Oktoberfest Kicks Off in Munich with Mayor Tapping First Beer Keg
The 191st edition of the world's largest folk festival began with traditional ceremony and strict security measures.
Munich's Oktoberfest has officially begun, with the city's mayor tapping the first beer keg to mark the start of the 191st iteration of the world-renowned festival. Mayor Dominik Krause performed the ceremonial tapping, signaling the commencement of the event.
Thousands of attendees, many in traditional Bavarian attire such as dirndls for women and lederhosen for men, filled the beer tents on Munich's Theresienwiese fairground. The atmosphere was filled with the sounds of brass music as patrons celebrated with beer, pretzels, pork roast, and sausages.
The festival is expected to draw approximately 6 million visitors over its 16-day run, concluding on October 4. While many visitors are from Munich and southern Germany, a significant number travel from other parts of the country and internationally.
This year's Oktoberfest features enhanced security measures. Following temporary closures due to overcrowding last year, AI-powered cameras have been implemented to monitor crowd density. Additional security protocols include a ban on knives and flying objects, entry checks, restrictions on large bags, and a prohibition on marijuana consumption. Law enforcement presence has been increased, with around 600 police officers on duty, supplemented by Bavarian riot police, pickpocket investigators, and international task forces from eight countries.