Munich Airport Starts Oktoberfest Events Before the Tents Open
Munich Airport has started an Oktoberfest programme ahead of the city’s main festival, with temporary shops, styling services, Bavarian food and live music running across September and early October. Oktoberfest itself takes place at Theresienwiese from 19 September to 4 October 2026. Around 6.5 million people attended in 2025, confirming its place among Munich’s biggest annual events.
The airport programme includes a Trachtendealer pop-up at the Munich Airport Center until 4 October, selling dirndls, lederhosen and accessories. New Yorker has a traditional-style collection at Terminal 2 Gates G, while adidas is showing Bavarian-themed clothing in the MAC Forum. A Pantene styling area on Terminal 2 Level 04 is also offering festival hairstyles during the Oktoberfest period.
Airbräu’s airport beer garden starts its Oktoberfest events on 19 September, with house-brewed festival beer, Bavarian dishes and live music. The opening includes a ceremonial keg tapping, followed by further music events on selected dates through 4 October, all with free entry. Activities elsewhere in the airport are split between public areas and passenger-only zones, so anyone visiting without a flight should check the location first.
The main Oktoberfest remains the reason to head into Munich. The S1 and S8 trains connect the airport with the city centre in around 40 minutes, with onward public transport to Theresienwiese. Entry to the main festival grounds and beer tents is free; the separate historic Oide Wiesn costs €4 for visitors aged 15 and over. Tent reservations are not compulsory, although busy periods can limit walk-in seating.
The airport events make most sense for a long connection, an early arrival or anyone without enough time for a separate trip into Munich. Those planning the full Oktoberfest should still prioritise Theresienwiese and check transport and tent arrangements before going. Munich Airport also advises travellers returning during the festival period to allow plenty of time for their journey through the airport.