‘O’zapft is!’ Oktoberfest 2025 opens in Munich with traditional keg tapping
Oktoberfest 2025 officially opened Saturday in Munich as Mayor Dieter Reiter tapped the first keg of beer at exactly noon inside the historic Schottenhamel tent, proclaiming “O’zapft is!” — “It’s tapped!” That proclamation was followed by a traditional toast: “To a peaceful Oktoberfest.”
The ceremonial keg tapping marks the beginning of the 190th edition of the world’s largest beer festival, a celebration that now spans more than two centuries of Bavarian tradition.
Thousands of festival-goers packed into Munich’s Theresienwiese fairgrounds to witness the opening, raising their steins as brass bands played and the first pints of golden lager were poured. The sound of clinking glasses and festive cheers echoed throughout the massive tents, as visitors from around the world gathered for the 16-day event.
A tradition born in royalty
Oktoberfest dates back to October 1810, when Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen. The citizens of Munich were invited to join in the festivities, which included a horse race held in a meadow later named Theresienwiese, or “Theresa’s Meadow,” in the bride’s honor.
What began as a one-time celebration has since evolved into an annual event drawing more than 6 million visitors from across the globe.
The numbers behind the festivities
This year’s Oktoberfest covers an impressive 85 acres of fairground space. A total of 893 service providers applied to take part in the festival, with 468 selected. Among them are 36 from the catering sector, 238 funfair and amusement ride operators, and 170 market vendors.
A global stage for Bavarian culture
While Oktoberfest is first and foremost a celebration of beer, it’s also a vibrant showcase of Bavarian culture, food and community. Attendees don traditional attire –– Lederhosen for men and Dirndls for women. They enjoy hearty fare such as pretzels, roast chicken, pork knuckles and sausages, all served in massive beer tents that can hold thousands of revelers.
Music plays a central role throughout the festival, with brass bands and folk ensembles performing daily. Parades, including the traditional Costume and Riflemen’s Parade, draw tens of thousands of spectators and participants from around the world.
Local police and festival organizers have increased security and medical services for this year’s celebration, aiming to ensure that the event remains both joyful and safe.
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Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
