Oktoberfest beer explained

Oktoberfest is the world’s biggest beer festival, but there’s far more to it than lederhosen and litre-sized steins. From traditional Oktoberfest beer and its strength to the rituals that open the festival, here’s everything you need to know before raising your first mug.

When does Oktoberfest take place?

Oktoberfest officially begins on the second-to-last Saturday in September. The festival traditionally kicks off with the ceremonial tapping of the first barrel, marking the official start of celebrations in Munich.

What is Oktoberfest beer?

Traditional Oktoberfest beer is based on the Märzen style.

Before modern cooling techniques existed, brewing beer during summer in Bavaria was forbidden. Breweries therefore produced a stronger, hoppier beer in March that could be stored for several months. This beer (Märzen) was brewed with higher alcohol and bitterness to survive the warmer months.

Over time, Oktoberfest beer evolved into a slightly lighter, more drinkable version of Märzen, brewed using Munich malt, which adds subtle caramel notes and a smooth body. Like all traditional Bavarian beers, it is brewed according to the Reinheitsgebot (German Beer Purity Law).

Today, Oktoberfest is the largest folk festival in the world, welcoming between 6 and 7 million visitors each year.

Why do people drink from Oktoberfest steins?

The iconic Oktoberfest stein is deeply rooted in Bavarian culture.

Made from thick glass or ceramic, these sturdy mugs hold one full litre of beer and are built to survive enthusiastic toasting inside busy beer tents. Their large size also means fewer trips for refills — an essential feature during long Oktoberfest sessions.

More than just practical, steins are a core part of the Oktoberfest experience.

How did Oktoberfest become a beer festival?

At the end of summer, Bavarians traditionally drank the oldest beer first — usually Märzen. Over time, this practice became central to the Oktoberfest celebrations.

Oktoberfest beer was refined to be slightly lighter and more drinkable than traditional Märzen, while still offering a fuller body and higher alcohol content. This balance helped define the modern Oktoberfest style we know today.

Who can officially call their beer “Oktoberfest beer”?

Only six Munich breweries are allowed to officially label their beer as Oktoberfest beer. This is because Oktoberfest is a protected designation.

The approved breweries are:

• Augustiner

• Hacker-Pschorr

• Löwenbräu

• Spaten

• Paulaner

• Hofbräu

Any beer brewed outside Munich (even if it tastes similar) cannot legally be called Oktoberfest beer.

What is the strongest Oktoberfest beer?

Among the official breweries, Hofbräu produces the strongest Oktoberfest beer.

Here’s how the Oktoberfest beer percentage compares:

• Hofbräu – 6.3% ABV

• Löwenbräu – 6.1% ABV

• Paulaner – 6.0% ABV

• Augustiner – 6.0% ABV

• Spaten – 5.9% ABV

• Hacker-Pschorr – 5.8% ABV

These may not sound extreme, but for many visitors unaccustomed to strong German beer, the effects can sneak up, especially when served by the litre. Pace yourself.

Let’s talk quantity: the Oktoberfest mug

The traditional Oktoberfest mug holds one litre of beer. And yes, you’ll feel it.

While the solid handle helps, sore arms (and the occasional bruise) are not uncommon. Spare a thought for the waiters and waitresses, who carry 7 to 12 full steins per round, from morning until night, across the festival’s 16 days.

It’s demanding work, but with tips included, earnings can reach up to £10,000.

How much does a mug of beer cost at Oktoberfest?

Expect to pay around €11 per litre.

Fifty years ago, a litre cost less than a pound. Today, prices typically range between £8 and £10, and ordering less than a litre simply isn’t an option.

The opening of Oktoberfest

The Mayor kicks things off

The official opening takes place on the first Saturday at Schottenhamel Festzelt, where the Mayor of Munich taps the first keg and drinks the opening beer.

This tradition dates back to 1950. While the mayor at the time reportedly drank 17 mugs, today’s celebrations are far more restrained. Current mayor Dieter Reiter’s record stands at just two mugs (moderation has clearly entered the tent!).

How was Oktoberfest born?

The origins of Oktoberfest date back to 1810, when the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig of Bavaria and Princess Therese of Saxe-Hildburghausen was celebrated on the Theresienwiese.

The five-day celebration was such a success that it became an annual event. Beer was present from the start, although originally served on nearby hills rather than directly on the Wiesn.

What is the anthem of Oktoberfest?

“Ein Prosit der Gemütlichkeit”

You’ll definitely recognise Oktoberfest’s famous anthem when you hear it. Interestingly, Ein Prosit der Gemütlichkeit doesn’t originate from Bavaria, but from Chemnitz in Saxony.

Composed by Bernhard Dittrich, the song has been part of Oktoberfest celebrations since 1912 — long after the composer’s death.

From protected brewing traditions to litre-sized steins, Oktoberfest beer is about more than just drinking: it’s history, culture and celebration rolled into one. Whether you’re attending the festival or recreating it at home, knowing the story behind the beer makes every sip more meaningful.