This year marks the 190th edition of the famous Oktoberfest – the largest and most well-known folk festival in the world. Every year it’s a place of unforgettable encounters, meeting friends and familiar faces, and simply having a good time (Gaudi).
But what traditions are behind it – and what makes it so special?
Opening Ceremony
Oktoberfest always kicks off with the Grand Entry of the Wiesn innkeepers. Thousands of spectators line the route that ends at the Theresienwiese, as the innkeepers are brought to their tents in horse-drawn carriages.
The official tapping of the first beer keg traditionally takes place at exactly 12 noon in the Schottenhamel tent, performed by Munich’s mayor with the famous words: “O’zapft is!” (“It’s tapped!”).
The first Maß (1-liter beer mug) is then served to the Minister President of Bavaria.
Only after the cannons are fired by the marksmen in front of the Bavaria statue is beer officially allowed to be served in the other tents.
Cheers – Prost!
Not All Beer Tents Are the Same
There are 14 large beer tents and 21 medium-sized and smaller tents, plus 3 more tents on the Oidn Wiesn (Traditional Oktoberfest area).
All tents serve only beer from the six traditional Munich breweries, brewed especially for the festival months in advance and certified as official “Oktoberfestbier”: Augustiner-Bräu, Hacker-Pschorr, Hofbräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, and Spaten.
You can also spot all six beer logos on the most famous maypole in the world, located right in the middle of the Viktualienmarkt near Marienplatz in Munich’s old town.
Don’t miss: A peek inside the Hacker-Festzelt – called “The Bavarian Heaven” – and the Marstall tent right by the main entrance, featuring its iconic horse carousel.
Unique Rides and Attractions
There are many amazing rides and attractions you’ll only find at Oktoberfest.
Right at the entrance on Matthias Pschorr Street, you’ll find the Toboggan.
At first glance, it’s “just” a tall slide tower – but every local knows it’s a yearly highlight.
As the beer flows and the evening progresses, it becomes quite the show watching people try to balance on the moving conveyor belt to reach the top – often with acrobatic (and hilarious) results.
Don’t miss the Devil’s Wheel (Teufelsrad), located in the middle of the first attraction street.
Once inside the arena, you’ll see a spinning disc where participants try to stay on as long as possible, despite various cheeky “obstacles” – all to the roaring laughter and commentary of the crowd.
Absolutely unforgettable!
And have you ever heard of the Weißbier Carousel? No? Then hop on and enjoy the ride! 🍻🎡
Starting Saturday, it’s once again time to head out to the Wiesn!
That means Theresienwiese, the large festival grounds under the watchful gaze of the Bavaria statue.
Book Your Oktoberfest Tour Now!
Oktoberfest Grounds Sightseeing – SeeSaw Sight
