Several developments and updates unfold as the 2024 Oktoberfest preparations are near to end. This year’s Oktoberfest celebrations will be greater and more magical than ever with millions of festival lovers raising Stein to the rich Bavarian heritage for the 189th time. The festival is scheduled from Sunday, 21st September to Saturday, 06th October 2024, in Bavaria and at variable times around the world. From banning cannabis to the hiked prices of beer, hold your Steins as we disclose the developments at the upcoming German Oktoberfest.
Oktoberfest Goes Green: Bavaria Bans Cannabis Amidst Beer-Only Policy
The Bavarian state government has announced a ban on cannabis at public events, including Oktoberfest 2024. The Minister-President of Bavaria, Markus Söder, already opposed the recent cannabis legalization in Germany, saying on X that "Bavaria won't be a stoner's paradise."
Despite Germany's recent legalization of cannabis for recreational use, the Bavarian state government has announced a ban on smoking cannabis at public festivals, beer gardens, and the upcoming Oktoberfest, marking a significant divergence in policy within the country.
Bavaria's Health Minister, Judith Gerlach, highlighted the importance of this ban, citing health protection and the need to shield children and young people from cannabis exposure. "Our aim is to limit cannabis consumption in public spaces," Gerlach stated, highlighting that children and young people are often present at these popular public venues.
By prohibiting cannabis, the Bavarian government aims to keep the festival's traditional character intact and ensure a safe environment for all attendees. As Germany navigates its new era of cannabis legalization, Bavaria's approach highlights the diverse perspectives within the nation on this evolving issue. This year's Oktoberfest will testify to Bavaria's commitment to its cultural roots while addressing contemporary public health concerns.
Construction has Begun at Theresienwiese for the 2024 Oktoberfest
With 82 days till the start of Oktoberfest, Clemens Baumgärtner opened the Oktoberfest construction site on July 1st. The construction will continue for 12 consecutive weeks in a tight schedule to ensure that things are ready for the tapping ceremony of 21st September.
In the first construction phase, the large Oktoberfest tents are erected on the Theresienwiese, followed by the smaller and medium-sized tents. Over 1,000 truckloads will be driven to the Oktoberfest grounds, and 13.5 kilometers of cable will be laid.
The Wiesn construction begins two weeks earlier than in the past two editions for two reasons, as explained by the Oktoberfest boss and economic advisor to the city of Munich, Clemens Baumgärtner:
"The tents need more toilets, more details, and subtleties that take time."
Another reason for the extended construction period during Oktoberfest preparations is the rising temperatures. The workers get strained to work without shade at 40 degrees.
"That's why it was important to us that the craftsmen were given a bit more time and space," says Baumgärtner. "Good luck - especially for the craftsmen and craftswomen who work out here."
City of Munich Announces Hike in Drinks Prices at the Upcoming Oktoberfest
The much-anticipated rumors came true on Wednesday, 3rd July, as the city of Munich announced the price of drinks, accounting for a 3.97 percent average increase. For the first time, the 15 Euro mark has been broken.
The most expensive place is the Münchner Stubn, where a Maß costs 15.30 Euros, over a 5% increase from last year.
A liter now costs 15.10 Euros in the Paulaner, Bräurosl, and Hacker festival tents. In the Löwenbräu festival tent and the Marstall, the price is exactly 15 Euros. The cheapest among large tents is the Augustiner-Festhalle, costing 14.10 for a Maß this year.
A Maß is comparatively cheaper at the Oide Wiesn, charging around 14.75 Euros. According to reports, visitors will have to pay an average of 14.73 Euros for a Maß this year, compared to 14.18 Euros last year. Clemens Baumgärtner defends the increased prices saying: "Beer prices are rising by an average of 3.8 percent, which is below the general inflation rate last year."
Not just beer, the prices of non-alcoholic drinks have also risen. Although free water fountains will be set up at the Oktoberfest grounds, an average liter of water will cost 10.48 Euros. Reports say that a liter of lemonade or spezi will also hike up to 13 Euros.
