Tips from the Oktoberfest host

Mr Inselkammer, you have been the Oktoberfest host of the Armbrustschützenzelt for 35 years. What is it like to help organise this unique festival every year?

Every year brings new ideas, tasks and surprises. Although many things have become routine, with fixed schedules and procedures, every Oktoberfest is a new challenge. No two years are the same, and that's what makes it so exciting.

There are going to be some changes in the Armbrustschützenzelt this year. Can you tell us what guests can expect?

The biggest project is our Halali Bar. We are moving it from the corner of the tent to the main entrance and enlarging it so that it is accessible from the outside for the first time. This will provide more space and seating, as well as an expanded bar menu featuring our popular Spatzl Drink from Platzl.

Another major topic is cashless payment. More and more waiters will be equipped with devices or QR code solutions, enabling guests to pay directly at their table. We are introducing this gradually and are excited to see how far we can get with it this year.

Do you have any advice for people who haven't made a reservation for a table this year?

The Halali Bar offers the chance to experience the Oktoberfest atmosphere, even if you don't have a table in the tent. Those without a reservation can still celebrate and be part of the action here. There is a wide range of wines (including organic varieties), Dallmayr coffee, and Platzl signature drinks. Many tent guests also enjoy switching from the beer bench to the bar from time to time.

The Oktoberfest thrives on tradition, yet it is constantly evolving. What do you personally consider to be the biggest change in recent years?

The way people socialise has changed; more and more young people are embracing traditional attire and are drawn to the festival. During the day, the stage belongs to the brass bands, who uphold the traditional values of the festival. In the evening, there will be lively celebration. This trend has been evident for a few years now, and it's great to see young and old celebrating together.

Many visitors have no idea how much planning goes into setting up a tent like this one. Could you give us a glimpse behind the scenes?

Planning for next year begins immediately after the Oktoberfest. Construction plans and changes regarding fire safety, escape routes and permits must be submitted by the end of December. At the beginning of the year, we start taking reservations and planning personnel and the tent construction. Construction begins in July and lasts around 10 weeks. You could say that, for us, almost the whole year feels like Oktoberfest!

Do you have a favourite moment at the Oktoberfest that moves you every year?

One of my favourite moments is the arrival of the Oktoberfest hosts. When I tap the first barrel and sense the excitement in the tent, it's a special moment every year.

Then, of course, there's the open-air concert at the Bavaria statue on the second Sunday of the Oktoberfest. All the brass bands play together and, at the end, the Bavarian anthem is played while hundreds of balloons rise into the sky. It's a truly beautiful moment that is synonymous with the Oktoberfest.

If you had to describe the Oktoberfest in three words, what would they be?

Traditional, Munich-style and fun.

Finally, what are your five top tips for the Oktoberfest 2025 for locals and tourists alike?

1. Visit the Wiesn on Sundays, especially the first Sunday with the Trachtler, which has a particularly atmospheric and authentic Munich vibe.
2. Try the Teufelsrad, an original attraction that you can experience as either a spectator or an active participant.
3. Oide Wiesn  –  is ideal for families with children as it is quieter than the main Oktoberfest.
4. Have lunch in the beer garden and enjoy the atmosphere on a nice day. Have something to eat and drink while you watch the hustle.
5. Souvenirs – the Wiesn mug with this year's motif, or the Armbrustschützenzelt mug, designed by the Oktoberfest hostess herself each year with an animal motif.