Oktoberfest and the Cannstatter Volksfest: history and tips

In autumn southern Germans celebrate their folk festivals: Oktoberfest in Munich and the Cannstatter Volksfest on the Wasen in Stuttgart. Both have long traditions and draw millions of visitors every year.

The history

Oktoberfest in Munich goes back to the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig and Therese in 1810. The Cannstatter Volksfest was launched in 1818 by King Wilhelm I of Württemberg and is one of the largest folk festivals in Germany.

What belongs to it

Festival tents with brass bands, pretzels, traditional dress, rides and of course beer. At the Cannstatter Volksfest the Fruchtsäule, a column decorated with fruit and produce, stands in the middle of the grounds.

Tips

Weekends and public holidays are especially busy. If you want to eat in peace before or afterwards, plan a table. The dates change every year; Oktoberfest ends on the first Sunday in October, at the latest 3 October.

Oktoberfest at L'Antica

Around Oktoberfest, the design of our website puts on a festive look. At L'Antica Pizzeria Napoletana in Stuttgart you can enjoy Neapolitan pizza and fresh pasta. Want to drop by? Reserve a table or view the menu first.

More festivals & traditions: 4th of July · Halloween in Stuttgart · Christmas in Stuttgart and Italy · Valentine's Day in Stuttgart