Munich's 191st Oktoberfest opens with mayor's ceremonial barrel tap

Munich's Oktoberfest officially opened on Saturday, September 19, 2026, with Mayor Dominik Krause performing the traditional barrel-tapping ceremony at noon. The 36-year-old Green Party politician required only two strikes of the mallet to tap the first keg, fulfilling his pre-event goal. He then presented the ceremonial first liter of beer to Bavarian Premier Markus Söder of the Christian Social Union, marking the first time a Green mayor has handed the drink to Söder. Cannon fire followed, signaling the start of beer service across the festival grounds.

The opening drew thousands of revelers in traditional Bavarian dirndls and lederhosen to Munich's Theresienwiese fairground. Organizers reported that some visitors arrived as early as Friday evening to secure prime seating in the beer tents, with entrance gates opening at 9 a.m. Staff controlled crowd flow by allowing entry in stages to prevent concentrated rushes. The festival features live brass music, traditional Bavarian food including pretzels, pork roast, and sausages, fairground rides, and a traditional costume parade held on September 20.

The 191st edition is expected to attract over 6 million visitors over its 16-day run through October 4. A 1-liter beer costs between €14.80 and €15.90 this year, representing a 2.38% increase from the previous year. The price has risen significantly over decades, nearly quintupling since 1985 when it cost approximately €3.20.

German authorities implemented heightened security following temporary closures due to overcrowding at last year's festival. AI-powered cameras were installed to detect large crowds early, and approximately 600 police officers are deployed around the grounds alongside Bavarian riot police, specialized pickpocket investigators, and international task forces from eight countries. Restrictions include bans on knives, drones, and marijuana smoking, entry checks, and prohibition of large bags. Opening day weather was clear with temperatures reaching 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit).