Oktoberfest Safety & Rules
Rules, safety tips and emergency information — so your Oktoberfest visit stays worry-free.
Emergency: 112 (Ambulance) | 110 (Police)
In an emergency, call immediately or approach the nearest security staff. The BRK first aid station is at Bavariaring and is staffed around the clock.
Official Rules & Entry Requirements
These rules apply to the entire festival grounds and are strictly enforced at the entrances:
No Backpacks Larger Than 3 Liters
Bags and backpacks must not exceed 20 x 15 x 10 cm (about 3 liters). Larger bags will be turned away at the entrance. Strollers are allowed.
No Glass Bottles or Cans
Glass bottles and cans are banned from the entire festival grounds. Even empty containers will not be allowed through.
No Weapons or Dangerous Objects
Knives, pepper spray, firearms and similar items are strictly prohibited. Even pocket knives will be confiscated.
No Selfie Sticks or Large Cameras
Selfie sticks and professional camera equipment (large lenses, tripods) are not allowed. Smartphones and small cameras are fine.
No Smoking Inside the Tents
All beer tents have a strict no-smoking policy. Smoking is only permitted in the outdoor areas.
Security Checks at All Entrances
There are security checks with bag inspections at every entrance. Expect short wait times, especially on weekends.
Alcohol — Enjoy Responsibly
The Festbier tastes smooth and harmless, but has about 6% alcohol. A single Maß equals roughly 2.5 regular beers. Here are our tips for responsible enjoyment:
Eat before and while drinking — a fatty meal slows down alcohol absorption
Drink water in between — ideally a large glass of water after every Maß
Know your limit — a Maß has 1 liter at about 6% alcohol, that is roughly 2.5 regular beers
The Festbier tastes sweeter and lighter than it actually is — do not underestimate it
Never drink on an empty stomach — ALWAYS order food alongside your beer
Take your time — finishing a Maß in 2 hours is a good pace, not in 20 minutes
Plan your journey home in advance — know which U-Bahn you will take or pre-book a taxi
Look after your friends — take care of anyone in your group who has had too much
Did You Know?
The BRK first aid station treats several thousand people every year — most of them for excessive alcohol consumption. The infamous "Kotzhügel" (vomit hill) at the edge of the grounds is a sad reality. Please drink responsibly!
Pickpocket Protection
Where millions of people celebrate, pickpockets are unfortunately also at work. Stay safe with these tips:
Bring Less
Only take the essentials: phone, some cash, one card, ID. Leave everything else at your hotel.
Use Inside Pockets
Keep your wallet and phone in inside jacket pockets or Lederhosen pockets. A cross-body bag worn under clothing is ideal.
Wear Your Bag in Front
Always keep handbags closed and worn in front of your body. Never hang them over the back of a chair or put them under the table.
Stay Alert in Crowds
Be especially careful at entrances, in packed tents and on the way home. Keep one hand on your bag at all times.
Split Your Cash
Spread your money across different pockets. If something does get stolen, you will not lose everything.
Enable Phone Tracking
Activate 'Find My Phone' or similar services before you go. If your phone is lost, you can locate it remotely.
Safe Spaces at Oktoberfest
If you need help or feel unsafe — these resources are available for you:
Safe Wiesn for Women & Girls
A dedicated help point for women and girls who feel harassed, uncomfortable or unsafe. Location: Bavariaring (service center). Services: counseling, protection, safe escort home, phone charging.
Tel: 089 / 5488 7744
First Aid Station (BRK)
Staffed around the clock during the entire festival. Location: Bavariaring, near the south entrance. Treats injuries and provides care for those feeling unwell. Free of charge.
Tel: 089 / 2373 3833
Security Points
Security staff are stationed at all entrances and at central points across the grounds. They can help with directions, conflicts and missing persons.
On-Site Police Station
The police have their own station directly on the festival grounds. Report theft, file a complaint or seek help. A lost and found office is also located here.
Tel: 089 / 2910-0
Important Phone Numbers
| Service | Number | For |
|---|---|---|
| Police Emergency | 110 | All emergencies, theft, violence |
| Ambulance / Fire Service | 112 | Medical emergencies, accidents |
| Wiesn First Aid Station (BRK) | 089 / 2373 3833 | First aid on the grounds, at Bavariaring |
| Police Station (on-site) | 089 / 2910-0 | Police station directly on the Oktoberfest grounds |
| Lost & Found (on-site) | 089 / 2910-4413 | Lost items, directly on the grounds |
| Safe Wiesn (Women's Help Point) | 089 / 5488 7744 | Counseling and help for women in distress |
Getting Home Safely
The journey home is often the overlooked part of the evening. Here are our tips:
U-Bahn (Best Option)
On weekends, U-Bahn trains run all night. On weekdays until about 2 to 3 AM. Safe, affordable and reliable.
Pre-Book a Taxi
Taxis are in extreme demand after the tents close (11:30 PM). Book via app (FreeNow, Uber) or call ahead: 089 / 21610.
Stay With Your Group
Never walk home alone, especially through quiet side streets. Wait for each other and share taxis.
Have Your Hotel Address Ready
Write down your hotel address on a piece of paper and keep it in your pocket — just in case your phone battery dies.
Designate a Buddy
Before your visit, agree on who looks after whom. A more sober friend as the 'designated survivor' is worth their weight in gold.
Do Not Drive!
After drinking, NEVER drive. Even the next morning, residual alcohol can still be above the legal limit.