Oktoberfest Munich 2023: Travel Guide, Program and Schedule
Oktoberfest 2023 is just around the corner, and the excitement is building! This world-famous festival, which traces its roots back to 1810, promises to be an unforgettable experience for locals and tourists alike. As you plan your visit to Munich’s Theresienwiese, we’ll guide you through the main events and attractions that make this annual celebration so special. Check out below the Best of Oktoberfest Events in Munich.
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Full Lineup of Best Events to Attened in Munich this Oktoberfest 2023
1) Oktoberfest Opening Day 2023
Kickstart your Oktoberfest adventure on Saturday, September 16th. The festival officially begins at 9 a.m., with the tents opening their doors to eager visitors.
Picture this: colorful tents, the aroma of Bavarian cuisine in the air, and an atmosphere charged with anticipation. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
But before you can enjoy that first crisp sip of beer, there’s one essential moment — the opening day parade. Starting at Josephspitalstraße and winding its way to Theresienwiese, this parade is a grand spectacle.
When: Saturday, September 16th, starting at 9 a.m.
Where: Theresienwiese, Munich
More Info: https://allevents.in/munich/oktoberfest-opening-day-2023/80001473225538
2) Traditional Costume Parade of Wiesn 2023
The parade of the landlords marks the official start of Oktoberfest. It takes place on the first Saturday of the Wiesn before the famous “O’zapft is!”. This is followed by the traditional costume and hunters’ parade at 10 a.m. on Sunday, September 17, 2023.
Starting at 10 a.m. and led by the Münchner Kindl, The Traditional Costume Parade showcases the rich Bavarian heritage. From marching bands to flag bearers and stunning horse carriages, you’ll witness the heart and soul of Bavarian culture on display.
When: Sunday, September 17th, starting at 10 a.m.
Where: Max II monument on Maximilianstraße to Theresienwiese
More Info: https://allevents.in/munich/traditional-costume-parade-of-wiesn-2023/80002746502030
3) Munich Gay Sunday Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest has something for everyone, including its annual Gay Sunday festivities. On Sunday, September 17th, the Pschorr-Bräurosl tent transforms into a lively hub of entertainment. Join the crowd of 8,400 revelers for a unique experience, complete with yodelers and whip-snappers. It’s a testament to Oktoberfest’s inclusive spirit, showcasing that there’s a place for everyone under the festival’s iconic tents.
When: All day and night on Sunday, September 17th.
Where: Pschorr-Bräurosl tent, Theresienwiese, Munich
More Info: https://allevents.in/munich/munich-gay-sunday-oktoberfest/2200025318113120
4) Family Day (First) Oktoberfest 2023
If you’re visiting Oktoberfest with your family Tuesday, September 19th is the perfect day to do so. The first of two Family Days offers discounted rides and performances throughout the day. Share the joy of the festival with your kids and create lasting memories as you explore the fairground together. It’s a family-friendly event that ensures Oktoberfest is an experience for all ages.
When: Tuesday, September 19th, all day until 7 p.m.
Where: Theresienwiese, Munich
More Info: https://allevents.in/munich/family-day-first-oktoberfest-2023/80002770689752
5) Traditional Oktoberfest Church Service
On Thursday, September 21st, Oktoberfest takes a moment for reflection. The Marstall Tent hosts a traditional church service primarily intended for Wiesn employees but open to everyone. It’s a beautiful opportunity to experience the spiritual side of this grand celebration set against the backdrop of festivity and joy.
When: Thursday, September 21st, starting at 10 a.m.
Where: Marstall Tent, Theresienwiese, Munich
More Info: https://allevents.in/munich/traditional-oktoberfest-church-service/80001894281058
6) Munich Italian Weekend
Italians love the Munich Oktoberfest — or the “Festa d’ottobre” as they call it. Traditionally the second weekend of the Wiesn has become established as the “Italian weekend”. Italians arrive from all over Italy and often travel the length of the country to experience the thrill of the Wiesn. Many travel in camper vans so don’t be surprised if you see Italian campers parked all over the city on Italian weekend.
When: Fri Sep 22 2023 at 12:00 am to 01:00 am (GMT+02:00)
Where: Löwenbräu tent, Theresienwiese, Munich
More Info: https://allevents.in/munich/munich-italian-weekend/80002858401158
7) Oktoberfest Annual Outdoor Concert
Finally again! On the second Sunday of the Oktoberfest at 11 a.m. sharp, the bands of the large Oktoberfest tents opened the traditional musical highlight of the Oktoberfest at the foot of the Bavaria statue.
Numerous spectators and probably also Petrus were there in better weather than announced to enjoy Bavarian joie de vivre with the around 300 musicians. Peter Inselkammer, host of the Armbrustschützenzelt and spokesman for the Oktoberfest hosts, also thanked the visitors: “Thank you for remaining loyal to us this year after the hardships and bringing back the Oktoberfest.
When: Sunday, September 24th, starting at 11 a.m.
Where: In front of the Bavaria statue, Theresienwiese, Munich
More Info: https://allevents.in/munich/oktoberfest-annual-outdoor-concert/80002236803093
8) Family Day (Second) Oktoberfest 2023
For those who couldn’t make it on the first Family Day, don’t worry; Tuesday, September 26th, is your second chance. The last of the two Family Days offers discounted rides and attractions. Bring your kids and let them enjoy the thrilling rides and delicious treats as you savor the festival atmosphere.
When: Tuesday, September 26th, all day until 7 p.m.
Where: Theresienwiese, Munich
More Info: https://allevents.in/munich/family-day-second-oktoberfest-2023/80002731701702
9) German Unity Day and Closing
The festivities extend this year due to German Unity Day on Tuesday, October 3rd. This bonus day is a special treat for Oktoberfest enthusiasts. At noon, a traditional gun salute marks the end of Oktoberfest, known as a Boellerschiessen. It’s an event that adds a touch of history to the festival’s conclusion. Later, at 11:30 p.m., the unofficial closing ceremony takes place in the Hacker-Pschorr tent. As the lights go down, sparklers light up the night, creating a magical ambiance. It’s a moment to join hands and bid farewell to another remarkable year at Oktoberfest, eagerly anticipating Oktoberfest 2024.
When: Tuesday, October 3rd, with various activities.
Where: Theresienwiese, Munich
More Info: https://allevents.in/munich/german-unity-day-and-closing/80002865735146
