Prost to Oktoberfest: Celebrating Good Times in 2025!

Step right up and imagine a festival where the fun is as big as the numbers! We're talking about a party that in 2024 served over 6.5 million litres of beer, saw revelers eat a staggering 127 oxen and over 500,000 roast chickens, and used enough electricity to power a small town. This isn't just any party; it's Oktoberfest—the world’s most famous folk festival and a celebration of community, culture, and, yes, a little bit of fun-filled chaos.
After a few years of cancellations and smaller gatherings, the energy is back in full swing. This year, Oktoberfest will run from September 20 to October 5, 2025, so there's plenty of time to plan your visit or your own celebration.

 

The History of the Party

The tradition dates back to October 12, 1810, as a massive wedding bash for Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese. The people of Munich were invited to celebrate on a meadow outside the city, which was later named Theresienwiese in honor of the princess. Today, locals still call it d'Wiesn for short. The initial party was such a success that they decided to do it again the next year, and the annual tradition was born.

Over the centuries, the festival evolved from a royal wedding celebration with a horse race to the massive folk festival it is today. While the horse races are a thing of the past, the agricultural show still takes place every three years, keeping its historical roots alive. The addition of huge beer tents in 1896 transformed it into the global phenomenon we know today, attracting millions of visitors from all over the world.

 

Oktoberfest in the Modern World

In 2024, the festival drew in 7.2 million visitors, proving its enduring appeal. The main event happens in Munich, where more than a dozen massive beer tents and a score of smaller ones are set up, each with its own unique vibe and traditional music.

The celebration is about more than just numbers—it’s about the people. It’s a place where you'll find locals and tourists alike dressed in traditional Tracht (that's German for "traditional costume"). For the women, this means a dirndl (a dress with a blouse and apron), and for the men, lederhosen (leather shorts with suspenders) and a checkered shirt.

Beyond the beer tents, the Theresienwiese fairgrounds are filled with amusement rides, games, and food stalls, making it a fantastic destination for all ages.
 

Start Your Own Celebration

While Munich hosts the original party, you don't have to travel to Germany to get in on the fun. All over the world, communities and friends are hosting their own Oktoberfest celebrations. Whether it's a big festival in your city or a small get-together in your backyard, it's the perfect excuse to gather your family and friends, share some laughs, and make new memories.

So, this year, let's make it a point to embrace the spirit of Oktoberfest. Take some time to step away from the daily grind and enjoy the company of those you love. After all, the best celebrations are the ones we create ourselves.

What's your favourite way to celebrate with friends and family?