Oktoberfest returns after two years without restrictions: dates

Beer fans around the world can rejoice: Oktoberfest will finally be able to come alive again in Munich. After two years spent grappling with the Covid emergency, one of the world's most famous festivals is preparing to reopen its doors in Germany for its 187th edition. An event that puts up incredible numbers every year. Generally Munich sees more than 6 million visitors travel to the Theresienwiese fairgrounds. About 80 thousand hectoliters of beer are consumed during Oktoberfest days, with 13 thousand employees engaged. Two weeks of festivities and more, with an induced income of more than 1 billion euros, which came dramatically short in 2020 and 2021.

Oktoberfest returns to Germany

The accommodation sector in Bavaria is breathing again. A third cancellation would have been incredibly detrimental. Huge is the significance of Oktoberfest, as the CEO of the Bayerische Brauerbund tries to explain, Lothar Ebbertz: "It is not possible to measure the importance of Munich's Oktoberfest in hectoliters. The festival goes far beyond just the amount of beer that is sold. The breweries invite customers from all over the world to experience the Bavarian way of life, creating memories meant to stay inside because of the love for our beer culture."

Oktoberfest dates and restrictions

There is still some time to go before the start of Oktoberfest 2022, which will Will begin on September 17 and end on October 3. The history of the festival is centuries old. The first time it was organized was in 1810. Since then there have been only 26 cancellations, mainly during times of war. Such a choice was feared again this year, considering the war in Ukraine. After the two-year pandemic, however, it would have been too much.

Therefore, the festival will return in attendance and without restrictions. A condition that greatly worries the mayor of Munich, who explained how it will take place with the same anxiety as in 2021, when it was then decided to cancel the event again. It is worth pointing out how this year's Oktoberfest will take place in spite of his contrary opinion.

He tried to appeal to state and federal authorities, only to admit how impossible it was to impose even minimum requirements to take part in the festival, such as submitting a negative Covid test: "I just hope that the epidemiological situation doesn't worsen in the fall to the point where we have to cancel the event at the last minute."

He also stressed that he was not in favor of the event if the war in Ukraine did not end, "I cannot imagine serenely enjoying that atmosphere," he said, "Everyone will have to decide for themselves whether they will be in the mood to celebrate.

To date, no restrictions are planned. However, the possibility of a change of course cannot be ruled out. Should the infection situation worsen in Germany, restrictions could be imposed, such as possession of a negative swab taken 24 or 48 hours before entry.

As per tradition, the tapping will take place on September 17 at 12 noon in the Schottenhamel tent. Just before that, however, at 10:45 a.m., there will be the ceremonial entrance of the Wiesn hosts, amid period costumes and decorated floats.