If you’ve always thought Oktoberfest was just for adults and beer lovers, think again. Taking Oktoberfest with kids was one of the biggest surprises of our trip — it was far more family-friendly than we ever expected. From traditional Bavarian outfits to carnival rides, giant pretzels, and even kid-approved drinks, there’s plenty for children to enjoy.
If you’re planning to visit Munich during September or October and wondering whether to bring the kids, this guide to Oktoberfest with kids will help you plan a fun and stress-free trip. Here’s everything you need to know to make Oktoberfest with kids fun, safe, and memorable.
Dressing the Part: Traditional Bavarian Outfits for Families
One of the most fun parts of Oktoberfest is the clothing. Most visitors wear traditional Bavarian outfits — dirndls for women and girls, lederhosen for men and boys. While you’ll see plenty of people in jeans and T-shirts, embracing the culture makes the whole experience more special. Dressing up is half the fun of Oktoberfest with kids because little ones love dressing up!
Where we shopped: I bought my daughter’s and my dirndls on Amazon, and they were surprisingly authentic, beautiful, and high quality.
Hotel finds: At the Westin Grand Munich (our hotel), there was a large selection of clothing for adults and children. Brooklyn and I picked up floral headbands there, and Kevin bought a vest after realizing his shorts didn’t fit (sizes tend to run small!).
Kids’ outfits: My boys’ lederhosen were more costume-like but worked perfectly for a first-time visit.
👉 Tip: Order your outfits ahead of time to ensure the right size, but know that you can always pick up extras in Munich. Here are the outfits we purchased beforehand.
How to Get to Oktoberfest with Kids
From the Westin Grand Munich, it was a quick 5-minute walk to the Arabellapark U-Bahn stop. We took the train about 25 minutes to Theresienwiese, the main Oktoberfest station. The U-Bahn makes Oktoberfest with kids simple, even if it’s your first time navigating Munich’s transit system.
Playground stop: Right outside the Theresienwiese station is a large outdoor playground. If we’d planned better, we would have let the kids play there around 9:15 a.m. before heading in — it’s a great way for kids to get energy out before the festival.
Finding the entrance: Simply follow the crowds. There are even arrows sprayed on the sidewalk if you need extra guidance.
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Entry and Security at Oktoberfest
Free admission: Oktoberfest is free to enter — no tickets required.
Bag checks: Security checks all bags. Backpacks and large purses aren’t allowed (although some online blogs have noted they did bring a backpack), so I brought a crossbody fanny pack. I didn't want to test it and didn't see anyone inside with a large bag. Inside my crossbody bag, I kept small toys for my 5-year-old, which kept him entertained at the tables.
Tips for Visiting Oktoberfest with Children
These simple tips made Oktoberfest with kids enjoyable instead of overwhelming.
Arrive Early
We arrived around 11 a.m. and found a spot at a table with no problem. By 2 p.m., it was packed, and I doubt we could have sat down. The festival opens at 10 a.m. — that’s the best time for families.
👉 Kids under 6 must leave the festival grounds by 8 p.m.
Bring Cash
While a few stands take cards, Oktoberfest is primarily a cash-only festival. You’ll need it for food, drinks, games, and rides.
Bathrooms
The bathrooms are located outside of the tents. Make a stop before entering so you don’t have to run out during a meal.
Food Options for Kids
The outdoor stands are the easiest for families, with simple kid-friendly options like hot dogs, French fries, and giant pretzels. Inside the tents, the meals are hearty and traditional but can be harder for picky eaters.
The Best Family-Friendly Tents at Oktoberfest
Choosing the right tent is one of the most important parts of planning Oktoberfest with kids.
Augustiner-Festhalle: Our top pick. It had a relaxed vibe, live traditional music, big pretzels, and plenty of families.
Festzelt Tradition: Another family-friendly tent. The kids loved the colorful character balloons for sale here.
Paulaner Tent: One of the most famous Oktoberfest tents. Worth walking through for the atmosphere, but it was too packed for us to sit with kids.
👉 Kid favorite: Order them an Apfelschorle (apple juice mixed with sparkling water). It’s served in a beer glass, so they feel part of the fun without the beer. My 10-year-old thought it was the best drink ever!
Rides, Games, and Entertainment for Kids
In between tents, you’ll find rides, games, and carnival-style attractions. Each one requires cash payment. Our kids loved riding rides, playing games, and winning small stuffed animals. For them, this was just as exciting as the food and music inside the tents.
Final Thoughts: Is Oktoberfest Family-Friendly?
Absolutely!
If you plan wisely, Oktoberfest with kids can be an incredible experience. Arrive early, bring plenty of cash, choose the right tents, and take breaks for rides and games. Between the traditional music, kid-friendly drinks, carnival fun, and festive outfits, it’s a memory-making experience for the whole family.
So yes — you can absolutely enjoy Oktoberfest with kids. And who knows, it might just end up being one of your kids’ favorite travel memories too!
✨ Save this guide for your next family trip to Munich — and don’t be afraid to bring the kids along to Oktoberfest!
Written by Brittany, Stay at Home Activity Mom
Brittany is a former elementary school teacher turned stay-at-home mom of three. Passionate about children learning through play, she began sharing her simple, hands-on, and education activities on her Instagram @stayathomeactivitymom so that other parents could see how fun this type of at-home learning can be.
