Oktoberfest, the well-known beer festival in Munich, Germany, is a conventional Bavarian cultural birthday party from mid-September to October’s first Sunday. Wiesn is renowned globally for its vibrant ecosystem, bustling with individuals in Bavarian lederhosen, males and females in German Dirndls, accompanied by way of conventional music. And, most appreciably, its sizeable array of Oktoberfest tents, including both large and small tents.
Originating in 1810 from a grand wedding party of the Bavarian crown Prince and Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen, the occasion has advanced appreciably from its humble beginnings with small beer booths and Oide Wiesn to now providing massive Munich Oktoberfest tents and, therefore, has a large economic effect on the USA
There are 17 large and 21 small beer tents at Oktoberfest. With a wealth of records dating back to the early nineteenth century, each tent offers a unique experience in setting new beer consumption records every year. Festival-goers ate up about 7 million liters of beer through 2024. These tents in Oktoberfest, controlled via impartial households or nearby breweries, start construction as early as three months earlier than the pageant to deal with the large influx of attendees.
Oktoberfest beer tents are the heart of the celebration, offering an unforgettable blend of Bavarian tradition, culture, and social connection. Each tent pours beer from one of Munich’s six iconic breweries, creating a truly authentic experience. Long communal tables encourage a friendly, festive atmosphere, while live brass bands play traditional tunes, filling the air with unmistakable Bavarian spirit.
Guests can savor hearty German favorites like fresh-baked pretzels, juicy sausages, and crispy roast chicken—all perfectly paired with specially brewed Oktoberfest beer served in classic one-liter steins. The experience is elevated by barmaids dressed in traditional dirndls, adding a genuine local touch.
To fully enjoy everything the festival has to offer, securing your Oktoberfest 2025 tent reservations in advance is a must. It’s the key to immersing yourself in the true spirit of Oktoberfest.
Oktoberfest features 17 grand beer tents, each seating more than 3,000 guests and standing as impressive feats of temporary architecture. Designed with central aisles, side boxes, and upper balconies, these large Oktoberfest beer tents offer both functionality and festive charm. Set up annually on the Theresienwiese fairgrounds in the heart of Munich, each tent is hosted by one of the city’s six renowned breweries, showcasing their finest Oktoberfest brews.
These iconic tents are not just places to drink—they’re immersive experiences that reflect the unique character of their hosts. From traditional decor to musical performances and signature menus, each large tent has its distinct flair. Below is a ranking of the most popular Oktoberfest beer tents to help you choose where to book your spot.
Established in 1898, the Augustiner Festhalle is the oldest and one of the most cherished big tents at Oktoberfest. It stands out for serving its renowned Augustiner Bräu beer straight from traditional wooden barrels—a rare and authentic touch that beer enthusiasts love. The lively atmosphere is enhanced by the Augustiner festival band, which blends classic Bavarian brass with modern tunes and folk dance performances.
This tent is also known for its hearty meat dishes, all freshly prepared using ingredients from its in-house butcher. With a warm, welcoming vibe, it’s especially popular with families and traditionalists alike.
Dating back to 1895, the Armbrustschützenzelt celebrates Bavaria’s rich hunting and crossbow-shooting traditions. It features a 30-meter shooting range and a festive yet calm ambiance compared to other large tents. Traditional brass music by the Platzl-Oktoberfestkapelle band fills the air while guests enjoy hearty meat dishes, regional specialties, and classic Bavarian desserts.
Located in the southern area of Theresienwiese, Festzelt Tradition captures the essence of old Bavaria. With exclusive brass music led by Wolfgang Grünbauer and daily folk dance shows, this tent offers a family-friendly atmosphere. A children’s lemonade fountain and special amenities for young guests add to its charm.
Steeped in history with over 121 years of tradition, Pschorr Bräurosl underwent a major transformation in 2022. It now stands as Oktoberfest’s tallest tent at 15 meters, featuring a covered loggia and a dynamic design. Known for its in-house yodeler and spirited South Tyrolean Spitzbuam performances, it also proudly hosts the LGBTQ+ friendly “Gay Sunday.”
