Oktoberfest isn’t just for beer lovers and partygoers—it’s a beloved tradition for Munich families and a fantastic experience for kids of all ages. With the right planning, you can enjoy one of the world’s most iconic festivals with your family, taking advantage of special offers, safe and welcoming environments, and a host of attractions designed just for kids.
Is Oktoberfest Family Friendly?
Absolutely! Despite its boisterous reputation, Oktoberfest is a genuine family festival during morning and early afternoon hours. Kids are welcome across the entire fairground—even in beer tents—with restrictions only in the evening (no under-6s in beer tents after 8 pm, and under-16s must be with a parent or guardian). Special areas like the Oide Wiesn, Familienplatzl, and Family Days help make the event even more child-focused.
Best Times to Visit with Kids
- Morning and early afternoon: Quieter crowds and less rowdy atmosphere make these the best times for families, especially with strollers.
- Family Days (Tuesdays): Rides, snacks, games, and tent menus are all discounted until 7 pm. Sweet deals and shorter lines abound—perfect for maximizing fun without breaking the bank.
- Avoid peak hours: Evenings and weekends are extremely crowded. Strollers aren’t permitted after 6 pm (and never allowed on Saturdays or the holiday), so plan accordingly.
Family-Friendly Areas & Attractions
- Oide Wiesn: The “Old Oktoberfest” is perfect for children. Its entry fee ensures manageable crowds and a calmer vibe, while historic rides cost only €1.50 each. There’s a puppet theater, dancing displays, animal attractions, and the Festzelt Tradition tent, where kids can watch folk dancers and musicians up close.
- Familienplatzl: This area serves up child-portioned meals, a microwave for baby food, stroller parking, and a baby changing room—all set on step-free flooring. Family games and rides for toddlers create hours of fun.
- Classic Rides: Carousels, the Riesenrad (ferris wheel), family coasters, haunted houses, and historic favorites like the Toboggan and Schichtl show mean there’s something for every age. Many rides are suitable for even very small children, especially during morning hours.
Kid-Friendly Oktoberfest Tents
- Augustiner Festzelt: Renowned as the most family-friendly large tent. On Tuesdays, especially, there is a “Kids Day” with discounted meals for young visitors. The vibe is relaxed, quieter, and less focused on rowdy partying.
- Armbrustschützenzelt and Marstall Festzelt: These have a welcoming midday family vibe, kids menus, and live music that’s exciting but not overwhelming.
- Festzelt Tradition (Oide Wiesn): Traditional music, folk dancing, and family-oriented entertainment in an authentic, less hectic tent. Reserve ahead for lunch.
- Café tents and smaller venues: Café Kaiserschmarrn is a favorite for cakes and calmer breaks—great for little ones who need a pause from the crowds.
Essential Tips for Parents
- Strollers: Allowed up to 6 pm (not on Saturdays or holidays). Stroller parking and baby changing rooms are available near entrances, Familienplatzl, and Oide Wiesn.
- Bag Restrictions: Only small bags (max 3 liters, about 20x15x10 cm) are permitted. Plan diaper bags and snacks accordingly—or use festival amenities for food heating.
- Bring snacks/water: You can bring your own food for the little ones into the beer gardens. Take advantage of free drinking water fountains across the grounds.
- Set a meeting point: The crowds can be dense and children can wander. Show your kids the info stands, lost-and-found service, and festival police; obtain a free child’s wristband at information booths for contact info in case of separation.
- Toilets, baby rooms, first aid: Baby and toddler amenities, plus first aid and safe spaces, are well-located throughout the Wiesn. Don’t hesitate to use them—they’re there for families just like yours!
Fun Family Food
Oktoberfest is full of kid-friendly treats! Don’t miss out on classics like giant pretzels, roast chicken, sweet Schmalznudeln (fried dough), Kaiserschmarrn pancakes, hand-sized baked goods, fruit skewers, and hot chocolate. Many tents offer special kids’ menus and smaller portions.
Special Offers & Family Days
Family Days are held every Tuesday (and sometimes select Fridays). These days feature steep discounts on rides, food, and souvenirs. Head to Familienplatzl and Oide Wiesn early for the best experience. Various stands and tents offer “surprise” kids’ meals and fun little gifts.
Safety & Services
- Lost Children’s Service: If a child gets separated, reunite quickly at the Service Center’s lost-and-found, where staff are trained for exactly this situation. Free “child finder” wristbands (with parent contact details) are available at entrances and info points.
- First Aid, Police, Safe Spaces: Security is excellent and help is never far—medical, police, and “safe spaces” for women and families are always accessible.
- Guide maps available: Pick up a festival guide for family-friendly facilities, restrooms, and attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can babies and toddlers go to Oktoberfest? Yes—mornings and the Oide Wiesn are ideal. Baby changing, food warming, and stroller access are all available.
- Is it safe to take kids to Oktoberfest? Yes! Stay clear of peak times, use meeting points, and enjoy the multitude of family services.
- Can children eat in the tents? Absolutely—many tents offer kids’ portions and family-friendly menus.
Oktoberfest is truly a celebration for all ages. With early starts, a bit of planning, and these family-focused tips, your kids can experience Bavarian tradition at its best—and you’ll make some of the happiest family memories of your lives.