What’s New at the Wiesn (Oktoberfest 2024)
Starting from September 21st to October 6th, Munich will host the world’s biggest folk festival at Theresienwiese. This year marks the 189th Oktoberfest, and it’ll be 16 days of pure fun. The festival kicks off with the traditional barrel tapping by Mayor Dieter Reiter on September 21st at noon in the Schottenhamel Festhalle.
All New innovations at the Oktoberfest 2024 (showmen and tents)
Wiesn boss Clemens Baumgärtner presented all the important innovations at the Wiesn at the opening press conference. The festival site covers an area of 34.5 hectares. 927 businesses applied for the Oktoberfest 2024, and 470 businesses were approved this year, including 153 from the catering sector, 123 fairground businesses, 194 market traders, and several service businesses. This year, 101 businesses applied for the Oidn Wiesn, and 41 were approved, of which 18 were catering businesses and 23 were showmen.
RAW, Moritz Röder
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Business For Oktoberfest 2024: 927 Applications and 470 Approved
Business For Wiesn: 101 Applications and 41 Approved
New at the Wiesn 2024
- Jim & Jasper’s Wild Wasser: The Largest Transportable White Water Ride in Europe
- Kick Down: A Dynamic Thrill Ride
- Hupferl: A Bavarian Classic Reimagined
- Grand Carousel: A Journey Through Time
- Laser-Pix: An Interactive Adventure
- Big Picture 2.0: A 12D Cinema Experience
1. Jim & Jasper’s Wild Wasser: The Largest Transportable White Water Ride in Europe
One of the most anticipated new attractions is ‘Jim & Jasper’s Wild Wasser,’ Europe’s largest portable wild water ride. This thrilling experience promises to set new fairground standards with its state-of-the-art design and heart-pounding drops. As riders navigate the swirling waters, they’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the festival grounds—assuming they can keep their eyes open! This ride is sure to be a hit with adrenaline junkies and families alike, offering an exhilarating way to cool off during the warmer days of the festival.
2. Kick Down: A Dynamic Thrill Ride
For those who crave a more intense thrill, the ‘Kick Down’ ride is a must-try. This new attraction combines three different motion sequences, creating a dynamic experience that’s sure to get your heart racing. The ride features a rotating arm with an inclined axis of rotation, moving a platform in the opposite direction. On this platform are five free-swinging gondolas, each holding four people. At full speed, the gondolas reach speeds of up to 50 kilometers per hour, making for a ride that’s as dizzying as it is exhilarating.
3. Hupferl: A Bavarian Classic Reimagined
The ‘Hupferl’ ride, a Bavarian favorite since 1987, is making a comeback at this year’s Wiesn. This ride may look simple at first glance, but it offers a unique challenge: as it spins and bounces up and down, passengers must hold on using only their strength. With a round bench that can accommodate around 50 people, and a hydraulic system that accelerates the ride up to 14 revolutions per minute, the ‘Hupferl’ is sure to bring out the competitive spirit in all who ride it.
4. Grand Carousel: A Journey Through Time
The Grand Carousel is a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity. This multi-story carousel combines the elegance of historical design with the latest technology, creating an experience that’s both nostalgic and innovative. The ride’s design draws inspiration from Baroque, Rococo, and Renaissance styles, with carefully crafted details that transport riders to a bygone era. The carousel is driven by an electric motor, making it climate-neutral and emission-free—a nod to modern sustainability within a traditional framework.
5. Laser-Pix: An Interactive Adventure
Oktoberfest 2024 also introduces ‘Laser-Pix,’ a ride that brings the excitement of a video game to the festival grounds. Passengers are equipped with small pistols and tasked with hitting various targets—some hidden, some moving, and some animated—throughout the ride. The unpredictable course of ‘Laser-Pix’ adds an extra layer of thrill, as riders compete to land as many hits as possible. This interactive ride is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of friendly competition and want to immerse themselves in a unique Oktoberfest experience.
6. Big Picture 2.0: A 12D Cinema Experience
For a truly immersive experience, look no further than ‘Big Picture 2.0,’ a 12D cinema that engages all the senses. This attraction goes beyond traditional 3D cinema, incorporating wind, rain, snow, and other effects to make viewers feel like they’re part of the story. The cinema’s adventurous narratives, combined with these special effects, create a ‘live’ feeling that’s unlike anything else at the festival. Whether you’re a film buff or just looking for a break from the more intense rides, ‘Big Picture 2.0’ offers a captivating and memorable experience.
The Oidn Wiesn: A Nostalgic Journey Back in Time
While the main Oktoberfest 2024 grounds are bustling with new and exciting attractions, the Oidn Wiesn offers a more traditional, nostalgic experience. Located on the southern part of the Theresienwiese, the Oidn Wiesn is dedicated to preserving the history and charm of the original Oktoberfest. Since its inception in 2011, the Oidn Wiesn has become a beloved part of the festival, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and enjoy the simpler pleasures of a bygone era.
