Oktoberfest 2025: A Bavarian Celebration and Economic Driver
Munich, September 19, 2025 – As the conventional keg tapping approaches tomorrow, Bavaria‘s Minister of Tourism, Michaela Kaniber, hailed Oktoberfest 2025 as the pinnacle of Bavarian culinary tradition, enjoyment, and joie de vivre. “Oktoberfest is Bavaria’s most prominent showcase, a welcoming symbol to the world,” minister Kaniber stated. “We celebrate our customs, savor the best of Bavarian products, and extend that invitation to everyone.”
The world’s largest folk festival significantly shapes Bavaria’s international image. Kaniber emphasized the festival’s role in fostering global understanding,noting,”When millions of guests,young and old,celebrate peacefully from across the globe,international understanding thrives in the heart of Bavaria. Bavaria celebrates – and the world celebrates with us.”
A growing trend towards regional specialties is also being observed, benefiting Bavarian producers. “Guests are increasingly seeking out regional dishes and drinks,” Kaniber explained, “making Oktoberfest not only authentic for visitors but also a boon for our producers in rural regions.” The Ministry, in partnership with the Bavarian Hotel and Restaurant Association (Dehoga Bayern EV), recognizes tents prioritizing regional goods and authentic Bavarian cuisine with the “excellent marquee” designation – a title earned this year by 15 Oktoberfest tents. “Our landlords are ambassadors of the Bavarian way of life, championing regional products and genuine hospitality,” Kaniber affirmed.
from globally renowned Oktoberfest beer to Allgäu Emmentaler, Nuremberg Bratwurst, and Obazda, the festival’s offerings represent a unique culinary heritage passed down through generations.
Beyond its cultural significance, Oktoberfest is a powerful economic engine. The overall economic impact is estimated at around 1.5 billion euros, with 634 million euros spent directly on the Theresienwiese and a further 937 million euros flowing into the hotel industry, catering, trade, and transportation sectors.
However, Minister Kaniber stressed that the true essence of Oktoberfest transcends mere economic figures. “Anyone who has walked the festival grounds in dirndls or lederhosen can feel the unique blend of camaraderie, Bavarian identity, and pure joy,” she said. This atmosphere resonates particularly strongly with locals, as approximately three-quarters of Oktoberfest visitors hail from Munich, the surrounding area, and the rest of Bavaria.
Concluding, Minister Kaniber declared, “Oktoberfest is as integral to Munich as the Frauenkirche and the Isar River. It’s a celebration for the world, but first and foremost, for us Bavarians. Here, we celebrate our lifestyle, our connection to home, and our culture.”
