What is Oktoberfest? A Complete Guide - Dates, Tickets, Dress Code and FAQs

You've heard the name. You've seen beer glasses the size of a small person.

And maybe you've heard talk of the weeks-long celebrations, live brass bands, all-day dancing and mass sing-alongs.

But here's the question everyone asks: What is Oktoberfest? And why is it called Oktoberfest when it mostly happens in September?

Once you get past the baffling name, Oktoberfest is one of the best travel experiences Europe has to offer.

Jump to:

🍺 What is the History of Oktoberfest? 
🍺 When Is Oktoberfest?
🍺 Where Is Oktoberfest?
🍺 What Happens at Oktoberfest?
🍺 What Food is Served at Oktoberfest? 
🍺 Do You Need Tickets For Oktoberfest?
🍺 How Much is Beer at Oktoberfest?
🍺 When's The Best Time to go to Oktoberfest?
🍺 Ten Fun Facts About Oktoberfest 
🍺 What To Wear To Oktoberfest?
🍺 Why Celebrate Oktoberfest?
🍺 Oktoberfest Tips For Travellers
🍺 Oktoberfest FAQs

What is Oktoberfest? A Complete Guide - Dates, Tickets, Dress Code and FAQs

iStock / Nikada

You may be planning your first Oktoberfest trip from the UK or Ireland. Or just wondering if the hype is worth it.

If you're considering heading to Oktoberfest, this guide is here to answer your questions.

Before we get to the important stuff, i.e. the beer, let's get some Oktoberfest basics down.

Oktoberfest is the the world's largest beer and folk festival.

It takes place every year in Munich, in the state of Bavaria in southern Germany. 

The format is so renowned that cities worldwide, from London and Dublin to Melbourne, host their own Oktoberfest celebrations.

But Munich is the real deal. And it's on so many travel wish lists worldwide that it attracts over six million visitors annually.

What is the History of Oktoberfest? 

Unsplash / Marlene Haiberger

It all started in 1810 when Bavaria's Crown Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese. The whole of Munich was invited to celebrate in a field just outside the city. 

The field was named 'Theresienwiese', after the bride. What began as a one-off wedding bash became an annual tradition.

Fast-forward 190 years and the festival still happens on the same 420,000-square-meter site.

When Is Oktoberfest?

Unsplash / Alaksiej Čarankievič

In 2025, Oktoberfest celebrates its 190th birthday. 

And it runs from Saturday 20th September to Sunday 5th October 2025.

Oktoberfest usually lasts between 16 and 18 days.

It always starts on the third Saturday in September and runs until the first Sunday in October.

Sometimes it's extended if German Unity Day (3rd October) falls later. 

Where Is Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest takes place in Munich's 42-hectare Theresienwiese field.

It's around a 15 - 20 minute walk or a two-minute U-Bahn ride from Munich's central station.

From Munich Airport, you can reach the festival grounds in under an hour by train.

So technically, a cheeky day trip to Oktoberfest isn't out of the question.

Why Is Oktoberfest In September?

When the festival started in 1810, it did happen in October.

The, after a few years of cold, rainy autumn weather, organisers got smart. They scheduled it earlier for better weather.

By the 1870s, the festival had shifted to September permanently.

The festival does creep into October for its final few days, so the name isn't completely inaccurate after all.

What Happens at Oktoberfest? 

Oktoberfest is basically a giant celebration of Bavarian culture, fuelled by beer, food and festivities.

But isn't just about the amber liquid - it's about experiencing centuries-old Bavarian culture and traditions.

Here's what to expect at Oktoberfest.

• Beer tents: Oktoberfest has around 14 large and 20 small tents, each with its own atmosphere, serving Munich's famous brews by the litre.
• Traditional German food: From roast chicken and pork knuckle to giant pretzels and gingerbread hearts.
• Music and dancing: Live oompah bands fuelling sing-alongs and plenty of lederhosen-led stomping.
• Parades and rides: Colourful processions, fairground attractions and carnival vibes.
• Bavarian culture: Traditional dress, folk music and the chance to soak up centuries-old customs.

Between steins, you can explore Munich, one of Germany's most exciting cities.

And when you need a break from the oompah, the all beauty of Bavaria lies just beyond the festival grounds.

What Time Does Oktoberfest Start? 

Adobe Free Stock / karepa

Opening Day

The festival begins at noon on the first Saturday, when Munich's mayor taps the first keg in the Schottenhamel tent.

