Oktoberfest 2026 in Munich officially begins on Saturday, September 19, at noon with the traditional tapping of the first beer keg by the city’s mayor. This ceremonial tap, marked by the Bavarian phrase “O’zapft is,” signals the official start of the festival, followed by 12 gunshots informing all tents to start serving beer. The event, which runs until October 4, is expected to draw more than 6 million attendees to the festival grounds on Theresienwiese, a site spanning approximately 34.5 hectares.
Authorities have introduced enhanced security measures to manage crowd density and safety amid record visitor numbers. These efforts reflect lessons from the previous year’s overcrowding issues, including temporary entrance closures and movement standstills on busy weekends.
Expanded Security and Crowd Monitoring
The city has upgraded its security plan by installing 26 new surveillance cameras alongside existing police cameras and implementing an AI-driven system to monitor visitor flow and detect areas at risk of overcrowding. A newly formed coordination center will ensure better communication between law enforcement and event organizers. Additionally, 600 police officers will be stationed throughout the festival. Organizers have also prepared defense measures against unauthorized drones, though specific details remain confidential.
Visitor Demographics and International Attendance
While Oktoberfest holds worldwide recognition, most attendees come from the local region. In 2025, 41% of visitors were from Munich, 25% from surrounding areas, and 9% from elsewhere in Bavaria, comprising about three-quarters of the total 6.5 million visitors. Visitors from other parts of Germany made up 4%, and approximately 21% traveled from abroad. The largest international visitor groups were Americans, representing nearly 20% of foreign attendees, followed by Italians at just over 13%.
Prices and Festival Offerings
Beer prices have risen modestly this year. A traditional 1-liter beer mug, known as a Mass, costs between €14.80 and €15.90 ($17 to $18.25). Table water is notably expensive at €11 per liter, but several free drinking fountains are available across the festival grounds. Admission to rides ranges from just under €5 to €14. Cannabis remains strictly prohibited on site.
Dress Code and Traditions
Visitors often embrace Bavarian culture through attire. Women typically wear dirndls—a fitted bodice, blouse, high-waisted skirt, and apron—while men wear lederhosen, traditional leather shorts or knee-length pants with suspenders. Although non-locals may choose to rent or purchase traditional clothing, organizers caution against inexpensive, inauthentic garments to avoid unwanted attention. Casual dress such as jeans and a checkered shirt is widely accepted.
