What is Oktoberfest, and why is it celebrated?

Oktoberfest, the world’s largest folk festival, is also the most popular celebration worldwide, drawing millions of visitors every year. It all started back on October 12, 1810, when the crown prince of Bavaria, later known as King Louis I, married Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. The festivities kicked off with a horse race, held in an area that would later be named Theresienwiese, or Therese’s green, in honor of the princess. Over the years, the event grew in size and scope, evolving from a simple horse race into a two-week annual festival, culminating on the first Sunday in October.

In the following years, the festival introduced booths serving food and drink, eventually giving rise to the beer halls that have become a hallmark of the event. These beer halls are temporary structures, often made of plywood and featuring interior balconies and bandstands for entertainment. Each of the Munich brewers builds a hall with seating capacities of about 6,000 people, where the mayor of Munich taps the first keg to open the festival officially. The celebrations include parades, beer wagons, floats, and participants in folk costumes, along with plenty of games, amusement rides, music, and dancing. This festival’s appeal has remained so strong that it now draws more than 6 million people, including many tourists,to enjoy this historic and vibrant celebration of Bavarian culture. In terms of beer consumption, it’s no small feat either—75,800 hectolitres (about 2 million gallons) are consumed during the course of the festival, making it an iconic and deeply rooted part of Munich’s culture

The History of Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest, the world's largest folk festival, began as a royal wedding celebration on October 12, 1810, when Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The event, held in Munich, was a grand public gathering that included horse races on the fields near the city gates. These festivities were so popular that they became an annual tradition, and by 1818, they included agricultural shows. Over the years, the festival evolved and grew, adding amusement rides, carnival games, music, dancing, and, of course, beer stands. By the late 19th century, the event had firmly established itself as a major celebration and started drawing more global attention, eventually becoming known as Oktoberfest, though it is still locally referred to as d'Wiesn.

As the years passed, the happy couple who started it all would have never imagined that their wedding would lead to one of the most popular and spectacular parties on earth. From fields to Thiersienwiese, the festival grew, maintaining its charm while expanding its appeal worldwide. Over 200 years, Oktoberfest has gone from a horse race to a full-fledged celebration attracting millions of visitors every year, all celebrating Bavarian culture and tradition. Whether it’s the royal wedding, the beer, or the cultural entertainment, every part of this festival holds a deep connection to its origin, and it continues to bring people together in a unique way.

Nowadays, Oktoberfest is held worldwide

Today, Oktoberfest is celebrated in cities far beyond Munich, Germany. While Munich still hosts the largest and most famous festival, cities like Cincinnati, Chicago, and Denver in the United States have large-scale celebrations of their own. Toronto and Kitchener-Waterloo in Canada also join in, making Oktoberfest a truly global event. Even in Asia, places like Tokyo and Beijing host their own version of the festival, adding a unique local flair to the traditional German food, music, and of course, the lively beer tents.

As the festival has grown in popularity, it now spans over 16 to 18 days, usually starting in late September and lasting until the first weekend of October. In 2025, the festivities will run from Saturday, 20th September to Sunday, 5th October. Whether you're donning your lederhosen or dirndls, enjoying traditional German beers or dancing to live music, Oktoberfest has become a time to immerse in both Bavarian culture and the unique ways each country celebrates this festive spirit. From beer flowing freely to traditional dances being performed, it's clear that Oktoberfest has transformed into a worldwide festival, adapting to each culture while retaining the heart of its origin.

The first Oktoberfest: horse racing for a royal wedding

In 1810, Andreas Michael Dall'Armi, a middle-class officer in the Bavarian National Guard, proposed a unique idea to celebrate the royal wedding of Prince Regent Ludwig of Bavaria, later King Ludwig I, and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. Rather than the usual royal celebrations, Dall'Armi suggested a grand horse race. His innovative proposal was accepted by King Max I Joseph of Bavaria, and thus, the first Oktoberfest was born. The event, which took place on October 12, 1810, marked the beginning of an annual tradition. The official festivities lasted five days and concluded on October 17, with the horse race held on a large meadow outside Munich.

Although there were no beer tents or fairground rides at this initial celebration, the festival quickly became known as a folk festival, which eventually led to the establishment of the famous Theresens-Wiese. This site, named in honor of the bride, is still referred to as the Wiesn in Munich parlance today. The first celebration was marked by children dressed in Bavarian folk costumes, presenting poems, flowers, and fruits as a tribute to the royal couple. By 1824, Dall'Armi had received the city of Munich’s first gold citizens’ medal for his role in creating the Oktoberfest, and his legacy is commemorated by a street named after him in Neuhausen-Nymphenburg and his grave at the Old Southern Cemetery. Today, over six million visitors come together to celebrate Oktoberfest annually, enjoying everything from beer tents to thrilling fairground rides.