Only after the cry of "O'zapft is!" ("It's tapped!") can beer be served.

Weekdays and Sundays at Oktoberfest

Tents usually open from around 10am and close by 11:30pm.

Fridays and Saturdays at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest's hours are extended on Fridays and Saturdays, with last orders around midnight.

Oktoberfest Fairground Opening Hours

Frank / Pixabay

Rides and attractions typically open at around 9am if you want to start the day with something gentler than a stein.

Opening Times By Tent

Each beer tent sets its own hours, so if you find a favourite, check its schedule and mentally bookmark it for later.

What Food is Served at Oktoberfest? 

Adobe Free Stock / bit24

From giant pretzels to pork knuckles, Oktoberfest is built on hearty Bavarian classics that soak up the beer. 

Here are some of the dishes you can expect to see at Oktoberfest:

• Brezn: Giant pretzels that are soft, salty, and perfect with beer.
• Hendl: Roast chicken, the classic Oktoberfest meal served in every tent.
• Schweinshaxe: This pork knuckle is slow-roasted and served with crispy crackling.
• Wurst: Sausages of all kinds, from bratwurst to weisswurst.
• Sauerkraut: The fermented cabbage side that gives that important tang.
• Kaiserschmarrn: Shredded pancakes with sugar and raisins.
• Lebkuchenherzen: Iced gingerbread hearts hung on ribbons.

Do You Need Tickets For Oktoberfest?

Here's the good news: Entry to the Oktoberfest festival grounds is completely free.

You can walk around, enjoy the atmosphere, go on the rides and browse the stalls without paying a penny for admission.

The beer tents, however, are a different story.

While you don't need tickets to enter most tents during weekdays, you'll need reservations for table service, especially on weekends and evenings.

Without a reservation, you might find yourself queuing for hours or turned away entirely during busy periods.

How Much is Beer at Oktoberfest?

Here's how the rough costs break down:

• Entry to Oktoberfest grounds: Free.
• Beer: €14.50 to €15.80 (roughly £12-14) per litre.
• Main meals: It varies between tents, but expect to pay around €15-25 (£13-21) for a main and around €20 to €30+ (£17-26) for heartier meat-based dishes such as pork knuckle and duck.
• Fairground rides: €5 to €12.50 (£4-£11) per ride.

When's The Best Time to go to Oktoberfest?

As with many festivals, weekends are the busiest time to visit Oktoberfest.

You'll need to book table reservations in advance. Most beer halls allow online booking from late spring onwards.

Weekdays are likely to be quieter at Oktoberfest. You'll likely be able to find standing room or tables without booking ahead.

So in short, if you like maximum action and participation - weekends. If you want to enjoy Oktoberfest at your own pace without booking - weekdays.

Ten Fun Facts About Oktoberfest 

Pixabay / Ralf Kronenberger

1. Oktoberfest's roots can be traced back to 1810, with a celebration of the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig. It was so popular it became an annual event.
2. The festival grounds, Theresienwiese, are named after Princess Therese. Locals call it "die Wiesn," pronounced "dee vee-zen."
3. During Oktoberfest, a staggering 500,000 to 600,000 beer mugs are washed daily. That's a lot of suds.
4. Only beer brewed within Munich city limits can be served at Oktoberfest and there are just six breweries that meet this requirement.
5. Want to know what to wear to Oktoberfest? Authentic Trachten, or traditional Bavarian clothing, is the way to go. I.e., lederhosen for men and dirndls for women.
6. Each year, around 7.7 million litres of beer are consumed at Oktoberfest. That's enough to fill three Olympic-sized swimming pools.
7. Around 13,000 people work at the festival, with bar staff and waiters making up the largest share.
8. There's a special children's day at Oktoberfest, with reduced prices on rides and food.
9. A Germany eSIM is an easy, affordable and reliable way to share your Oktoberfest photos and videos on the spot.
10. Oktoberfest is a huge boost to the local economy, generating over a billion euros for the city of Munich annually.

What To Wear To Oktoberfest

As you may have guessed, Oktoberfest comes with its very own dress code, with traditional Bavarian outfits, or Trachten, leading the way. 

Getting dressed up for the occasion is encouraged and welcomed - about 60% of festival-goers attend Oktoberfest in traditional dress.

