We aren’t saying that Oktoberfest isn’t awesome (because it totally is), but there are tons of other exciting festivals that make Munich the greatest city on earth.
Müncheners love to celebrate, and they take every opportunity to throw parties throughout the year. That means you’ll have a plethora of festivals to choose from, even if you come during the fall or winter! So, pack your dancing shoes (and extra ibuprofen) because we’re diving headfirst into the best festivals in Munich.
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Starkbierfest
Craving those Oktoberfest vibes but looking for something a bit more intimate? Starkbierfest (or Strong Beer Festival) takes place every spring across many breweries and pubs around Munich. This is the only time of the year where you’ll get Starkbier, a unique brew of dark, hearty, and incredibly alcoholic beer (with a minimum of 6.5%).
While you’ll find Starkbier celebrations in breweries like Augustinerkellar and Löwenbräukeller, the most famous party takes place at Nockherberg. Come dressed up in tracht (traditional lederhosen for the fellas and dirndls for the ladies), dance the night away to live music, and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of Munich’s strong beer!
Location: Around Munich including Nockherberg, Forschungsbrauerei, Augustinerkellar and Löwenbräukeller
When: Between Ash Wednesday and Easter
Frühlingsfest
Another great alternative to Oktoberfest is Frühlingsfest or Spring Festival. It takes place in the same location as its larger brother and includes many of the same beer tents, rides, and food stalls. You can also enjoy the opening day festivities, including a parade, live marching bands, and a beer keg tapping ceremony. And on Friday’s you’ll be treated to an extravagant fireworks show!
Don’t forget that as a mini Oktoberfest, guests are encouraged to dress up in traditional Bavarian clothing. If the weather’s nice (and it usually is in spring), then you’ll get to relax in one of the outdoor beer gardens while enjoying one of the best festivals in Munich!
Location: Theresienwiese
When: End of April to beginning of May
Auer Dult
This charming neighborhood festival takes place three times a year (May, July/August, and October), making it one of the best festivals in Munich for locals. It takes place in Mariahilfplatz, which is located in Au neighborhood across the river from the old city center. Auer Dult is part market (over 350 booths), part rides and games, and of course, lots of delicious beer and food!
Between the abundance of rides and shopping opportunities, Auer Dult is a great activity for adults and families. It lasts for nine days, so you’ll have plenty of chances to visit!
Location: Mariahilfplatz
When: May, July or August, and October
The Long Night of Music
From classical symphonies in an opulent theater to hidden indie shows in the back of a bookshop, Munich’s Long Night of Music is one of the city’s most unique festivals. For one night only, over 400 concerts take place across 100 different venues, opening the world of music to locals, tourists, and visitors. Seriously, there’s jazz, folk music, pop, rock, flamenco – you name it!
Best of all, every single performance is included with your ticket, as well as a bus ticket to take you between the different venues. The concerts usually start around 8pm and go late until the night ending around 3 am. Although you may not get much sleep the next day, it’s worth the yawns and bloodshot eyes just to experience this extraordinary festival!
Location: Venues around Munich
When: April or May
Tollwood
Tollwood is a cultural festival combining music, art, and sustainability. The summer edition features open-air concerts by international and local artists, art installations, and workshops focusing on environmental issues. It’s a great way to enjoy the long days and warm weather while also doing some shopping, dancing, and eating!
In the winter, Theresienwiese transforms into a magical marketplace, with international street food, handmade crafts, and cultural performances. Enjoy a warm mug of Glühwein (mulled wine) and play a round or two of Stockschießen, the German version of curling.
Location: Olympiapark (summer) and Theresienwiese (winter)
When: Summer (June/July) and Winter (December)
Streetlife Festival
Twice a year, Munich’s bustling streets are closed to traffic and transformed into a vibrant pedestrian zone for the Streetlife Festival. This eco-conscious festival is all about sustainability, featuring workshops, green innovations, and environmental exhibitions. Visitors can enjoy street food from around the world, live performances, art installations, and activities for all kids and adults alike!
Location: Leopoldstraße and Ludwigstraße
When: May and September
Munich Film Festival
Germany’s second-largest film festival after Berlinale, the Munich Film Festival is a celebration of cinema, showcasing German and international films across genres. It includes premieres, retrospectives, and panel discussions with filmmakers. The festival also has a strong focus on emerging talent, making it a great way to discover new voices in cinema. Open-air screenings in iconic locations add to the charm.
If you want to catch a flick, make sure you buy tickets online at the festival’s webshop.
Location: Around Munich
When: Late June to Early July
Kocherlball
The Kocherlball is a traditional Bavarian dance event held early in the morning, starting at 6 AM. It originated in the 19th century as a gathering for Munich’s domestic servants and has since become a cherished tradition. Participants wear traditional Bavarian Tracht and enjoy live folk music, dancing, and breakfast in the beautiful setting of the English Garden. It’s a really fun event and an insight into Bavarian culture – that is if you can get up early enough!
Location: The Chinese Tower in the English Garden
When: The third Sunday in July
Olympiapark Sommerfestival
The Olympiapark Sommerfest is a vibrant summer festival held in Munich’s iconic Olympiapark. You’ll find everything from live music and food to art installations and carnival rides. And because it’s right on the lake, it’s also a great place to relax and enjoy one of the most beautiful parks in Munich. Make sure you go on an evening when there’s live music or fireworks!
Location: Olympiapark
When: Late July to August
Hans-Sachs-Straßenfest
This lively street festival takes place in one of Munich’s trendiest neighborhoods, the Glockenbachviertel, which is also the heart of the city’s LGBTQ+ community. The festival is a celebration of diversity, featuring live music, food stalls, drag shows, and a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. It’s a small street festival, but a real favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Location: Glockenbachviertel
When: August