Oktoberfest in the 19th Century: From Challenges to Celebration

In the 19th century, Oktoberfest experienced both challenges and significant milestones. After the early royal wedding in 1810, which initially sparked the festival’s beginnings with horse racing and a public celebration in Munich, the festival faced difficult periods marked by war and cholera. These events threatened the festival spirit, but despite these struggles, Oktoberfest carried on, becoming more refined with each passing year. By the 1880s, it had transformed from a marriage festival into a full-fledged public holiday celebrated with beer and festivities that echoed the royal couple's original celebration.

Amidst these challenges, there were highlights like the unveiling of the statue of Bavaria, a symbol of the state’s strength, which was dedicated as a guardian figure in Oktoberfest lore. This monumental moment took place in Bavaria, marking a significant cultural shift as beer tents became larger and more popular. The first beer tent opened, followed by the roasted chicken outlet in 1881, which became a beloved food tradition for Oktoberfest visitors. The festival saw further development, with booths, carousels, and electrical lighting turning it into an event with not only beer stalls but also performers and musicians. Despite some challenging times, the event expanded, becoming a major festival with increased demand and a unique cultural experience that still lives on today.

Oktoberfest: A Journey Through the 20th Century

The Oktoberfest experienced both growth and challenges throughout the 20th century. Despite the two world wars and economic crises, it remained an enduring symbol of Bavarian tradition. However, the festival faced significant setbacks, with cancellations or scaled-down events during tough times. One notable event was in 1910, marking the 100th anniversary of the Oktoberfest. During that year, a record-breaking 12,000 hectoliters of beer were served in the Pschorr-Bräurosl, which was the largest festival tent of its time, seating 12,000 people. The festivities became more exciting over the years, with new and increasingly thrilling rides added annually. The horse race, once a mainstay, was discontinued after World War II, only making a return during significant anniversary years like 1960 and 2010.

The tradition of tapping the first beer barrel began in 1950 when Munich's mayor Thomas Wimmer did it for the first time at the Schottenhamel. Despite his momentous role, his attempt earned an infamous record for being the worst tapping in Wiesn history with 17 shots. Since then, the Lord Mayor has had the honor of tapping the keg, and the phrase "O'zapft is" has become an iconic part of the festival. Over time, the event evolved with the Bavarian Minister-President being presented with the first pint. The festival's history also took a tragic turn on September 26, 1980, when a bomb exploded at the main entrance to the Oktoberfest. The blast killed 13 people and injured over 200 visitors. The assassin, Gundolf Köhler, was also among the victims. The event remains one of the darkest chapters in German history, but in 2014, the investigation was reopened, reflecting the continued significance of the tragedy.

The Assassination Attempt of September 26, 1980

On September 26, 1980, a devastating right-wing terrorist attack shocked the world at the Oktoberfest grounds. Gundolf Köhler, the assailant, tried to cause havoc by detonating a bomb at the main entrance of Theresienwiese, right in front of a memorial dedicated to the victims. Tragically, 12 people lost their lives in the blast, and 221 others were injured. The attack is remembered as one of the most horrific acts of terrorism in the Federal Republic of Germany.

The site of the bombing has since become a place of remembrance and reflection. The Oktoberfest Bomb Attack Documentation was developed with survivors to ensure the memory of the attack would not fade. The illuminated silhouettes of victims stand as a poignant tribute, placed across an area of 13 x 19 meters, symbolizing the lives lost. This documentation also provides digital and analogue insights into the events, offering visitors an opportunity to understand the scale of the tragedy. Friedrich Koller’s monument, along with a commemorative plaque at Munich City Hall, continues to honor the lives affected by this tragedy, reminding all who visit of the profound impact of the bombing. On the 40th anniversary, the documentation was handed over to the public, a somber reminder of the past. Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier was present at the commemorative event, honoring the memories of the victims.

The Cultural Impact of Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is more than just a beer festival—it’s a vibrant celebration of Bavarian culture and history. The festival is a living expression of community values that have been passed down through generations. With traditional costumes, lively music, and centuries-old brewing practices, Oktoberfest holds a deep cultural significance that brings people together. For those who attend, it’s not just about enjoying beer; it’s about embracing the rich traditions that make the festival special and witnessing how these time-honored practices continue to shape the culture today.

The true essence of Oktoberfest lies in the sense of community it fosters. As people from all around the world gather to celebrate, they become part of something much larger than themselves. The festival helps to preserve and showcase Bavarian heritage, allowing visitors to experience the unique charm of the region. Whether you’re enjoying a beer, dancing to traditional music, or admiring the traditional costumes, Oktoberfest offers an immersive experience that honors Bavarian culture while bringing it to life in a modern setting.

