“O’zapft is – to a peaceful Oktoberfest!” With these words and two taps, Munich’s Mayor Dieter Reiter tapped the first keg of Oktoberfest beer at the Schottenhamel festival tent. While he raised a toast with Bavaria’s Prime Minister Markus Söder, twelve gunshots signaled to those in the other tents: The 189th Oktoberfest is open – the beer can flow.
Reiter’s Routine – Söder Makes a Statement
Shortly before noon, Reiter and his wife entered the Schottenhamel tent accompanied by the sound of fanfares, followed by the Münchner Kindl and the Prime Minister. For Reiter, this was already the ninth Wiesn opening. This year, he needed just two hits to drive the tap into the “Hirsch,” the 200-liter beer barrel.
At the tapping of the first keg, the Bavarian Prime Minister traditionally plays a supporting role to the Mayor of Munich. However, Markus Söder took the opportunity to make a statement: for the first time, he wore short leather trousers and still had a beard. He commented on the question about the CDU and CSU’s candidacy for chancellor, saying, “If you have the choice: Berlin or the Oktoberfest – the Oktoberfest is simply better.”
New Beer Mugs This Year – More Room for Foam
While Reiter and Söder received their beer in stone mugs, Wiesn visitors drank from glass mugs as usual – but these were new. At first glance, the difference between “old” and “new” is hard to see. However, a direct comparison reveals that the calibration mark, or the one-liter mark, is slightly lower on the new mug; but it is a bit higher than the old one. The new mug provides more space for a liter of beer and a decent head of foam.
Entry of the Wiesn Innkeepers on Festive Carriages
Before the keg tapping, the Wiesn hosts entered the Oktoberfest grounds in a traditional parade. Franziska Inselkammer, a native of Munich, led the parade from a draft horse, waving to the crowd. She has a special connection to the Oktoberfest: her parents host the crossbow shooting tent. For about half an hour, magnificently decorated draft horses pulled carriage after carriage onto the Theresienwiese, accompanied by bands and marching bands. It wasn’t just the hosts of nearly 40 large and small festival tents who waved from their carriages; showmen, market traders, and representatives of the city of Munich also participated in the parade.
Tomorrow, Sunday, the traditional costume and riflemen’s parade will take place.
Paramedics Have Their Hands Full in the First Few Hours
By midday, doctors and paramedics had already tended to over 60 patients at the Wiesn medical station. They did not come in with alcohol-related issues, but rather with injuries from falls, including abrasions, an injured ankle, and a dislocated shoulder. Guests with circulatory problems and glass injuries also required treatment.
Beer and Food Prices Have Increased
Millions of beers will be served over the next 16 days of the festival. This year, a liter costs up to 15.30 euros. Food prices have also risen, partly due to the increased VAT. Water is now available for free at ten outdoor taps.
There are 17 large festival halls at the festival grounds, in addition to numerous smaller tents, stands, and booths, as well as around 150 rides and amusement attractions. Some of these are exclusive to the Oktoberfest, such as the “Crinoline,” where visitors can ride in circles to brass music. This year, the festival is celebrating its 100th anniversary.
The celebrations will continue in the heart of the city until October 6th, with around six million visitors expected this year.
“O’zapft is – to a peaceful Oktoberfest!” With these words and two taps, Munich’s mayor Dieter Reiter tapped the first keg of Oktoberfest beer in the Schottenhamel festival tent. While he toasted with Bavaria’s Prime Minister Markus Söder, twelve gunshots signaled to those waiting in the other tents: The 189th Oktoberfest is open – the beer can flow.
Reiter Has Routine – Söder Makes a Statement
Shortly before noon, Mayor Reiter and his wife entered the Schottenhamel tent accompanied by the sound of fanfares, followed by the Münchner Kindl and the Prime Minister. For Reiter, it was already the ninth Wiesn opening. This year, too, he only needed two hits to drive the tap into the “Hirsch”, the 200-litre beer barrel.
