Brits warned: fines at Oktoberfest can exceed €600 for drunken, disorderly behavior

Munich’s Oktoberfest runs from Sept. 22 to Oct. 5 and attracts more than six million visitors each year, including thousands from Britain. A travel group, Hoppa, warns that attendees who drink heavily or behave disruptively can face fines of more than €600. The festival, the world’s largest beer celebration, draws crowds to beer tents, carnival rides and traditional Bavarian culture across the city.

Hoppa’s guide outlines six rules that festival-goers should know. Bringing in outside alcohol or glass into the beer tents is not allowed and can result in ejection and a possible re-entry ban. Those caught with such items may be barred from further entry. Instead, revelers are encouraged to enjoy locally produced beers served in glasses provided by the beer hall operators. Stealing the official Oktoberfest stein mugs is prohibited; mugs are the property of the beerhall operators, and security guards monitor tent entrances. Those caught with a mug could be charged with theft and face a €60 fine. While drinking is common at the festival, public intoxication is not a crime in Germany, but disorderly behavior while intoxicated can trigger fines of up to €500, and urinating behind the tents can bring a €100 penalty.

Smoking or vaping inside the beer hall tents could lead to removal and a festival ban; smokers must go outside to light up. No weapons, sharp objects or fireworks are allowed on festival grounds; confiscation and eviction are common responses, and police may be notified, with charges possible depending on the item and circumstances. Climbing on tables is not tolerated; while there is no specific monetary fine for this, disruptive behavior can lead to immediate removal from the tents and a potential festival ban.

Chris Harrington, Hoppa’s managing director, emphasized the scale of Oktoberfest requires clear rules. "Failure to comply with these rules can lead to festivalgoers being charged hundreds of euros, with more serious offences potentially incurring fines of over €600," Harrington said. The festival runs each year in Munich, drawing visitors from around the world, including many Brits, underscoring the need for advance planning and awareness of local regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

As organizers and local authorities manage the crowds, attendees are urged to respect the posted rules and the operators’ guidelines. The aim is to preserve the tradition, safety and fun of a celebration that attracts millions while minimizing disruptions that can lead to costly penalties.