Traditional Costumes: Lederhosen and Dirndl

The tradition of wearing Lederhosen and Dirndl dates back to the 19th century, when both the aristocracy and the bourgeoisie embraced the practice of Sommerfrische—retreating to the countryside during summer. Even Emperor Franz Joseph I himself was a fan of wearing Lederhosen! These traditional outfits have since become symbols of German pride, and their history is deeply tied to the lifestyle and development of Germany. Lederhosen, originally worn by men for forestry work and hunting, and the Dirndl, made of wool or linen, were both practical yet reflective of class. While the privileged wore fine materials like silk and cotton, the working class had to settle for affordable fabrics. Both outfits represented a piece of history and culture.

The Dirndl and Lederhosen have evolved over time, and their recognizable appearance is now synonymous with Oktoberfest. Even after centuries, these costumes still embody the essence of German culture and are regularly seen during festivals, especially at the famous Oktoberfest. The costumes have become iconic, representing not just traditional dress but also the deep connection to German heritage. Wearing Lederhosen or a Dirndl today is more than just a fashion choice—it’s a way to celebrate German pride and embrace the spirit of festivals, where these traditional garments continue to hold special meaning.

Fun and Festive Foods of Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is a celebration that’s not just about the beer but also about the hearty and heavy foods that pair perfectly with it. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, vintage pretzel or a crispy, half-grilled chicken, complemented by a cold Oktoberfestbier. Other festive foods include Bratwurst, juicy sausages, and savory pork knuckles. Don’t forget about the schnitzel served with sauerkraut, or the cheesy delight of Käsespätzle. For those with a sweet tooth, beer pudding, dumplings, and Apfelstrudel are perfect choices. With 6 million visitors each year, Oktoberfest brings these authentic, local ingredients together to create a truly unforgettable experience.

As you enjoy the best Oktoberfest foods, you’ll also find an abundance of pork shanks, whole chickens, and fish, all washed down with a refreshing German beer. The combination of these festive foods and German beer is what makes Oktoberfest such a unique and fun event. Whether you're a meat lover or a vegetarian, Oktoberfest has something delicious for everyone. I’ve personally enjoyed the Kaiserschmarrn, a dessert that offers the perfect balance of sweetness after a filling meal. It’s all about the experience, the culture, and the delicious dishes that come together at this iconic festival.

Showmen and Entertainment at Oktoberfest

One of the highlights of Oktoberfest is the vibrant entertainment provided by the showmen. Every year, they bring a variety of exciting rides, games, and attractions that are central to the festival’s unique atmosphere. From the exhilarating roller coasters to the traditional Bavarian games, these experiences draw both locals and tourists who are looking for a fun-filled day at the festival. The showmen play an essential role in creating the joyful, lively spirit that Oktoberfest is known for, allowing visitors to enjoy the festive vibe in a truly immersive way.

The entertainment is not just about the rides, though. The showmen also offer delicious food and treats, from Bavarian specialties to sweet snacks, keeping the crowd energized throughout the day. Their booths are often adorned with colorful decorations, adding to the already festive ambiance. As you stroll through the festival grounds, you can hear the sounds of laughter and cheers as families and friends enjoy the attractions together. It’s this combination of traditional Bavarian culture and modern-day fun that makes Oktoberfest an unforgettable experience for all.

Final thoughts

Oktoberfest Through the Ages: From Royal Wedding to Global Festivity

Oktoberfest is not just a celebration of beer; it’s a vibrant showcase of Bavarian culture and history. From its humble beginnings as a royal wedding celebration to its evolution into a global phenomenon, Oktoberfest has become a symbol of tradition, community, and joy. The festival’s blend of cultural heritage, lively music, traditional costumes, and delicious food creates an atmosphere that attracts millions of people from all over the world each year. Whether in Munich or celebrated in other cities around the globe, the spirit of Oktoberfest brings people together to experience the rich traditions of Bavaria in a modern and festive setting. It’s a celebration that transcends borders, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the warmth and vibrancy of Bavarian culture, making it a truly unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Oktoberfest and why is it celebrated?

The festival originated on October 12, 1810, in celebration of the marriage of the crown prince of Bavaria, who later became King Louis I, to Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen.

When exactly is Oktoberfest in Germany?

How to tell if a girl is single at Oktoberfest?

If the bow is on the left, the woman in question is single. That's where the saying “Schleife links, Glück bringt's!” (“Bow on the left, that is best”) comes from. Taken women, on the other hand, put their bow on the right.

Which celebrity is banned from Oktoberfest?

Did you know Paris Hilton is banned from Oktoberfest? You would if you were at Oktoberfest Trivia! Cheers to Oktoberfest, beer, pretzels, and our great residents!