Oktoberfest kicks off with beer, cheers and a traditional first tap

Oktoberfest 2026 opened in Munich, Germany, when the mayor tapped the first keg. Crowds sang and drank beer while police stepped up security checks.

Oktoberfest opened in Munich, Germany, on Saturday as the mayor tapped the first keg. Video shows the crowd counting down, then mugs passed down from the stage.

The mayor needed only two strokes and gave the traditional cry of O'zapft is, meaning 'It's been tapped'. It was the 191st edition of the world's largest folk festival.

Thousands of visitors in dirndls and lederhosen filled the beer tents on the Theresienwiese fairground. They sang, danced and swayed to brass music. About 6 million people are expected over 16 days, until 4 October.

Security is tighter after last year's festival closed temporarily because of overcrowding. AI-powered cameras detect large crowds early, and knives and drones are banned. About 600 police officers are on duty.