This year, the Oidn Wiesn introduces a few new additions of its own, That including:
- 1. Holzpfosten-Scooter: A Blast from the Past
- 2. Boandlkramerei: The New Musicians’ Tent
1. Holzpfosten-Scooter: A Blast from the Past
The ‘Holzpfosten-Scooter’ is a classic bumper car ride that harks back to the 60s and 70s. By reactivating this historic ride, the Richard Müller family is preserving a piece of fairground history for future generations to enjoy. The Holzpfosten-Scooter is one of the few remaining examples of its kind, making it a must-see for fans of vintage rides and anyone looking to experience a bit of Oktoberfest history.
2. Boandlkramerei: The New Musicians’ Tent
Another exciting addition to the Oidn Wiesn is the Boandlkramerei, a new musicians’ tent that offers a mix of traditional and modern folk music. The tent is run by the Schöniger family, who have over 30 years of experience in the folk festival scene. The music program, curated by Winfried Frey, features both well-known artists and up-and-coming folk music groups. The tent’s interior is designed to resemble an old pub, with raised boxes ensuring that all guests have a great view of the stage. In addition to the music, the Boandlkramerei offers a menu of vegan and vegetarian dishes alongside traditional Bavarian fare, and serves Wiesn beer from Augustiner Bräu.
Milestones and Anniversaries
Oktoberfest 2024 is also a year of significant anniversaries, celebrating the rich history and enduring appeal of the festival’s most beloved attractions.
1. The Krinoline Celebrates 100 Years
One of the most iconic rides at Oktoberfest, the Krinoline, is celebrating its 100th birthday this year. This nostalgic ride, known for its leisurely pace and charming brass band, has been a favorite among visitors since it was first introduced in 1924. Originally operated by hand, the Krinoline was electrified in 1936 and has been spinning at a gentle 15 kilometers per hour ever since. The ride’s unique combination of gentle motion and live music makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the more relaxed side of Oktoberfest.
2. Kuffler’s Weinzelt Marks 40 Years
Kuffler’s Weinzelt, one of Oktoberfest’s most popular wine tents, is celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2024. To mark the occasion, the tent is supporting brotZeit e.V., a
charity founded by Uschi Glas that provides healthy breakfasts to schoolchildren in Bavaria and other regions. The Weinzelt, which seats around 1,900 guests, offers an alternative to the traditional beer tents, with a wide selection of wines and champagnes, as well as a menu featuring vegetarian and vegan options. Whether you’re a wine lover or just looking to try something different, Kuffler’s Weinzelt is the perfect place to raise a glass and toast to 40 years of great memories.
Food and Drink: A Feast for the Senses
No Oktoberfest experience would be complete without indulging in the festival’s famous food and drink offerings. From hearty Bavarian classics to new culinary creations, there’s something to satisfy every craving at Oktoberfest 2024.
1. Corn in a Cup: A Fresh Take on Street Food
One of the new food options this year is ‘Corn in a Cup,’ a stand that offers corn with a variety of sauces and toppings. This simple yet delicious dish is perfect for snacking as you wander through the festival grounds. With a range of flavors to choose from, ‘Corn in a Cup’ is sure to be a hit with festival-goers looking for a quick and tasty bite.
2. AuerOx & Suppenküche: Organic Goodness
Another new addition is the ‘AuerOx & Suppenküche’ stand, which serves up organic ox shred buns, Munich fried chicken, and a selection of vegetarian soups. This stand is perfect for those looking to enjoy a hearty meal made with high-quality, organic ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for something meaty or prefer a lighter, vegetarian option, the ‘AuerOx & Suppenküche’ stand has something to satisfy your hunger.
Accessibility and Sustainability: Oktoberfest for Everyone
Oktoberfest 2024 is committed to making the festival more accessible and sustainable than ever before. This year, organizers have introduced several initiatives to ensure that everyone can enjoy the festivities, regardless of their physical abilities or environmental concerns.
1.A Festival for All
In a significant step towards inclusivity, Oktoberfest 2024 will feature individualized maps for large festival tents, making it easier for visitors with disabilities to navigate the grounds. These maps highlight accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating areas, ensuring that everyone can fully participate in the festivities.
2. Clean Drinking Water:
Additionally, the festival will offer ten drinking water fountains spread throughout the site, providing free, clean drinking water to all attendees. These fountains not only promote sustainability by reducing plastic waste but also ensure that everyone stays hydrated during the festival.
2. Virtual Reality for Kids: vr4kids Project
This year, the vr4kids project is bringing a virtual Oktoberfest experience to children and young people with disabilities. The project recently won a German Mittelstand Innovation Award, highlighting its innovative approach to inclusivity. By offering a virtual version of Oktoberfest, vr4kids ensures that everyone can experience the magic of the festival, regardless of physical limitations. This initiative is part of a broader effort to make Oktoberfest a welcoming and inclusive event for all.
So mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready to raise a glass at the 189th Oktoberfest. Prost!
