Oktoberfest 2026: the beer festival returns to Munich

This year too, the Oktoberfest transforms the center of Munich into a place of celebration, celebrating a tradition born over two centuries ago. The event runs from today - 19 September - to 4 October, for two weeks of stands with beer, gastronomic specialties, music and attractions.

Today, September 19th, first of all the traditional parade of Oktoberfest innkeepers and brewers took place in the morning (in the photo).

The beer began to be served from 12pm, after the traditional ritual of opening the first barrel (pictured). At that point, with the mayor's approval, the drinking began.

Many participants queued before the gates opened on the first day of the event. Many people dressed in traditional clothing for the occasion. In the photo, the rush to open the gates.

The tents are open daily from 9am to 11pm, with beer and food available until 10.30pm.

According to information circulated before the event, this year a liter of beer (Maß) could cost up to 15.90 euros.

In the photo, the queue at the entrance to the Oktoberfest on the morning of September 19th.

Around 600 police officers are involved in the Oktoberfest area, with a security device that also includes 56 police cameras, of which 26 are equipped with Ai systems to identify critical situations and large gatherings.

In the last edition, that of 2025, the Oktoberfest hosted 6.5 million visitors, of which approximately 21% came from abroad. And this year too, millions of participants are expected.

In the photo, the participants on the first day of the 2026 Oktoberfest.

Some visitors on a carousel at the Theresienwiese, historical site of the Oktoberfest.

A view from above of the Theresienwiese.

On the last day, Sunday 4 October, the festival will draw towards its conclusion with the traditional salute to the statue of Bavaria. The official closing of the Oktoberfest is scheduled for 11.30pm.