Oktoberfest 2024 Festival Tents: Best Addresses at Theresienwiese
Every year, the Oktoberfest attracts numerous international visitors to Munich and offers the best of Bavarian culture—paired with music, good food, and beer. It’s difficult to decide what to see and do during Oktoberfest 2024, so we’ve gathered everything you need to know about the must-visit beer tents.
How to Secure a Spot in a Beer Tent
If you visit the Theresienwiese, you’ll undoubtedly want to secure a space in a beer tent. However, reserving a spot at one of the coveted tables can be challenging, as reservations open months in advance, and both evenings and weekends fill up quickly. It’s important to note that security personnel will refuse visitors entry if the tent becomes overcrowded. We recommend trying the side entrances if you can’t secure a reservation, and you can use the Oktoberfest barometer to get a good overview of how and when each tent is at its busiest.
For the best chance to enjoy a cool beer and a hearty meal, try your luck during the week around lunchtime, as most tents do not accept reservations during this time. Top tip: it’s normal to ask to sit down if a few people are already at the table! As Bavarians say, “Hau di hera, samma mehra,” meaning: “Sit with us, and there will be more of us.”
At a Glance: The Most Popular Tents at Oktoberfest 2024
There are 17 festival tents at Oktoberfest, each boasting a distinct atmosphere. While true Oktoberfest aficionados may have a favorite, visitors can experience a variety of tents to fully embrace the festivity.
Large Festival Tents at Oktoberfest
Bräurosl
The Pschorr Bräurosl festival tent is one of the largest and stands 15 meters high. The tent is known for its exuberant parties, attracting locals of all ages who want to celebrate together. It’s a place where you can easily make friends or enjoy a solitary experience, yet no one leaves in a bad mood.
Schützen Festival Tent
The Schützen-Festzelt is a favorite among Munich locals, who often flaunt designer handbags and jewelry. If you enjoy celebrating in traditional costume, this is the place to be. Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of Bavaria for your social media.
Hofbräu Festival Tent
With space for 10,000 visitors, it is the second-largest tent at Theresienwiese. This tent draws many international guests who want to join the party. If you don’t have traditional attire, you’ll still fit in among the tourists who come as they are.
Kuffler’s Wine Tent
Oktoberfest isn’t just about beer; Kuffler’s wine tent offers endless selections of wine, sparkling wine, prosecco, and champagne. You can stay here until 1 AM, enjoying a relaxed atmosphere.
Schottenhamel Festival Hall
This is where the Lord Mayor of Munich traditionally opens Oktoberfest by tapping the first beer barrel with a wooden hammer. Attending here means you’ll experience a true Oktoberfest vibe along with traditional costumes.
Paulaner Festival Tent
Recognized by its 24-meter-high tower with a giant beer mug, this tent serves great beer and offers the legendary Paulaner Spezi, an alcohol-free cola and orange soda mix.
Fischer-Vroni
Combining chic and traditional, Fischer-Vroni provides a family-friendly atmosphere while offering delicious ‘Steckerlfisch’ or “fish on a stick.” This tent is also notable for its LGBTQ events, particularly on the second Monday of Oktoberfest.
Augustiner Festival Tent
If you’re a traditionalist who believes a good pub is marked by good beer, the Augustiner tent will appeal to you as it serves beer from wooden barrels in a cozy atmosphere.
Käfer Wiesn Tavern
Known for attracting a chic crowd, the Käfer has a beautiful beer garden and is a delightful place to enjoy your favorites while being surrounded by a unique festival ambiance.
Hacker Festival Tent
Considered a popular highlight at Oktoberfest, the Hacker tent features wooden beams covered with light blue fabric, creating a visually stunning atmosphere.
Smaller Festival Tents at Oktoberfest
Don’t underestimate the smaller festival tents at Oktoberfest, as they can be just as lively despite their size. They often offer unique culinary and musical highlights.
Munich Knödelei
This tent specializes in dumplings served with a variety of side dishes, accompanied by humorous activities making it a fun place to be.
Wiesn Guglhupf
Here, you can find a rotating Guglhupf, complete with coffee and schnapps offerings, ensuring you’ll have a good time.
Café Kaiserschmarrn
Known for its whimsical gingerbread castle façade, this tent offers a vibrant atmosphere and serves Kaiserschmarrn in various delicious forms.
What to Order in the Wiesn Tents
To blend in, remember to pronounce beer as “Maß” (/mæs/). Beverages are served starting at 10 AM on weekdays and at 9 AM on weekends, with the small tents remaining open until 11 PM.
Traditional Bavarian dishes, such as roast pork and chicken, are available, often at lower prices during lunchtime. Many eateries also provide vegetarian and vegan options, catering to diverse tastes. Don’t forget to tip the hardworking waitstaff who carry heavy loads throughout the day.
