Facts and figures about Oktoberfest
There are 17 large beer tents and two dozen smaller tents on the festival grounds. There are also 200 stands and stalls, around 160 rides and so-called “amusement establishments”. The business is a big challenge for many showmen. Increased personnel and electricity costs make it difficult to maintain “popular prices,” says showman spokesman Robert Eckl.
Last year, Oktoberfest attracted 5.7 million visitors, although some others were still cautious due to the corona pandemic. This year, more than 6 or even 7 million visitors are expected again, also because Oktoberfest lasts longer than usual. 18 days until the holiday on October 3rd (a Tuesday) can be celebrated this year.
This time there are no more Corona rules
The safety of visitors is to be guaranteed by, among other things, 600 specially trained police officers. The festival area is fenced in, random checks are carried out at the entrances, and large bags and backpacks are prohibited.
However, there are no longer any Corona rules at Oktoberfest either. Oktoberfest boss Clemens Baumgärtner (CSU) is also tired of the discussion about possible risks of infection. It is “no longer an issue, and not just because I say so, but because it is the state of affairs worldwide, from the WHO to the Federal Ministry of Health.” That’s why we want to concentrate on “having a nice festival.”