Oktoberfest in the Red, Germans Don«t Want Beer for 15 Euros a Mug 0 27

First, crowded streets - and then deserted due to a bomb threat: Oktoberfest loses half a day's revenue, and it seems there will be no additional day.

The last day of Oktoberfest this year was overshadowed: due to the bomb threat, the main festival grounds could only open in a limited capacity. The world's largest folk festival brings about 1.57 billion euros to the city of Munich over 16 days, but this time the profits will be more modest.

The lion's share of the turnover comes from shopping, city tours, taxis, other services, and overnight stays for out-of-town guests. According to the municipal authorities of Munich, this amounts to 937 million euros.

The remaining 634 million euros come from the 16-day festivities (Wiesn) on the festival grounds, where fairground attractions, food, and of course beer are set up for visitors! The cost of drinks this year ranges from 10 to 15 euros. Beer is the most expensive: a pint costs between 14.50 and 15.80 euros.

Peter Inselkammer, a representative of the Wiesn landlord, also estimates the sales losses for this day at about 50%. Losses related to the half-day closure may be covered by some insurance companies, depending on the terms. It is assumed that the losses will be caused, in particular, by the closure during lunchtime. After all, a fee of several hundred euros is charged for table reservations. The owners of the Munich Wiesn restaurant offer guests compensation. According to Peter Inselkammer, a reserved table in one of the large beer tents can be rebooked.

Everyone who has meal vouchers can use them on other days without a reservation. They can also be exchanged after Oktoberfest at regular restaurants of the Wiesn owners. A refund is also possible upon presentation of the original receipt. In 2024, Wiesn was visited by about 6.7 million people. They drank about 7 million liters of beer.