Despite terror concerns, Oktoberfest kicks off in 2024 as guests storm beer tents

The first fans eagerly positioned themselves in front of the barriers on the Theresienwiese in Munich early in the morning. At 9:00 the gates finally opened: the euphoric visitors rushed to the beer tents to get the best seats. Millions of guests are expected to attend the Oktoberfest on October 6, which is considered the largest folk festival in the world. However, after the recent suspected Islamist-motivated attacks in Solingen and Munich, the issue of security is once again in the spotlight.

How is the security at Oktoberfest?
First of all: according to Bavarian Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann, there are no concrete signs of danger. However, the abstract threat level of Islamist terrorism is high. The security authorities are extremely vigilant and every tip is followed up meticulously. There is a sophisticated security concept for the Oktoberfest: checks at the entrances, a ban on large bags, knives and glass bottles, a high police presence, retractable traffic bollards and concrete flower pots to prevent car attacks.

In response to recent actions, the city is tightening its measures. For the first time, around 40 portable metal detectors will be used randomly during inspections, festival director Clemens Baumgärtner announced. Around 600 police officers are said to be on duty. There are also several thousand stewards, of which around 1,200 to 1,500 are employed in the city alone, plus those of the innkeepers.

Can you smoke weed at Oktoberfest?
No. Bavaria has banned the smoking of weed at folk festivals and in beer gardens by law. The Federal Cannabis Act prohibits smoking weed in the immediate vicinity of minors, so in fact at festivals where children and young people are also present. Nevertheless, fairground operators had complained about a gap in the regulations. The hosts of the Oktoberfest welcome the strict Bavarian regulations. They provide clarity and prevent potential disputes with weed-smoking guests.

How much does the beer cost?
Whatever the price, there is always a subsidy. This year there was a small protest: the price of the beer exceeded the 15 euro mark. It costs between 13.60 and 15.30 euros. With the Oktoberfest beer, which is brewed according to secret recipes, you get more alcohol for your money: the alcohol content is around six percent. So far, the price has not deterred guests: according to statistics from the city of Munich, more than 7.4 million liters of beer flowed down thirsty throats in 2023. If you just want to quench your thirst, you don’t have to measure and dig deep into your pockets. Since last year, there has been free drinking water from fountains on the grounds. Table water in the tent costs an average of more than ten euros per liter.

What are the prices for the food?
Here too, it will be more expensive. One reason is the higher VAT on food in the catering industry, which has been increased again since January from seven to 19 percent – ​​the value before the corona pandemic. “An increase of 15 percent must be assumed; Twelve percent relates to the adjustment of the VAT to the pre-Corona level and three percent to general cost increases,” says co-host spokesman Christian Schottenhamel. He points to the federal government: it has broken its promise to stick to the seven percent VAT on food.

How do you get a spot in the beer tent?
The reservable places are almost gone. But the innkeepers are not giving away all the places. Those who are able-bodied rush to the tent of their choice in the morning when the festival starts. An opportunity for those who decide at short notice: guests who do not want to keep their reservation can offer it for an exchange. The landlords also want to curb the grey market. Guests have to buy consumption vouchers from them and there is a small fee. However, the grey market involves enormous costs – and in individual cases the places are not safe. Consumer advocates advise: stay away.

Which outfit is popular?
Dirndls and lederhosen are considered the ultimate Oktoberfest uniform. Trendy colors for dirndls this year: “Fashionable purple, light mint and sage, royal blue, deep red, fir green and even elegant black,” says Axel Munz, director of the Angermaier traditional costume chain. Dirndl designer Angelika Zwerenz also sees “lavender and lilac” and designed a “Swiftie dirndl” based on the appearance of pop icon Taylor Swift. For men, Munz sees short, handmade leather trousers in deer and wild goat “with elaborate embroidery, often in a vintage look.”