Famous for its mouth-watering Steckerlfisch—whole fish grilled on sticks over a 15-meter open flame—Fischer-Vroni offers a seafood twist to the Oktoberfest experience. The tent welcomes a mixed crowd, including families, and is known for its warm, inviting atmosphere and traditional Bavarian music performed by Sepp Folger and his Munich musicians.
This cultural tent, founded in 2010, reflects the soul of modern Munich. Named after comedian Jörg Hube’s iconic character, Herzkasperl Festzelt combines folk music, theater, cabaret, and literary performances. It’s a favorite for younger crowds and those seeking an alternative Oktoberfest vibe with vegetarian, vegan, and traditional food options.
A celebrity favorite, Käfer Wiesn-Schänke is known for its intimate, lodge-style charm with alpine flair. Richly decorated with antiques and flowers, the tent serves gourmet Bavarian dishes, including the famous crispy Käfer duck. With live performances by various bands, it’s a hotspot for late-night revelers.
Nicknamed “Heaven of Bavaria,” this massive tent charms guests with its light-blue ceiling painted with clouds and scenes of Munich life. Hosting up to 9,300 guests, it’s home to nonstop live music by Die Kirchdorfer and the Cagey Strings. The menu features regional favorites including ox, pork knuckle, and vegetarian delights.
With space for nearly 10,000 guests, Hofbräu-Festzelt is one of Oktoberfest’s liveliest and most international tents. It features a unique standing area under decorative hop vines and serves Hofbräu’s strong, full-bodied Oktoberfestbier. The musical lineup combines traditional Bavarian tunes with English pop for a vibrant party atmosphere.
For something a bit different, Kufflers Weinzelt offers a wine-centric twist on Oktoberfest. Open until 1 AM, this tent features a cozy alpine setting and an impressive selection of wines, Prosecco, and champagne. The menu blends Bavarian classics with international and Asian cuisine, drawing in celebrities and night owls alike.
With its iconic 4.5-meter roaring lion above the entrance, the Löwenbräu-Festzelt is one of the most recognizable big tents at Oktoberfest. A favorite among TSV 1860 München fans, this tent has been a staple of the festival since 1910. The lively setting attracts a diverse crowd, including a strong Italian presence, and can host up to 8,500 guests. English-language pop hits and over 16,000 glowing bulbs create an atmosphere similar to an English pub, making it a great option for international visitors. Expect hearty Bavarian classics like duck and pork sausages, along with unique offerings such as Carinthian porcini noodles and vegan dishes.
First introduced in 2014, the Marstall-Festzelt is a newer addition to Oktoberfest, but one that quickly earned its place. Inspired by equestrian traditions and Art Nouveau design, it combines elegance with a fun, party atmosphere. During the day, it’s a family-friendly venue with a cozy “Oktoberfest living room” feel; at night, it turns into a lively celebration with premium beer, wine, and even champagne. The menu includes everything from black tiger prawns and venison to traditional dishes and vegan-friendly options.
The Ochsenbraterei is a meat lover’s paradise, famous for its slow-roasted oxen, each displayed with its name and weight. Serving Spaten beer, this tent offers a perfect mix of old-world charm and modern festivity. Established in 1881, it continues to roast around 90 oxen each year in an open kitchen. Brass bands set the mood during the day, while modern hits pump up the energy after dark. Expect sustainable, locally sourced cuisine, including vegetarian and vegan options.
Towering with its rotating beer mug, the Paulaner-Festzelt is a landmark tent at Oktoberfest. It’s known for its sunny beer garden, a bright, open layout, and a welcoming crowd. A favorite for both locals and international guests, this tent has been part of the festival since 1895. It serves Paulaner beer and boasts a diverse food menu, including vegetarian and vegan selections. Live traditional brass music by Die Nockherberger gives way to evening performances by the party band Nachtstark.
The beating heart of Oktoberfest tradition, Festhalle Schottenham, is where the festival officially begins with the tapping of the first keg by Munich’s mayor. As the oldest tent on the Wiesn, dating back to 1867, it holds historical significance and a youthful spirit. With its signature square seating layout, the tent fosters a communal vibe. During the day, brass bands play traditional tunes, transitioning to disco-style beats in the evening—ideal for younger crowds and party-seekers.