If you want to follow suit, rocking up in authentic threads can really get you into the spirit of Oktoberfest.

What Should Women Wear to Oktoberfest? 

Unsplash / Concetta Huffa

For women wondering what to wear to Oktoberfest, the traditional outfit is the dirndl.

This eye-catching ensemble is a beautiful piece of Bavarian culture. It's made up of four key parts, often in a variety of colours and patterns:

• A crisp, white or checkered blouse with puffy sleeves.
• A fitted, corset-style bodice that cinches at the waist.
• A full, flowing skirt that traditionally falls below the knee.
• A vibrant apron that ties at the waist, adding a final splash of colour.

The bow on the waist of the dirndl apron carries a hidden meaning. If you tie it on the left, it means you're single, while on the right means you're spoken for.

If you tie it in the centre of your back, it means you're widowed or working as a waitress.

Pixabay / G.C.

How Much Does it Cost to Buy or Rent a Dirndl for Oktoberfest?

Buying new, quality dirndls in Munich will likely set you back between €100 and €200 (£85 to £175)

You can find cheaper ones or rent a dirndl for €30 to €60 (£26 to £52) a day.

What Should Men Wear to Oktoberfest? 

Pixabay / Rita und mit

For men, the classic and traditional choice is Lederhosen. These rugged leather shorts or trousers are an iconic symbol of Bavaria.

This authentic outfit is typically completed with:

• A plain or checkered traditional shirt in red, blue, or green.
• Elaborately decorated suspenders that often feature detailed embroidery.
• A pair of comfortable, sturdy Haferlschuhe (traditional Bavarian shoes) or other robust footwear.
• The traditional felt hat, often including a feather or a tuft of chamois hair and known as a Gamsbart, really completes the look.

How Much Does it Cost to Buy or Rent Lederhosen for Oktoberfest? 

You can expect to pay between €80 - €150 (£70 - £130) if you buy lederhosen or around €25 - €50 (£22 - £43) to rent lederhosen.

Why Celebrate Oktoberfest?

Oktoberfest is on millions of travellers' bucket lists for a good reason. 

Firstly, it's the biggest, best and most authentic festival of its kind anywhere in the world.

And it isn't just about beer. Although it's pretty much the best beer you can get on Earth.

Oktoberfest is also about having fun and good times alongside friends, family and other travellers.

Plus, it's remarkably well-organised. Bavarians have had almost two centuries to perfect Oktoberfest and it shows. 

You'll likely find clean facilities, efficient service, excellent beer quality and a safe, friendly atmosphere - even among massive crowds.

Oktoberfest also offers a genuine cultural experience that's simultaneously ancient and alive.

Where else can you hear traditional oompah bands, watch folk dancing, eat Bavarian cuisine and join six million people from around the world in one massive, friendly celebration?

For travellers from the UK and Ireland, Oktoberfest can feel like brilliant value compared with many European city breaks.

A litre of beer here is often around the same price - or even less per pint - than in London, but stronger at about 6%. Win-win.

Oktoberfest Tips For Travellers

Unsplash / Catrina Carrigan

The Best Options for Getting to Munich

Munich Airport is well-connected to the UK and Ireland, with direct flights from London, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Dublin.

Budget airlines often run special Oktoberfest routes in September.

The flight time from most major UK and Irish airports is around 2 to 2.5 hours.

If you prefer travelling overland, you can take a train from the UK to Munich with relative ease.

Alternatively, if you're into slow travel, Flixbus operates a London Victoria to Munich route. With one change in Amsterdam, the trip takes around 22 hours.

How to Get to Oktoberfest from Munich Centre

Unsplash / Denise Jaouadi

Once you're in Munich, it's easy to make your way to Oktoberfest.

It's one U-Bahn stop from Munich Central Station, i.e., a journey that takes just one to three minutes. 

Take the U4 or U5 lines to Theresienwiese station or catch the U3 or U6 to Goetheplatz station.

Either will get you within walking distance of the main gates.

From Marienplatz it's around five minutes by S-Bahn to Hackerbrücke, plus a 10-minute walk to the site.

For more information on how to get to Oktoberfest, visit the transport page on the official website.

How to Get to Oktoberfest from Munich Airport 

It's completely possible to make a flying visit to Oktoberfest, coming in and out of Munich Airport. Here are some ways to pull it off.

