When is it on?
The Munich Oktoberfest is held annually on the Theresienwiese (the “Wiesn”). In 2026 the festival runs from September 19 to October 4. Opening times vary by day and by tent — check official tent pages for exact hours before you go.
Short history
Oktoberfest began in 1810 as a public celebration for Crown Prince Ludwig’s wedding to Princess Therese. What started as a week of horse racing and city festivities has grown into the world’s largest Volksfest — a mix of beer culture, music, food and a huge travelling fair.
Beer tents & reservations
The heart of the Wiesn are the beer tents run by Munich’s breweries. Entry to the festival site itself is free, and many tents reserve a portion of seats for walk-ins — but during peak times tents fill quickly. If you want a guaranteed seat, especially for evenings and groups, book a table in advance using OktoberfestReservation.com.
- Large tents (e.g. Schottenhamel, Hofbräu) are lively and usually require reservations at peak times.
- Smaller and family tents offer a calmer vibe with easier walk-in access during the day.
Rides & attractions
Beyond beer tents, the Wiesn hosts a vast fairground: family carousels, high-thrill rollercoasters like the Olympia-Looping, swing rides, a Ferris wheel and Bavarian fairground stalls. Some rides take cash only, so plan ahead.
What else is on
Expect traditional music, parades, Bavarian food stands (roasted chicken, pretzels, sausages), live bands, and a special "Oidn Wiesn" area for historic attractions and a more traditional feel. Family days also offer discounts and quieter moments for kids and seniors.
Practical tips
- Entry to the site is free — but tents are extremely popular; book ahead for guaranteed seating.
- Arrive early for lunch spots or visit midweek to avoid peak crowds.
- Carry ID and wear comfy shoes — Oktoberfest is huge and involves lots of walking.
- Book safely via official tent sites or trusted partners like OktoberfestReservation.com.