One of the oldest Oktoberfest tents, the Schützen-Festzel, has charmed guests since 1876. With its stunning south-facing balcony, this tent is a magnet for nobility, celebrities, and locals alike. After a 2015 renovation, it now offers a modern setting paired with deep Bavarian traditions. Enjoy soothing brass tunes by day and pop/rock beats at night. The menu includes specialties like suckling pig in malt beer sauce, bacon coleslaw, and Kaiserschmarrn.
The Schützenlisl tent, officially known as Volkssängerzelt Schützenlisl, made its debut in 2022 and quickly became a cozy cultural favorite. It celebrates Munich’s folk music roots with daily performances led by Traudi Siferlinger. Expect sing-alongs, tavern tunes, and old-school Bavarian vibes. The menu features regional specialties like Obazda, Leberkäse, meatballs, roast pork, and vegetarian-friendly options—all served with Augustiner or Hacker-Pschorr beer in traditional stone mugs.
While the massive beer halls grasp most of the attention at Oktoberfest in Munich, the small beer tents offer a more intimate, regularly cozier, and uniquely flavorful revel in. These charming venues are scattered alongside the bigger tents at the Theresienwiese grounds and normally seat up to one,000 visitors or fewer. They’re famed for his or her specialised menus, circle of relatives-pleasant vibes, and distinct Bavarian flair. From organic rotisserie chicken to gourmand desserts and Alpine cheeses, these tents are wherein culinary craftsmanship meets traditional pageant attraction.
The World’s First Chicken Roastery (Since 1885)
A family favorite, Ammer is legendary for its organic roast chicken and duck, served from wooden casks of Augustiner beer. During the day, it offers kid-friendly meals and coloring menus, while evenings evolve into a lively party with bands like Erik & Otto and Saustoi.
Bodo’s is where sweet cravings meet party vibes. Famous for its kirschwasser donuts and homemade cakes, it transforms from a cozy café to a cocktail hotspot by night, complete with Prosecco, champagne, and music.
A Sweet Spectacle with Munich’s Only Oktoberfest Catwalk
Step into a sugar-filled castle where Kaiserschmarrn is flamboyantly prepared in a giant pan. The tent offers breakfast, cocktails, and a vibrant catwalk for bands—perfect for families and the over-40 stylish crowd.
A Peaceful Cake Haven in the Midst of the Fest
Formerly Café Mohrenkopf, this tent offers freshly baked cakes and tarts, serene murals of the English Garden, and handmade wooden interiors. A perfect escape for those seeking peace without skipping the festivity.
Cheese Heaven at the Heart of Oktoberfest
Vegetarian-friendly and known for its Swiss raclette and cheese spaetzle, this tent is affectionately dubbed the “living room of Oktoberfest.” It offers a cozy beer garden and fantastic Alpine views.
For Seafood Lovers with a Taste for Quality
This maritime-themed tent serves 20+ fish dishes like Arctic char, oysters, and pike-perch. It’s Munich’s smallest Oktoberfest tent and focuses on regional, fair-trade, and organic ingredients, perfect for families and vegans.
Antique Treasures, Warm Hospitality
Step into a tent full of nostalgia, where white sausages go for just 99 cents until noon. This cozy corner is adorned with old instruments, sleds, and oil paintings—ideal for a slower-paced, intimate fest.
Alpine Style Meets Festive Performance
This alpine-themed gem offers chicken, goose, and vegan options along with morning Schuhplattler dancing and afternoon live bands. Don’t miss the famous “Hungover Rooster” breakfast sandwich!
A Legacy of Munich Poultry Tradition
Serving spit-roasted duck and chicken with secret family recipes, Heimer remains a favorite for locals and families seeking quietude. Known for its music-free dining and traditional charm.
Sausages and Poultry Since 1906
A historic small tent, Heinz is known for robust sausage and chicken dishes. Music kicks off at 5 PM daily, adding cheer to the hearty meals and Paulaner beer.
