Oktoberfest 2026 calendar: dates, parades and family days
The festival runs 19 September to 4 October. Mark the parade weekends, two family Tuesdays, the Bavaria concert and the closing salute before choosing a day.
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The main calendar
Opening weekend and the official festival events
Saturday 19 September starts with the parade of breweries and landlords, followed by the mayor’s noon tapping at Schottenhamel. On Sunday 20 September, the traditional costume and marksmen’s parade moves through the city to the Theresienwiese. The ecumenical service is listed for 24 September.
On Sunday 27 September, the festival bands play together at the foot of the Bavaria statue from 11 a.m. The traditional marksmen’s salute closes the festival on Sunday 4 October. Check the official calendar for viewing locations and any changes before setting out.
Family Tuesdays and crowd context
Discounts and events can change the feel of a day
The 2026 family days are Tuesday 22 and Tuesday 29 September. Many rides, showmen and snack stands offer reduced prices until 7 p.m.; offers vary by business. The official visitor barometer marks the middle Saturday, 26 September, very busy from the afternoon onward.
This is an event calendar, not a live entry forecast. The main grounds are open across the festival, but tents can close when full. Compare the day you want with the current barometer and opening-hours guide.
Useful before you go
Common questions, straight answers.
When is Oktoberfest 2026?
It runs from Saturday 19 September to Sunday 4 October 2026 in Munich.
When is the costume parade?
The traditional costume and marksmen’s parade takes place on Sunday 20 September 2026, the first Sunday of the festival.
What are the Oktoberfest family days in 2026?
They are Tuesday 22 September and Tuesday 29 September. Many rides and food stands have reduced prices until 7 p.m.
No mystery meat facts
Sources and edition notes
Changeable details such as dates, prices, rules and opening times are checked against the linked sources. Recheck them before your visit.