Opening Day
Closing Day
Duration
Opening Hours
Special Days & Events
Oktoberfest is more than just beer tents. Throughout the 16 days, several special events and themed days add their own character to the festival.
Opening Day & Tapping Ceremony
The Lord Mayor taps the first keg at noon in the Schottenhamel tent with the famous words 'O'zapft is!' (It's tapped!). The festival officially begins.
Italian Weekend
The first weekend traditionally attracts many visitors from Italy. Expect a spirited Mediterranean atmosphere across the Wiesn.
Gay Sunday (Rosa Wiesn)
The first Sunday is celebrated as Gay Sunday. The LGBTQ+ community gathers especially at the Bräurosl tent for a welcoming and inclusive celebration.
Traditional Costume & Riflemen's Parade
One of Munich's biggest parades: around 9,000 participants in traditional costumes march through the city center to the Theresienwiese.
Family Days (Tuesdays)
Reduced prices on rides and attractions make Tuesdays a good day for families with children. Many rides offer special family discounts.
Open-Air Concert
All tent bands perform together on the steps of the Bavaria statue for a massive open-air concert. A rare chance to hear all the tent bands at once.
German Unity Day
A public holiday in Germany. Expect very large crowds as locals and visitors combine the long weekend with Oktoberfest.
Closing Day
The final day of Oktoberfest 2026. Tents are packed, emotions run high, and the festival ends with a traditional '12-gun salute' at midnight.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oktoberfest 2026 Dates
When does Oktoberfest 2026 start and end?
Oktoberfest 2026 starts on Saturday, September 19 and ends on Sunday, October 4, 2026. The festival lasts 16 days.What time does Oktoberfest open?
The beer tents open at 10:00 AM on weekdays and 9:00 AM on weekends. The festival grounds with rides and food stalls open at the same time. On Opening Day, beer is only served after the tapping ceremony around noon.When is the last beer served at Oktoberfest?
Last call for beer is at 10:30 PM every day. The tents officially close at 11:30 PM. Plan accordingly - once last call hits, no more beer is served.Which day is the least crowded at Oktoberfest?
Weekday afternoons (Monday to Thursday, before 4 PM) are typically the quietest. The first week is generally less crowded than the second. Rainy days can also be surprisingly pleasant with shorter wait times.Is Oktoberfest free to enter?
Yes, entry to the Oktoberfest grounds is completely free. You only pay for food, drinks, and rides. A Maß (1 liter of beer) costs around 15-16 euros in 2026.What happens on Opening Day?
On Opening Day (September 19, 2026), the Lord Mayor of Munich taps the first keg at noon in the Schottenhamel tent. Until the tapping is complete, no beer is served anywhere on the grounds. After the famous 'O'zapft is!' announcement, the celebration begins.When is Family Day at Oktoberfest 2026?
Family Days are on Tuesdays - September 22 and September 29, 2026. Rides and attractions offer reduced prices, making it the ideal day for families with children.