Oktoberfest 2025 starts with record beer prices

In 2025, the 190th Oktoberfest will take place from September 20 to October 5 on Munich's Theresienwiese . Preparations have been underway since the end of June, and now, just a few days before the legendary "O'zapft is!" —the Munich mayor tapping the first keg with this chant—the "Wiesn," also considered the largest folk festival in the world, is about to begin.

Between six and seven million visitors are expected over the next two and a half weeks. The majority will come from Germany, primarily Bavaria. Most international guests will be from the USA, Italy, the United Kingdom, Austria, Poland, France, Switzerland, Spain, the Netherlands, and, for the first time in 2024, from India.

Record: A liter of beer for 15 euros

Probably the most important question every year is: How much does beer cost? In contrast to last year, when a Maß (liter of beer in a mug) was approaching the €15 mark, prices are now mostly above €15. The most expensive beer can be found in the "Münchner Stubn" (Munich Stubn)—for €15.80. Only a few establishments offer a liter mug for less than €15.

Although the Bavarian capital of Munich is the organizer of the Oktoberfest, drink prices are negotiated among the city's restaurateurs. To prevent prices from slipping into the realm of fantasy, the city keeps a close eye on price developments. No matter how expensive the beer is, around 7 million liters are consumed each year.

Collectors repeatedly attempt to smuggle empty beer steins off the grounds. Most are thwarted by security personnel: In 2024, 98,000 beer steins were rescued at the exits; in previous years, the number was far higher.

Festival tents with a program for everyone

There are 14 large and 21 small tents at Oktoberfest. For the "Oide Wiesn" event, there are three additional tents to choose from. The large tents can accommodate an average of 6,000 people, while the smaller tents can accommodate up to 3,000 people.

The Oide Wiesn is a separate area on the Theresienwiese where the atmosphere is traditional. Classical brass bands play in the three festival tents, and the rides are just as classic—everything is a bit more tranquil here. To preserve the character of this small part of the Wiesn, admission is four euros.

There's no admission charge for Oktoberfest itself; you can simply show up at Theresienwiese, preferably in a dirndl or lederhosen, and dive right in. As for the large festival tents, you can go inside, but only if they're not overcrowded.

You should reserve a table in advance. Those interested can book on the festival tents' websites . The program in the tents varies – from traditional Bavarian fare to a big pop music party. Most tents have regular live bands playing everything from the latest Oktoberfest hits to rock classics.

How much is eaten?

The gastronomy at Oktoberfest follows the social trend toward organic food and regional products. Vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as sweet potato or African bean stew, organic chickpeas, or jackfruit goulash, are increasingly appearing on menus. However, the classic hearty meat dishes remain the favorites. In 2024, 125 oxen and 70,000 pork knuckles were consumed. The absolute favorite is the "Hendl" (roast chicken), a roasted chicken that is eaten around 500,000 times each year.

What can be found at the sites?

Between 3,500 and 4,500 lost and found items are collected annually. These are mostly wallets, cell phones, jackets, keys, and eyeglasses. Bags, backpacks, and umbrellas are also frequently forgotten – but curious items are also handed in at the Lost and Found sites: In 2024, 16 pairs of lederhosen, a pair of light-alloy handcuffs, a dental night guard, and several pairs of women's shoes were found. Hearing aids and dentures also appear regularly, and an eight-centimeter live leaf grasshopper, a dog, and a Viking helmet are also said to have turned up at the Lost and Found office in recent years.

Functional security concept

Safety is the top priority at such large events, and so Oktoberfest works every year on an improved security concept . This is also appreciated by the public. Everyone, whether firefighters, police, paramedics, or security personnel, praises the visitors' composure. The checks at the entrances are accepted without issue. Many express their gratitude because they feel safe at the Oktoberfest.

According to the Munich police, crimes fell by 25 percent in 2024, and cases of binge drinking among young people also decreased. This is attributed to the effective prevention work on and around the Oktoberfest.

The ambulance reported a quiet year in 2024 and recorded a 29 percent decrease in calls.

Climate neutral by 2028

As early as 2024, Oktoberfest committed itself to greater environmental and climate protection, as well as sustainability. For example, since 2023, the Wiesn has been powered by 100 percent green electricity. In addition, the rinse water from beer mug dishwashers is reused in toilets at many locations. The recycling system is becoming increasingly sophisticated, disposable plastic tableware is being minimized, and regional organic products are being given priority. The city has introduced an eco-point system for stall operators and is working toward the goal of becoming a climate-neutral event by 2028 .