During the ceremonial tapping, the Bavarian Prime Minister traditionally plays a supporting role to the Mayor of Munich. Markus Söder seized the moment to make a noteworthy statement: for the first time, he wore short leather trousers and still had a beard. He humorously said, “If you have the choice: Berlin or the Oktoberfest – the Oktoberfest is simply better.”
This Year There Are New Beer Mugs – More Room for Foam
While Reiter and Söder received their beer in traditional stone mugs, visitors enjoyed their beer from glass mugs – but this time with a twist. The new mugs have a calibration mark that is slightly lower than the old mugs, allowing for more space for a full liter of beer and a decent head of foam.
Entry of the Wiesn Innkeepers on Festive Carriages
Before the keg tapping, the Wiesn hosts paraded into the Oktoberfest grounds on beautifully decorated carriages. Franziska Inselkammer, a local of Munich, led the procession from a draft horse, waving proudly. Her family owns the iconic crossbow shooting tent at the festival. For about half an hour, magnificently adorned draft horses pulled one carriage after another onto the Theresienwiese, accompanied by live bands and marching music. It wasn’t just the hosts of nearly 40 large and small festival tents who waved from their carriages; showmen, market traders, and representatives of the city of Munich were also part of the lively parade.
Tomorrow, on Sunday, the traditional costume and riflemen’s parade will take place, showcasing Bavarian culture and heritage.
Paramedics Have Work to Do in the First Few Hours
By midday on the opening day, medical staff had already attended to over 60 patients at the Wiesn medical station. Interestingly, most of these cases were not alcohol-related but rather injuries from spills and falls, including abrasions, a sprained ankle, and even a dislocated shoulder. Guests with circulatory issues and glass-related injuries also sought treatment, emphasizing the importance of safety during the festival.
Beer and Food Have Become More Expensive
As the festival unfolds over the next 16 days, millions of liters of Bavarian beer will be served. This year, a liter of beer will cost festival-goers as much as €15.30. Food prices have also increased, influenced in part by rising VAT rates. In a positive turn, free water is available at ten outdoor taps, ensuring guests stay hydrated.
Celebrating Bavarian Culture at Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest is not just about beer; it is a celebration of Bavarian culture rich in food, music, and laughter. Here are some highlights of what visitors can expect:
- Large Festival Halls: There are 17 large tents hosting a variety of events, along with numerous smaller tents, food stands, and booths.
- Amusement Parks: Around 150 rides and attractions await thrill-seekers. Some unique rides, like the “Crinoline,” offer experiences that can only be found at Oktoberfest.
- Special Celebrations: This year marks the festival’s 100th anniversary, adding a sense of nostalgia and celebration to the activities.
Visitor Experience and Practical Tips
Maximizing Your Oktoberfest Experience
- Arrive Early: To avoid long lines and secure a prime location, it’s best to arrive early, especially on weekends.
- Public Transport: Use Munich’s efficient public transport system to get to the festival grounds; parking can be challenging.
- Cash Only: Many vendors only accept cash, so ensure you have enough euro bills on hand.
- Enjoy the Food: Do not miss out on traditional dishes such as pretzels, sausages, and roast chicken – they are a vital part of the Oktoberfest experience.
Oktoberfest in Numbers: 2023 Statistics
| Statistic | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Visitors | Approximately 6 million expected |
| Festival Days | 16 days of festivities |
| Beer Price | Up to €15.30 per liter |
| Number of Tents | 17 large festival halls |
| Rides | Around 150 attractions |
Exploring Oktoberfest’s Historical Significance
Oktoberfest began in 1810 as a royal wedding celebration and has transformed into the world’s largest carnival, attracting millions annually. With each passing year, the festival continues to evolve while keeping alive the traditions and customs that reflect Bavarian history.
Experience Oktoberfest like a Local
For those looking to immerse themselves fully in the festival’s spirit, participating in local traditions such as dressing in traditional Bavarian attire — dirndls and lederhosen — can enhance your experience. Joining in on folk dances, singing along with live music, and tasting regional delicacies adds depth to your visit.
