munich Oktoberfest temporarily Closed Due to Overcrowding, Sparking Panic
Munich, Germany – The Oktoberfest celebration in Munich was briefly brought to a standstill this afternoon when authorities closed all entrances to the Theresienwiese festival grounds due to overwhelming crowds. The closure, lasting approximately one hour, triggered panic among attendees, with some describing the situation as reminiscent of the 2010 Love Parade tragedy in Duisburg.
The annual Oktoberfest, running from September 20th to October 5th, is known for its large attendance, but today’s density exceeded expectations. Visitors reported being unable to move, leading to feelings of claustrophobia and fear. “We couldn’t go anywhere. it was really bad,I have never experienced anything like that,” one attendee told Bavarian broadcaster BR. “we were onyl pushed. We were scared and could not breathe.” The incident underscores the challenges of managing massive events and ensuring public safety.
Police attribute the surge to a combination of factors, including unexpectedly high attendance and a sudden shift in tent reservations around 5:30 pm. A police spokesperson stated they had never before closed the Theresienwiese due to overcrowding. Initial confusion fueled rumors of a potential attack, further escalating anxiety among the crowd.
Authorities issued appeals in multiple languages discouraging further arrivals, particularly targeting the large number of Italian visitors who traditionally attend the festival via a dedicated train service. The entrances were reopened after approximately an hour, and a city council spokesperson issued an apology for the disruption. The 2010 Love Parade disaster in Duisburg, Germany, resulted in 21 deaths and over 600 injuries due to a crush of people in a poorly managed crowd control situation.