Protip: Shop your Lederhosen and Dirndl at sale prices from authentic Oktoberfest wear stores to save your budget for beer wildness.
Rookwood Pottery All Set to Make the Official Oktoberfest Zinzinnati Beer Steins This Year
The Cincinnati Regional Chamber makes a huge announcement as the city prepares to host their 48th edition of Oktoberfest celebrations. The chamber announced on Thursday that Rookwood Pottery will make the official steins for Oktoberfest Zinzinnati in 2024, set to take place from 19th to 22nd September at Sawyer Point and Yeatman's Cove. The official statement declares:
"We are so excited to partner with Rookwood Pottery on such a huge, celebratory part of Oktoberfest Zinzinnati: the raising of the steins." In their latest press release, Chelsea York, the chamber's vice president of events and experiences, said: "The Rookwood Pottery Company is an iconic 144-year-old Cincinnati brand. Having them make the steins for the largest Oktoberfest in the (nation) is a dream come true for both of our organizations."
The Stein will feature a Patriot Blue interior, symbolizing the Ohio River. The exterior will be 'MaltZin,' a unique brown hue created just for the event, inspired by a Rookwood glaze from the early 1880s. The design will showcase the Oktoberfest logo, a wiener dog, a pretzel, and the Daniel Carter Beard Bridge, all surrounded by hops.
Call for Animal Welfare: Green Politician Suggests Banning Animals at the Oktoberfest Celebrations
In Bavaria's state capital, a proposal by a Green politician to ban animals from the traditional costume and riflemen's parade is stirring controversy. The politician argues that the horses, birds of prey, and hunting dogs endure unnatural noise levels during the parade and suggests using electric tractors instead.
This initiative has drawn criticism from Oktoberfest fans and members of the Munich Greens, including Green Party politician Anja Berger, who disagrees with the proposal. Berger highlights the existing animal welfare measures, such as mandatory veterinary checks and provisions like paddling pools and water troughs.
Oktoberfest boss Clemens Baumgärtner emphasizes the safety mechanisms in place, stating that the animals are accustomed to crowds and traditional events. He insists there is no threat to animal welfare, and the hunters' dogs are remarkably resilient. The debate reflects ongoing tensions over animal treatment at Munich's iconic festival.
Oktoberfest Gets New Sponsor for the 45th Anniversary
Tulsa's iconic Oktoberfest has announced Zeeco, Inc. as its new multi-year title sponsor, marking the festival's 45th anniversary. At a news conference on July 10, organizers previewed the upcoming Zeeco Oktoberfest Tulsa, scheduled for 17th to 20th October at River West Festival Park.
Tulsa County Commissioner Karen Keith expressed her enthusiasm, saying: "Oktoberfest is one of my all-time favorite festivals." CEO and president of Zeeco, Darton Zink, said: "It's an opportunity to experience German culture in a way that you won't experience any other way." He emphasized the Zink family's longstanding dedication to Tulsa through various philanthropic efforts. The festival will continue to support Tulsa River Parks, contributing over $20 million in local and regional economic impact.
Zeeco is a longtime supporter of Tulsa Oktoberfest and a sponsor of "Friday Family Free Day," which grants every member of the family free admission from 11 AM to 4 PM on the Friday of each Oktoberfest. Chairperson of the Oktoberfest board of directors, Mike Dodson, highlighted the inclusion of Zeeco as a significant partnership: "We're bringing our longtime community partner Zeeco to the forefront of the design."
Final Words: Oktoberfest 2024 Will Be a Unique Experience
Munich Oktoberfest 2024 preparations are in full bloom worldwide; as we move closer, more development updates will unfold. Although beer prices have been increased, don’t expect a lesser amount to be consumed this year. As the festival’s popularity increases, there is a high chance that the crowd will be enormous and businesses will peak. Keeping this in mind, an extended period has been allotted for the development, and extra arrangements are being made to overcome problems from the past. So get ready to raise your Stein for the Bavarian culture on 21st September as they cry out O’Zapft Is!