Oktoberfest with Kids: Your Ultimate Guide 2025
If you’re thinking of taking the little ones to Oktoberfest this year, yes, it can be overwhelming but that’s why I’m here! This guide will help you make it magical, not stressful.
🗓 When to Go = When It’s More Relaxed
- Weekdays & mornings/early afternoons are your best friends. Fewer crowds, more breathing room, easier with toddlers. Wiesn officially opens around 10 a.m. most days.
- Tuesday Family Days: Two Tuesdays during Oktoberfest are especially great. Until ~7 p.m., many rides, snack stands, etc., offer discounts for kids & families. Great for budget + shorter stay.
👶 What’s Kid-Friendly About Oktoberfest?
- Kinder & catering tent rules: Kids under 6 must leave beer tents by 8 p.m., even with guardians. After that, tents can get loud, crowded, and less kid-friendly.
- There are lots of rides suitable for young kids: classic carousels, small Ferris wheel, chain swings, gentle train rides, puppet theatres, etc. Nothing too scary.
- Family services: Changing tables, baby/nappy rooms, children’s toilets in many spots; stroller/baby carriage policies (allowed during certain times).
- The Familienplatzl (Family-Place) on StraĂźe 3 East: a quieter zone with benches, tables, child-friendly snacks, stroller garage, breastfeeding & changing spaces. Nice to retreat if things get too busy.
🧰 What to Bring & How to Be Prepared
| Item | Reason |
|---|---|
| Lightweight stroller or carrier | Great for walking around; stroller parking areas exist |
| Small backpack + essentials (snacks, water, wet wipes) | Lines + kid energy = need to refuel often |
| Ear protection if your kid is sensitive | Some tents and attractions get loud |
| Cash + small coins | Many rides/snack stands accept cash only; card not always reliable |
| Comfortable shoes | Streets and grass can be uneven + slippery if it rains |
🚇 Getting Around
- Closest station: Theresienwiese U-Bahn station (U4 & U5) drops you right by the Oktoberfest grounds. Trains get busy, especially during peak times.
- Public transport is very useful. Park + ride isn’t great during Wiesn; better to take S-/U-Bahn or tram if possible.
🍔 Food, Breaks, & Places to Calm Down
- Snack breaks are essential. Plenty of small stalls with child-friendly options (pretzels, sausages, fruit, ice cream).
- Use the Familienplatzl for quieter snacks.
đź”’ Safety & Crowd Tips
- Use child finder wristbands at the entrances — they hand them out for free. Write your number down so you can reunite if you split up.
📅 Highlights You Don’t Want to Miss
- Family Days (Tuesdays) with discounted rides & snacks
- Exploring Oide Wiesn (the “old Wiesn”) – more nostalgic, local, often quieter and charming.
- Puppet theatre and daily kids’ show programs in the Oide Wiesen
