What Oktoberfest teaches us about making events memorable

As Oktoberfest approaches this year from September 20th to October 5th, 2025, event planners and organizers worldwide have a unique opportunity to glean valuable insights from this iconic celebration. Rooted in rich tradition yet continually evolving to entertain diverse audiences, Oktoberfest offers a masterclass in creating immersive, community-oriented festivals that leave lasting impressions.

Here’s what other events can learn from Oktoberfest to elevate their own festivities.

Creating immersive experiences that engage the senses

Oktoberfest excels in blending historical customs with lively entertainment. Effective event design should aim to craft holistic experiences—pairing cultural elements like traditional music, regional cuisine, and artisanal crafts with engaging activities. For example:

• Bundle goods and services: Combining curated experiences like beer or wine tastings with local food stalls, live performances, or art displays creates a vibrant, multi-layered environment. Attendees should feel transported into a different world, fostering deeper engagement.

• Focus on memorable moments: Designing activities and installations that encourage interaction ensures attendees leave with stories to share. Photo-worthy setups, traditional dress contests, and ceremonial toasts—"Prost!"—can make the event unforgettable, inspiring repeat visits and word-of-mouth promotion.

Fostering a sense of community and belonging

At its heart, Oktoberfest thrives on community participation. Other festivals can adopt similar principles:

• Build connections: Encourage social interactions through communal seating, group activities, or themed tables linked to local clubs or associations. These create a sense of belonging and shared identity.

• Embrace diversity: Modern festivals are increasingly inclusive. Oktoberfest’s Rosa Wiesn, which incorporates LGBT programming into the main festivities, exemplifies how embracing diverse communities can enrich the event and broaden its appeal.

Balancing tradition with modern innovation

While honoring traditions is crucial, festivals that evolve tend to attract broader audiences:

• Incorporate and preserve roots: Oktoberfest’s origins as a royal wedding celebration remain evident in its history, but they are complemented by modern elements that refresh the experience.

• Add new attractions: From fairground rides to contemporary entertainment acts, expanding offerings keeps the event fresh and relevant. Incorporate innovative activities that surprise and delight attendees.

Strategic event design for cultural and commercial impact

Effective event planning involves more than just entertainment:

• Showcase regional culture: Curate authentic experiences—traditional attire, regional dances, and local crafts—that deepen the connection to the area’s heritage.

• Leverage partnerships: Collaborate with local businesses, breweries, and cultural organizations. Such partnerships enhance authenticity, broaden marketing reach, and support economic growth.

Dust off your Lederhosen and head for Munich for the world’s biggest beer drinking festival!

Oktoberfest’s success hinges on its ability to blend tradition with innovation, foster community, and create immersive cultural experiences that resonate across generations. Dust off your Lederhosen and head to Munich for the world’s biggest beer drinking festival! By adopting these principles—creating memorable moments, embracing diversity, and evolving thoughtfully—other events can craft celebrations that are not only popular but also meaningful and inclusive.

As preparations for this year’s Oktoberfest unfold, there’s much to learn about designing festivities that leave lasting impressions. Whether you’re planning a local street fair or an international festival, these insights can help ensure your event stands out—and, more importantly, builds lasting memories.

Prost!