Oktoberfest 2025: High Alert but No Direct Danger to Visitors

Ahead of the start of Munich’s Oktoberfest, the police have identified a “potential high risk.” However, there is no indication of any specific threat to visitors attending the world’s largest folk festival, which begins this Saturday, the Munich Police Department said on Wednesday. Around 600 officers will be deployed during the two-week event.

‍

‍

The existing ban on knives within the festival grounds at Theresienwiese has now been extended to the surrounding area. Carrying any type of knife is prohibited. Anyone found in possession of a knife will commit an administrative offense under weapons law and face a fine. The ban on cannabis will also remain in effect, with penalties ranging from €500 to €1,500 for violators.

‍

For the first time, the Federal Police will deploy a “multisensor vehicle” at Oktoberfest. Equipped with thermal imaging and laser technology, it can process live video footage to detect potential hazards. The system is intended to quickly identify incidents such as people crossing railway tracks, helping to minimize train disruptions during the festival. In previous years, drunk visitors occasionally halted train traffic by entering the tracks. Last year, a visitor climbed onto the tracks to urinate, forcing an S-Bahn to make an emergency stop.

‍

Oktoberfest begins on Saturday and lasts until October 5th. It is the world's largest folk festival, attracting more than six million visitors annually. In addition to numerous carousels and rides, the 14 large and 21 small festival tents particularly attract tourists and locals. These tents, supplied by Munich breweries, ensure significant beer sales every year. Last year, seven million liters of beer were served at the Wiesn.

‍

‍

10 Golden Rules for a Safe Oktoberfest Experience

1. Leave large bags at home: Backpacks and oversized bags slow down movement and can create safety hazards on crowded festival grounds. Bring only what you truly need to enjoy the festivities.
2. Small bags only: Any bag brought must be no larger than 20x15x10 cm and hold a maximum of 3 liters. This ensures security checks are faster and smoother.
3. Prohibited items: Knives, gas sprays, cannabis, corrosive substances, and glass bottles are strictly forbidden to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of all visitors.
4. Pushchair restrictions: Pushchairs are not allowed all day on Saturdays and public holidays, and at other times they may be subject to security checks to avoid crowd congestion.
5. No personal transport devices: Bicycles, scooters, skateboards, and similar items are prohibited inside the festival area to keep pathways clear and reduce accidents.
6. Animals not allowed: Only assistance dogs are permitted, as other animals can pose risks in crowded and lively environments.
7. Use all festival entrances: Accessing the Wiesn through multiple gates helps spread crowds evenly and ensures everyone enters safely and efficiently.
8. Plan your journey: Avoid congested U-Bahn stops and consider alternative routes or walking from nearby stations to reach the festival without delays.
9. Avoid peak crowds: Check real-time crowd updates, like the Oktoberfest barometer, to enjoy rides, tents, and attractions more comfortably.
10. Respect closing hours: The festival grounds close from 1:30 am to 9 am daily. Staying beyond these hours is prohibited to maintain safety and order.

‍