Oktoberfest 2026: A record-breaking Wiesn

The 2026 Munich Oktoberfest has come to an end with a historic visitor record. Over 16 days of festivities, around 7.4 million people came to the Theresienwiese. This made the 2026 Wiesn the most visited in its history to date.

The Oide Wiesn also enjoyed great popularity: around 447,000 guests visited the historical part of the festival. That was significantly more than in the previous year. Visitor numbers rose particularly sharply during the week – a sign that targeted visitor management has proven its worth.

Key Wiesn figures for 2026

• 7.4 million guests visited the Oktoberfest.
• Around 6.7 million liters of festival beer were served – an increase of 2.7 percent compared to the previous year.
• The large festival tents reported a two to three percent increase in food consumption.
• Non-alcoholic beer increased by 10.7 percent, and non-alcoholic beverages overall by 10 percent.
• Around 4,000 lost property items were registered.
• Security personnel collected about 105,000 beer mugs.
• Street cleaning crews removed 92 tons of waste from the festival grounds.

Hospitality and robust operations

A major event like the Wiesn relies on many people who often work in the background: in the kitchens, in service, at the stands, at the rides, in security, and in cleaning. They all ensure that millions of guests can celebrate together and that the festival grounds are ready again every morning.

For catering businesses, the Wiesn demonstrates every year how important well-planned operations are. When many guests arrive at the same time, proper equipment, reliable technology, and a well-coordinated team are essential. Even small improvements in preparation, refrigeration, dishwashing technology, and workflows can have a significant impact during ongoing operations.

Thank you for a peaceful Wiesn

The festival management drew a positive conclusion: despite the large crowds, there were no cases of overcrowding, and the atmosphere was described as cheerful and peaceful. The Oktoberfest was overshadowed by the fatal accident of a staff member. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and all who were close to him.

We would like to thank all guests, hosts, showmen, employees, emergency services, and helpers. Your commitment and your hospitality made the 2026 Wiesn possible.

Daily life returns – and 2027 begins

After the last day of the Wiesn, normal life returns for many. In the catering industry, operations and the season continue. At the same time, the look ahead begins tomorrow: What proved successful? Which processes can be improved? And what ideas will make the 2027 Wiesn even better for guests and employees?

We say Servus Wiesn 2026 – and look forward to the next round.

ELB Gastro
Professional kitchen technology and equipment for catering businesses.