The Knuckle Specialist
Serving 10,000 pork and veal knuckles per season, Hochreiter’s offers a culinary-focused escape with figure-friendly options, live music, and re-entry for reserved guests.
Tender Veal & Late Night Disco Vibes
This pinewood-themed tent turns into a disco haven by night. Known for traditional veal specialties and live Bavarian bands like Tanzbar and Saftlmusi.
For Meat Lovers Only
With a butcher shop heritage, this alpine-style tent offers premium meats from Hofgut Schwaige, including ox entrecôte and Munich Leberkäs. A favorite lunchtime spot among locals.
The Münchner Knödelei brings the humble dumpling into the spotlight at Oktoberfest. Operated by Florian and Bettina Oberndorfer, this small tent is a dumpling lover’s paradise. From classic round versions to quirky square pretzel dumplings and the indulgent “Munich Dumpling” (infused with pretzel, roast pork, and Paulaner beer), the variety is endless. The tent draws inspiration from Karl Valentin’s comedic style, giving it a lighthearted and whimsical edge that sets it apart. Tucked away from the main hustle, it remains a hidden gem for both tourists and locals.
The Münchner Stubn beautifully blends Munich’s tradition with a modern touch. Designed like a cozy Munich townhouse, this climate-neutral tent accommodates 440 guests in a warm, wood-paneled setting. Inside, high music stages, vintage Munich photos, and a friendly atmosphere create a truly immersive experience. The menu ranges from hearty meat dishes to vegetarian and vegan options. Modern conveniences like WiFi and USB ports make it especially guest-friendly. During the day, traditional tunes play, while the band “Manyana” brings energy to the evenings.
A beloved Oktoberfest institution since 1926, Poschner’s is the go-to for perfectly grilled chicken and duck. The tent transitions from a relaxed, family-friendly space by day to a vibrant party tent by night with live music. It proudly serves Märzen beer from wooden barrels and traditional Hacker-Pschorr Oktoberfestbier. With a focus on sustainability, this climate-neutral tent offers organic, vegetarian, and vegan options and was even awarded for its accessibility.
Schiebl’s Kaffeehaferl is Oktoberfest’s smallest and coziest tent. Hidden away with only 60 seats, it’s a peaceful haven ideal for coffee lovers and families. Since 1976, the Schiebl family has delighted guests with homemade apple fritters, strudels, steamed dumplings, and their signature drink—the vibrant green “Hulk” (Prosecco with woodruff syrup). This tent is especially popular on Children’s Day.
Part café, part bar, Wiesn Guglhupf is a colorful twist on Oktoberfest tradition. With a panoramic view of the Wiesn, this café tent serves various versions of the beloved Guglhupf cake—from nut and marble to savory flavors like bacon and onion. Guests can enjoy prosecco, coffee, wine, and tea in a relaxed, family-friendly setting by day, which shifts into a social hotspot by night.
Wildstuben brings the flavors of the Bavarian forest to Oktoberfest. Styled like a traditional hunting lodge, this tent features woodsy decor, intimate seating, and a panoramic second-story view. It’s the go-to for game meat dishes such as wild boar and venison, alongside Bavarian classics like pork knuckle. With excellent service and a warm lodge ambiance, it’s a true retreat within the festival.
Wirtshaus im Schichtl offers a unique Oktoberfest experience focused on organic cuisine and theater. Located next to the legendary Schichtl sideshow with its infamous “beheadings,” this tent serves gourmet Bavarian dishes like venison goulash and white sausages. All ingredients are organic and locally sourced from Herrmannsdorfer. Wine and live music enhance the mood in this lively yet family-friendly setting.
Zur Bratwurst, previously known as Bratwurstglöckl, celebrates over 100 years of Oktoberfest tradition. Since its rebranding in 2000 under Werner Hochreiter, the tent has embodied a cozy mountain hut style reminiscent of Kitzbühel. Famous for its Augustiner beer served from 200-liter wooden barrels and its namesake bratwursts, the menu also caters to modern tastes with vegetarian and vegan options. Live rock and folk music keep the tent buzzing into the night.
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