Events in Munich

Munich, the vibrant capital of Bavaria, is celebrated not only for its captivating cultural landscape, historic architecture and top-tier gastronomy but also for its vibrant array of events. Throughout the year, the diverse array of festivals, entertainment options and cultural happenings beckon visitors from around the world. From the iconic Oktoberfest to high-brow cultural showcases, concerts and thrilling sporting events, Munich offers something for everyone. Embark on a journey of discovery of the city’s calendar of events and transform your urban getaway into an unforgettable adventure!

 

Christmas Markets

Munich transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, hosting a variety of Christmas markets that attract visitors from all over the world. This year, 24 Christmas markets feature a mix of traditional crafts, festive foods, and unique artistic presentations. Below are some of the most popular Christmas markets in Munich for you to explore:

25 November - 24 December 2024  Christmas market on Marienplatz square
26 November - 31 December 2024  Tollwood Winter Festival
27 November - 07 January 2024       Munich Feuerzangenbowle at the Isartor
30 November - 23 December 2024  Pink Christmas
28 November - 29 December 2024   Märchenbazar in Olympiapark

 

Spring events

BMW Open Tennis

• 12 - 20 April 2025
• The annual ATP tournament attracts top international players to compete on the city's clay courts. It offers thrilling matches and a lively atmosphere for tennis fans each spring.

Munich Spring Festival on the Theresienwiese

• 25 April - 11 May 2025
• Munich's Frühlingsfest offers an early Oktoberfest experience with traditional Bavarian attire, thrilling rides, various stalls, and lively festival tents. Attracting thousands of visitors, it's a spring celebration where people enjoy local treats, handcrafted goods, and a festive atmosphere.

Auer Dult – Maidult

• 26 April - 4 May 2025
• The Maidult invites visitors to enjoy nostalgic rides, handmade goods, and Bavarian treats. Whether in traditional attire or regular clothes, everyone celebrates spring.

Cocktail X-Barfestival 

• The Cocktail X-Barfestival is a vibrant celebration of mixology, featuring innovative cocktails crafted by renowned bartenders from around the world. For one week, attendees can enjoy tastings, workshops, and live entertainment in a lively atmosphere dedicated to the art of cocktail making.

Long Night of the Music 

• The Long Night of Music in Munich showcases a diverse range of live performances across various venues throughout the city. Music lovers can enjoy everything from classical to contemporary genres, creating a vibrant and unforgettable night of artistic celebration.

Spring/Summer Highlight: the Cultural Beach 

• Cultural Beach in Munich offers a relaxing escape on the banks of the Isar, featuring sandy beaches, deckchairs, and a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy live music and film screenings while soaking up the sun in this unique urban oasis.

 

©Fotocredit: Werner Böhm, Sigi Müller

Summer Events

Open-air Cinemas: Fresh Air Cinema, Cinema in Westpark, Cinema at the Olympic Lake

• Enjoy the magic of movies under the stars at various locations in Munich throughout the summer. From the latest blockbusters to timeless classics, there’s something for every cinema enthusiast.

Nymphenburg Palace Concerts

• Be mesmerised by world-class performances of Baroque and Classical music in the picturesque Hubertussaal of Nymphenburg Palace. Let the historical backdrop of the palace and its gardens enhance these splendid musical evenings.

Tollwood Summer Festival

• This renowned festival at the Olympic Park is a cultural extravaganza, featuring a wide array of art, cultural and musical events. Wander the ‘Market of Ideas’, where creativity and culture blend seamlessly.

CSD Munich

• Join the vibrant celebration of diversity and tolerance at Munich’s annual Pride Parade. The weekend promises a colourful array of events and an inclusive atmosphere for all attendees.

Munich Film Festival

• Dive into an exciting lineup featuring international blockbusters and exclusive screenings with distinguished guests from all over the world.

Munich Opera Festival

• Enjoy a rich schedule at the Bavarian State Opera, including three world premieres, four festival debuts and a variety of other opera and ballet performances during the six-week opera festival.

Munich Summer Theatre in the English Garden

• Spend your evenings enchanted by the summer theatre programme in the lush setting of one of Munich’s most beautiful parks.

BMW International Open Golf

• Organised by BMW, in collaboration with the Munich Eichenried Golf Club. Witness the 35th edition of Germany’s most prestigious golf tournament, where international golf professionals compete for a top title on the DP World Tour.´

Classical Music at Odeonsplatz Open-Air

• Experience sublime musical performances by renowned orchestras and world-class artists in this spectacular open-air setting, presented by Bayerischer Rundfunk and the city of Munich.

Open-Air Midsummer Night's Dream with Fireworks

• Immerse yourself in a mesmerising night featuring live acts, diverse culinary offerings and a stunning pyrotechnic display over the Olympic Lake and the Olympic Mountain. A magical evening that promises enjoyment, awe and inspiration.

Kocherlball

• Experience the traditional Kocherlball at the Chinese Tower in the English Garden and let yourself be enchanted by the unique ambience including Bavarian music, dances and delicacies.

Munich Open Air Summer in the Fountain Courtyard of the Residenz

• Enjoy a series of enchanting open-air concerts spanning genres from classical Vivaldi to pop legends Abba, all set in the historic fountain courtyard of the Munich Residence.

 

Autumn Events

Oktoberfest

• 21 - 06 October 2024
• Don't miss out when it's time to say: O'zapft is! Join the world’s largest folk festival, featuring various amusement rides and numerous market stalls. Celebrate the rich Bavarian tradition in its 189th year.
• Find more information here.

Traditional Costume and Marksmen Parade

• 22 September 2024
• Experience this magnificent parade featuring traditional Bavarian costumes and riflemen, a festive highlight on the first Sunday of Oktoberfest, weaving through Munich’s city centre starting from Maxmonument. 
• Find more information here.

Residence Week

• 11 - 20 October 2024
• Explore a cultural fest featuring art exhibitions, musical performances and guided tours at the Munich Residence - a perfect blend of art and history.
• Find more information here starting September.

Munich Marathon

• 13 October 2024
• Lace up for the Munich Marathon, a scenic route through the city. The event includes a traditional costume run or a mini-marathon, offering something for every runner. which takes participants across the entire city. There are also a variety of events around the race, such as the traditional costume run or the mini-marathon.
• Find more information here.

Long Night of the Munich Museums

• 19 October 2024
• Enjoy a night of culture and exploration as Munich’s museums open late, offering a diverse program alongside their regular exhibitions.
• More information will be available here soon.

Auer Dult: Kirchweihdult

• 19 - 27 October 2024
• Experience the charm of this traditional fair with its myriad stalls and ambient atmosphere, marking the last Auer Dult of the year. 
• Find more information here.

Munich Book Fair

• 14 November - 01 December 2024
• Dive into the literary world at the 65th Munich Book Fair, where book lovers can discover new reads and participate in a variety of literary events.
• Find more information here.