Munich Welcomes Millions for the Official Inauguration of Oktoberfest

Beer is being liberally poured as an influx of millions of visitors converges on Munich to mark the formal commencement of Oktoberfest.

The Mayor of Munich, Dieter Reiter, initiated the 18-day long celebration on Saturday by inserting a tap into the inaugural keg at precisely noon, echoing the customary proclamation of “O’zapft is,” which translates to “It’s tapped.”

Attendees adorned in classic Bavarian attire such as lederhosen and dirndl dresses began arriving at Munich’s festival venue early Saturday morning. They occupied the numerous traditional tents, eagerly awaiting their initial one-liter (equivalent to 2 pints) serving of beer.

Just moments prior to the tapping of the first keg, Bavarian Governor Markus Soeder engaged the assembled crowd, inquiring if they were prepared for the festivities of Oktoberfest to kick off. “There is but one statement to make: This stands as the grandest, most significant, and unparalleled festival globally,” he declared.

Historically, Oktoberfest has attracted approximately 6 million guests annually. The gathering had been suspended in both 2020 and 2021 due to ongoing public health concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic but resumed with vigor in 2022.

The cost of a one-liter mug of beer for this year’s event ranges from 12.60 to 14.90 euros ($13.45 to $15.90), reflecting a roughly 6% increase compared to the previous year.

Marking its 188th iteration, this year’s Oktoberfest celebration will continue until October 3.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Oktoberfest

More about Oktoberfest

• Official Oktoberfest Website
• Munich Tourism Board’s Oktoberfest Page
• Historical Overview of Oktoberfest
• Bavarian Culture and Traditions
• COVID-19 Guidelines for Public Events in Munich
• Currency Conversion Rates
• Brief on Bavarian Governor Markus Soeder