Oktoberfest isn’t just the largest beer festival in the world – it’s Munich’s “fifth season,” a celebration that gives Munich a special atmosphere like no other time of year. While beer undoubtedly plays a starring role, there’s so much more to discover beyond the beer tents.
In this second part of our ultimate guide to Oktoberfest, we’ll dive into the non-beer highlights, from thrilling rides and parades to delicious Bavarian food. Whether you’re not a beer drinker or simply want to explore more of what the festival has to offer, there’s plenty to enjoy. For tips on enjoying the beer tents, check out part one here.
What is Oktoberfest?
Oktoberfest first began in October 1810 as a horse race, celebrating the marriage of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen. The festivities took place on a large field outside the city gates, which was later named Theresienwiese in honor of the bride. The locals had so much fun that it became an annual tradition!
In the early years, Oktoberfest was a more agricultural event, with horse races and simple amusements. But by the late 19th century, the festival started to look more like what we know today, with the addition of booths, carousels, food stands, and eventually, beer tents.
Now, the festival grounds are divided into three main areas: the beer tents, the funfair, and the Old Wiesn, which recreates the historical Oktoberfest
All the fun of the funfair
Oktoberfest isn’t just about beer—it’s also packed with fun and excitement at the funfair. The festival’s funfair area offers amusement park rides and carnival booths for all ages.
The iconic Ferris Wheel (Riesenrad) gives you stunning panoramic views of the festival grounds and the Munich skyline. If you’re craving an adrenaline rush, the Olympia Looping, the world’s largest portable roller coaster with five loops, is a must-try. For a more traditional experience, the Krinoline is a vintage carousel that has been spinning at Oktoberfest for over a century, accompanied by a live brass band.
One unique ride that locals love is the Teufelsrad (Devil’s Wheel), where you try to stay seated on a spinning disk while others attempt to knock you off. This quirky and hilarious attraction has been a part of the festival for generations and is always good for a laugh!
Opening Weekend Parades
We usually skip the beer tents on the opening weekend since they’re too crowded, but we always head to Oktoberfest to catch the parades—they’re not to be missed!
The festivities start on the first Saturday with the Oktoberfest Entry Procession (Einzug der Wiesnwirte). This colourful parade marks the official start of the festival, with beer tent owners and breweries parading to the Theresienwiese in horse-drawn carriages, adorned with flowers and Bavarian decorations. Accompanied by marching bands and flag bearers, the procession creates a lively atmosphere, building excitement as the city prepares for the Mayor of Munich to tap the first keg at noon.
On the first Sunday, the Costume and Riflemen’s Parade (Trachten- und Schützenzug) takes center stage. This seven-kilometer-long parade features around 9,000 participants dressed in traditional costumes from across Europe, with brass bands, riflemen, and intricately decorated floats adding to the spectacle.
Both parades are free to watch along the route, although tickets can be bought for stands with seating.
Oktoberfest Landlord’s Concert
One of the more unique and lesser-known traditions at Oktoberfest is the Oktoberfest Landlord’s Concert (Das Platzkonzert der Wiesnwirte). Held on the second Sunday of the festival at 11 a.m., this concert brings together all the Oktoberfest bands to perform in unison at the foot of the Bavaria Statue, creating an unforgettable sound that echoes across the festival grounds. This free and unique event offers a perfect opportunity to experience the festive atmosphere of Oktoberfest without the focus on beer!
Climb to the top of the Bavaria Statue
For one of the best views of Oktoberfest and a piece of Bavarian history, be sure to climb to the top of the Bavaria Statue. This iconic 18-meter-tall bronze figure, representing the state of Bavaria, has proudly stood overlooking the festival grounds since 1850. It was a technical marvel at the time, as Bavaria was the first colossal bronze statue of its kind since antiquity.
Inside, a narrow spiral staircase of 126 steps leads to the head of the statue, where a small viewing platform offers panoramic views of the bustling Oktoberfest below. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity and a great way to escape the crowds for a moment.
The statue is open to visitors from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a small admission fee. If you visit during Oktoberfest, don’t miss the chance to take in the spectacular view from this iconic monument!
Try traditional Bavarian Food
You don’t need to enter a beer tent to enjoy the delicious food at Oktoberfest—there are food stalls scattered all around the festival grounds, offering a wide range of Bavarian treats, from savory to sweet.
For something savory, you can’t go wrong with Hendl (roast chicken), a festival favorite for almost 150 years. Another popular option is one of the many types of grilled sausages, typically served in a bread bun with ketchup or mustard, or on a bed of sauerkraut for a more traditional touch. Leberkäse, a Bavarian-style meatloaf made of beef, pork and bacon, is another favorite. It’s often served with mustard in a bread bun, making for an easy-to-eat snack while you wander the festival grounds. And, of course, no visit is complete without trying a giant Brezn (pretzel). In our opinion, the best brezn are from Munich – soft and chewy on the inside with a perfectly crispy crust.
If you’re after something sweet, make sure to grab a bag of gebrannte Mandeln—roasted almonds coated in caramelized sugar. Be warned, though, these delicious almonds can be a bit addictive! Another sweet option is Kaiserschmarrn, a fluffy shredded pancake served with fruit compote. The classic place to order Kaiserschmarrn is Café Kaiserschmarrn, a tent belonging to the local bakery Rischart. The tent looks like an iced gingerbread castle, so you really can’t miss it. And don’t forget to pick up a Lebkuchenherz (gingerbread heart) as a sweet souvenir!
Shopping for Souvenirs
No Oktoberfest visit is complete without taking home a little piece of the festival. Whether you’re after something traditional or just fun, there are plenty of stalls throughout the festival grounds offering unique souvenirs.
One of the most iconic souvenirs is the Lebkuchenherz—decorative gingerbread hearts, often worn around the neck. These gingerbread hearts come in all sizes, decorated with colourful icing and sweet, sometimes cheeky, messages.
Another classic Wiesn accessory to look for is the Glupperl, a wooden clothes pin often engraved with your name or a fun message. These are typically worn attached to your Dirndl or Lederhosen and are a quirky, affordable memento of the festival.
For a more special keepsake, consider picking up a beer mug featuring the official Oktoberfest design. Every year since 1952, a design competition has been held to choose the official Oktoberfest poster. The winning design is not only displayed as a poster, but is also printed on beer mugs and other souvenirs. You can buy the official poster as a lasting reminder of your trip. To see all the Oktoberfest designs from 1952 to today, visit the official Munich website here.
Conclusion
Oktoberfest offers much more than beer tents – it’s a celebration of Bavarian culture, full of exciting parades, funfair rides, and delicious food. From exploring the festival grounds to climbing the Bavaria Statue, there’s something for everyone.
While you’re in Munich, why not stay active and explore the city with one of our guided running tours? Whether you’re an early riser looking to run before the festival or want to explore Munich’s quieter corners, we have a tour for you.
