The 2024 Wiesn Reference
Although it's still September, Oktoberfest is kicking off in Munich. And it's not just newbies who have queries: How much does the beer cost, is smoking permitted, how do you secure a table - and the big question: Is the world's largest folk festival safe?
Millions are anticipated to attend the Wiesn until October 6th, given the Oktoberfest's reputation as the world's largest folk festival. Following the suspected Islamist attacks in Solingen and Munich, the topic of security has once again gained attention.
What about security at the Wiesn?
Initially, there aren't any concrete threat alerts, according to Bavarian Interior Minister Joachim Herrmann. However, the general threat situation from Islamist terrorism remains high. The security authorities are extremely vigilant, and any leads are thoroughly investigated. For the Wiesn, a comprehensive security plan is in place: checks at the entrances, a ban on large bags, knives, and glass bottles; a high police presence, retractable bollards, and concrete flower pots as a safeguard against car attacks.
As a result of recent events, the city is tightening security further. For the first time, hand metal detectors will be used, randomly and based on suspicion. The festival director, Clemens Baumgaertner, has also announced the addition of more stewards. Innkeepers also intend to implement stricter controls, especially at the side entrances of the tents. Mayer Dieter Reiter, who will open the festival on September 21st, emphasizes that every effort will be made to protect the Wiesn visitors.
Is smoking allowed at the Wiesn?
No. Smoking has been prohibited at folk festivals and beer gardens in Bavaria by law. Although the federal Cannabis Act prohibits smoking in the immediate vicinity of minors, showmen had flagged a regulatory loophole. Wiesn innkeepers support the strict Bavarian regulation, as it provides clarity and avoids potential disputes with smoking guests.
What does the beer cost?
While the price may elicit complaints, a liter of beer now costs between 13.60 and 15.30 euros - surpassing the 15-euro mark for the first time. The Wiesn beer, brewed according to secret recipes, contains about six percent alcohol, making it more cost-effective per alcohol content unit than other beers. Despite the increased cost, the number of visitors has not been deterred; over 7.4 million liters of beer were consumed in 2023, according to Munich's statistics. Complimentary drinking water is available at fountains across the grounds. Tap water in the tents costs an average of over ten euros per liter.
What's the cost for food?
Prices are on the rise here as well. One factor contributing to the increase is the higher value-added tax on food in the catering industry, which was increased from seven to 19 percent again in January. According to co-speaker of the innkeepers' association, Christian Schottenhamel, an increase of 15 percent should be expected, with 12 percent due to the value-added tax adjustment and three percent due to general cost increases. He also criticizes the federal government, which has failed to keep its promise to maintain the seven-percent value-added tax on food.
Reserved seats are running out. Innkeepers aren't giving away all the seats. The eager and quick-footed visitors rush to their preferred tent as soon as the festival grounds open in the morning. Opportunity for latecomers: Since last year, guests who don't want to use their reservation can sell it on an exchange platform. A seat purchase includes food vouchers, plus a small fee. On the internet black market, high costs are charged - and seats may not be guaranteed. Consumer advocates advise: Caution.
What's the trendy outfit?
Dirndls and Lederhosen are the traditional attire for Oktoberfest. This year's trendy colors for Dirndls, according to Angermaier Trachten chain manager Axel Munz, include "fashionable lilac, light mint, and sage, royal blue, deep red, pine green, and elegant black." Designer Angelika Zwerenz also sees "lavender and lilac" and has created "Swiftie Dirndls" inspired by Taylor Swift's appearance. For men, Munz suggests short, handmade Lederhosen in deer and wild boar "with elaborate embroidery, often in a vintage look."
Affordable alternatives can be found at stalls along the way to the festival for those who prefer a quick change into Dirndls and Lederhosen. These outfits have little connection to traditional Trachten, which can cost thousands of dollars and are associated with specific regions. They can be seen during the Trachten parade on the Sunday following the Wiesn opening.
What's new?
Taking a Ride: What's New at Oidn Wiesn?
Adrenaline junkies will love the intense rides like the "Hupferl" from 1987 and the "Holzpfosten Scooter", reminiscent of the 1960s and 1970s autoscooters. Join the excitement of a 12D cinema, providing an immersive experience. Replacing the Herzkasperlzelt after legal disagreements, the "Boandlkramerei" music tent is now a hit. Fashion enthusiasts can switch up their traditional look with Wiesn logo-emblazoned caps, or opt for a Lederhosen leather watch strap. Ladies can accessorize with a handbag holder bearing the Wiesn insignia. For the first time, kitchen decor enthusiasts can bring a touch of Wiesn home with festival-themed dish towels.
Steilwand, Flohzirkus: What Else is Amongst Us?
Thrill-seekers will be in awe of the Steilwand riders, who master motorcycles in an arena with sheer walls. Meanwhile, the Flohzirkus showcases flea performers, engaging in football matches or operating mini carousels, even dining on their director's arm. Classic attractions include the Toboggan slide, Olympia-Looping roller coaster, the Devil's Wheel, and the Krinoline carousel, playing live music. Famous is the variety show Schichtl, enacting a "Beheading of a living person on an open, brightly lit stage using a guillotine" every day, with last year marking 15,000 such performances.
Is Corona Still a Threat?
While cases spiked in the summer, they're now on the decline. Regardless, the Wiesn remains a hotspot for virus transmission. Regular coughing occurs in the early days, often crowded doctor's offices swell in Munich and surrounding areas – signaling the onset of "Wiesn flu". The tight spaces inside tents provide optimal conditions for colds and corona viruses to thrive. Historic corona waves have impacted Munich during and following the Oktoberfest in recent years.
Can Wiesn be Experienced Virtually?
The traditional celebration now has a digital component. At the Wiesn's debut, the virtual reality game "Oktoberfest - The Official Game" is launched by the Munich studio K5 Factory, enabling users to join the festivities as avatars wearing VR glasses. The Munich inclusion initiative vr4kids offers the first virtual Wiesn tour for participants, including children with special needs, seniors, and disabled individuals, making the celebrations accessible to all.
How Eco-Friendly is Wiesn?
The festival is not known for energy efficiency. Nevertheless, the tent landlords have ambitions to become climate-neutral by 2028 or even 2026. Last year, they started tracking their CO2 emissions. Food waste has been partially measured to refine plate offerings, and organic electricity has been available for some time now, with the beer mug rinse water being used for toilets. An increasing variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes can be found at the tents.
The concept of a completely organic Wiesn has been rejected by the landlords thus far, given the higher costs for guests. Their goal now is to further champion organic options and cooperate with organic farmers for this purpose. They'll first identify where and how organic products can be integrated, as well as determining whether sufficient quantities are available; subsequently, an increase in organic options on the plates is planned. The organization's experiences with organic options have varied: "We prioritize our guests' preferences as entrepreneurs," says spokesman Peter Inselkammer.
Despite the increased security measures, visitors are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. (Following from the "What about security at the Wiesn?" sentence)
Cannabis use is strictly prohibited at the beer gardens and folklore festivals in Bavaria, including Oktoberfest. (Can be inferred from the "Is smoking allowed at the Wiesn?" sentence)
