Munich

Starting in the second half of September and spanning 16 days, Munich’s Theresienwiese transforms into something that might seem like the world’s largest fun fair. The Oktoberfest is primarily a beer festival, yet it also features numerous stalls, events, and exciting attractions to explore. Don’t miss the Bavaria statue and the Hall of Fame sitting on the hill overlooking the Theresienwiese. The Bavaria is considered the first colossal sculpture of the Modern Age, while the Hall of Fame is an impressive columned hall built to honour significant figures from Bavaria.

Since its founding, almost 140 years ago, the annual Munich Opera Festival, also known as 'Münchner Opernfestspiele', represents the highlight of Munich's opera calendar. The Festival takes place every summer, typically in July; however, it's advisable to check the specific dates each year if you plan to attend.

Munich Mash is a premier action sports event held in Munich's Olympic Park, featuring top athletes competing in disciplines like Street League Skateboarding, Wakeboard Rail & Air, and BMX Spine Ramp. Apart from action sports, the festival also offers a vibrant mix of music, art, fashion, design, and entertainment. Munich Mash is a summer event; however, the dates vary each year. It's advisable to check the specific dates in advance to plan your visit accordingly.

Christopher Street Day, or CSD, is an annual European Pride celebration and demonstration held in various cities across Europe for the rights of LGBTIQ+ people, and against discrimination and exclusion. The Pride Week takes place every summer, transforming the city into a vibrant display of colour. The festivities include a parade featuring colourful floats and an open-air street festival around Marienplatz and the town hall. Last but not least, it's advisable to check the dates in advance for most events in Munich if you plan to attend.

Germany's Christmas markets are famous worldwide for their festive atmosphere and traditions. The Schwabing Christmas Market, an institution in Munich for four decades, is a magical destination in the heart of the city. Each year, artists from Schwabing come together to create a Christmas world filled with arts, crafts, and culinary delights for visitors to enjoy.

The Frühlingsfest at Munich's Theresienwiese, often dubbed as the 'little brother' of the Oktoberfest, spans two weeks and mirrors many aspects of its famous counterpart. Visitors can enjoy beer tents, showmen, rides, and stalls during this lively event. Notably, the festival also hosts the BRK flea market, the largest in southern Germany.

Traditionally held in the month of March in various breweries all over the city, the Starkbierfest allows visitors to savour a range of delicious strong beer classics. Known for their high starch and protein content, as well as an alcohol content ranging from 7% to 9%, these beers offer both taste and substance, providing a hearty liquid meal for beer enthusiasts.

The Auer Dulten are traditional fairs held at Mariahilfplatz square in Munich. They take place for nine days, three times a year, offering food, drink, shopping, or simply a leisurely stroll. Dating back to medieval times, the market retains the character of a folk festival. It covers approximately 22,000 square metres of fairground, creating an island of fun and cosy atmosphere in the heart of the city. The May Dult kicks off towards the end of April, followed by the Jakobi Dult in the last week of July, and the Kirchweih Dult in mid-October.