The Oktoberfest in Munich

The philosophy

How can you explain the Munich Oktoberfest, or "Wiesn", as the locals call it?

A few figures might help: Over 6 million “Maß” (1-liter glasses) of beer are drunk, half a million fried chickens are eaten and an unknown number of dirndls and lederhosen, the traditional Bavarian costumes, can be seen during the Oktoberfest.

But figures are not enough to describe the world’s biggest fun fair. The Wiesn is as colorful and as diversified as its visitors. And every visitor has his very own Wiesn experience.

Many visitors think of the beer tents as the major attraction. When people lift their glasses to say “Prost” (the Bavarian “cheers”) and when visitors from all over the world are dancing on the benches to the sounds of DJ Ötzi, you make new friends and have a real good time.

Outside the tents you experience fun of a different kind. There are nostalgic as well as modern fun rides: test your courage in one of the roller coasters with several loopings, enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Wiesn or visit one of the historic Wiesn attractions, for example the Schichtl with his magic theatre, the Teufelsrad (devil’s wheel) or the notorious conveyor belt of the Toboggan, which you shouldn’t try if you already had a “Maß” beer or two.

The true Wiesn insider knows: The Oktoberfest is more than Bavarian beer and adrenalin – and its atmosphere is hard to capture. You 'd better experience it yourself.

By the way: The working committee "Sicherheit auf der Wiesn” (Oktoberfest security), which consists of the organizing committee and all public authorities, is working out security measures to make the Wiesn safer. Each year, they adapt these measures, taking all currently known risks into consideration.

Some useful tips:

Book your accommodation way in advance! Munich and the surrounding area are completely booked out during the Oktoberfest.

If you would like to visit the beer tents in a group of several people, you should book a table (ideally 8-12 months in advance).

All Information on the Oktoberfest 2011 you can find in our Wiesn-Special.

We are happy to organize your Oktoberfest trip for you. Just send an enquiry to info(at)guide-to-bavaria.com.