The S-Bahn from Munich Airport to Oktoberfest

Unsplash / Gaspar Uhas

Take the S1 or S8 line from Munich Airport to Hauptbahnhof or Hackerbrücke, which takes around 35 to 40 mins.

From Hauptbahnhof, it's one U-Bahn stop on the U4 or U5 lines to Theresienwiese, taking around one minute. 

Or if you prefer to walk from the centre of Munich, it's just 10 to 15 minutes on foot from Hackerbrücke.

For tickets, the Airport-City-Day-Ticket for zones M-5 is the easiest pick, either single or group. Tickets are available via MVV machines or the official app. You must validate your tickets before travelling. 

Take the Lufthansa Express Bus to Oktoberfest

A direct coach to Munich Central Station runs every 20 mins and takes around 45 mins. From there, hop on U4/U5 to Theresienwiese as above, or walk to the site.

How Much is a Taxi to Oktoberfest?

Another option is to take a taxi from Munich Airport, which would get you door-to-door in roughly 35 to 45 mins. You can expect it to cost between €85 and €105 (£74 and £92) and likely more more during peak times.

Where to Stay During Oktoberfest

Needless to say, booking Oktoberfest accommodation months in advance means you get a good pick of varieties and prices.

Munich hotels triple their rates during Oktoberfest and budget options will be fully booked closer to the event.

But if you're making an impulsive last-minute dash to the festival, all may not be lost.

There may be hotels still available for reasonable rates in nearby towns like Augsburg or Ingolstad.

Oktoberfest: Is Cash or Card Better? 

Adobe Free Stock / maho

Although most of us get through life without seeing a single coin nowadays, market stalls, fairgrounds and old-school vendors often favour cash and Oktoberfest is no different.

Cash is king at Oktoberfest and if you don't have any to hand, you may find yourself in a bit of a bind.

Prevent getting stuck in the middle of a huge field without easy access to funds, withdraw some euros before you head off. 

There are ATMs at the festival site, but many charge withdrawal fees. 

Should You Learn a Little German for Oktoberfest?

It isn't essential to speak German at Oktoberfest.

But like anywhere you go, learning a little of the language helps and will likely be appreciated by locals.

Here are some German/Bavarian phrases that may help you at Oktoberfest.

• "Ein Maß, bitte" (ine MAHSS, BIT-teh): One litre of beer, please.
• "Prost!" (prohst) : Cheers!
• "Noch eins, bitte" (nohkh ayns BIT-teh): Another one, please.
• "Wo ist das Zelt?" (voh ist dahss tsel-t): Where is the tent?
• "Entschuldigung" (ent-SHOOL-dee-goong): Excuse me / sorry.
• "Wo ist die Toilette, bitte?" (voh ist dee toy-LET-teh, BIT-teh): Where is the bathroom please?
• "Danke" (DAHN-keh): Thank you.
• "Tschüss" (chooss): Bye!

Insider Tips for Surviving Oktoberfest

If you're determined to get all the best spots and experiences from Oktoberfest, you'll need a festival game plan. 

Here are a few insider tips from previous attendees to help you through:

• Arrive before noon if you're determined to secure spots in the more popular tents
• Eat first, drink afterwards
• Take time to enjoy the wider event - from the music to the food to the fair 
• Standing on benches to sing, dance and participate is encouraged, but never stand on tables
• Bring decorative pins to trade with newfound buddies 
• If you're staying until closing time and find a good spot, stick with it 
• Don't be afraid to ask others if you can join them if there are free spaces around them
• It's more fun if you learn the songs
• Make time to explore Munich - renting a bike and cycling between beer gardens is highly recommended.

Staying Safe at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is remarkably safe for such a large event, but taking the usual safety precautions when travelling is always wise.

This includes keeping cash out of sight and valuables in a safe place, familiarising yourself with your routes and surroundings and planning your way back in advance if you're staying out late.

Share Your Best Oktoberfest Moments with a Germany eSIM

Any place where huge crowds gather can mean slower access to public or event Wi-Fi.

Don't get cut off at Oktoberfest - download a Germany eSIM from Airalo before you travel.

It means you stay connected to navigate from Munich, check timetables, call taxis, use translation apps and, of course, share your best bits on social media.

Plus, an eSIM for Germany removes the risk of shock roaming charges, leaving you with more euros for beer, pretzels and renting that outfit. 

What is Oktoberfest? A Complete Guide - FAQs