Oktoberfest, commonly called the Wiesn, is the world-famous annual beer and folk festival held on the Theresienwiese in Munich, Bavaria. It traditionally begins in late September and runs for about sixteen to eighteen days, ending on the first Sunday in October; when the national holiday Day of German Unity falls during the festival the schedule is extended to include 3 October. The event combines large tented beer halls, food stalls, carnival rides and parades, attracting around six million visitors each year.

Origins and development

The first celebration that became modern Oktoberfest was held in 1810 to mark the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Bavaria, after whom the fairground is named. Over two centuries it evolved from a local horse race and court festival into an international public event. The timing shifted to September over time to take advantage of milder weather, and the fair acquired many permanent rituals, booths and tent structures.

Characteristics and traditions

Central features include the giant beer tents run by Munich breweries, traditional Bavarian clothing, music and processions. Beer is typically served in one-litre mugs called Maß, and the official opening is signalled when the mayor taps the first keg—a celebrated ritual that marks the start of pouring. Visitors often wear Trachten such as lederhosen and dirndl, and live brass bands provide much of the atmosphere.

  • Typical foods: roast chicken, pretzels, sausages and other Bavarian specialties.
  • Official Munich breweries that supply tents: Augustiner, Hacker‑Pschorr, Hofbräu, Löwenbräu, Paulaner, Spaten.
  • Entertainment: brass bands, folk dances, funfair attractions and parades.

Visiting and significance

For many visitors Oktoberfest is a cultural experience as much as a party: it showcases regional dress, music and cuisine and generates a substantial economic boost for Munich. There are family days, official safety measures and advance reservations for the busiest tents. The fair has also inspired similar celebrations worldwide, but the original Munich event remains the largest and most influential.

Notable facts and context

Locals sometimes simply call the event Oktoberfest or Wiesn. The festival's calendar rules and occasional extension to 3 October reflect Germany's modern history: the inclusion of the national holiday connects the event to the country's reunification and to the moment when the former states known as East Germany and West Germany became one again in 1990.