitte’ (Please) for interacting with locals
Oktoberfest is a family-friendly event during the day, with lively parties in the evening. Once you step on the grounds of Theresienwiese, there will not be a single moment where you feel dull. For the best experience of Oktoberfest 2025, consider booking one of our Munich tour packages that offer premium stays, seamless travel and personalized itineraries catering to your interests. Plan today and get ready to dive into the world of tradition, food and a whole lot of entertainment right in the heart of Germany!
FAQ’s – Oktoberfest 2025
Entry to the Oktoberfest grounds and the beer tents is completely free. You only pay for what you consume, such as beer, food, and any carnival rides you go on.
While not mandatory, many attendees wear traditional Bavarian clothing. For men, this is Lederhosen (leather trousers), and for women, it is the Dirndl (a traditional dress with a blouse and apron). It adds to the fun and festive atmosphere.
No, you don't need to be fluent in German to attend Oktoberfest. Most staff in the tents and around Munich speak English, especially given the international crowd. However, learning a few basic phrases like "Prost!" (Cheers!) allows you to interact with locals and make friends.
Yes, you can attend Oktoberfest even if you do not consume beer. While it is a beer festival, there are plenty of other things to enjoy. All tents serve non-alcoholic beverages like water and soda, and some have wine. The fairgrounds feature rides, games, and incredible food stalls.
Yes, it is generally safe for solo female travelers to attend Oktoberfest. However, like any large festival, it is important to be aware of your surroundings. Stay in well-lit areas at night, don’t leave your drink unattended, and know your limits.
The price changes slightly each year but expect to pay between €12 and €14 for a one-liter stein (a "Maß") of beer. Remember to tip your server as well.
Reservation for beer tents at Oktoberfest is not required but are highly recommended for groups, especially on evenings and weekends. If you don't have one, your best chance to find a seat is by arriving on a weekday afternoon in the unreserved sections.
Oktoberfest offers a huge variety of delicious Bavarian food. You'll find classics like giant pretzels, bratwurst (sausage), Schweinshaxe (roasted pork knuckle), and Hendl (roast chicken). There are also plenty of sweet treats and snacks.
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