Germany
5 Munich Festivals You Didn’t Know About: From Film to Food
Move over Oktoberfest! From music to film and food, Munich's party calendar brims with plenty of other festivals, some celebrated for centuries, that you should not miss.
When you think of Munich festivals, Oktoberfest likely steals the spotlight – lederhosen, beer steins and all. But once the tents come down, the party doesn’t stop! The Bavarian capital is a year-round hub of quirky, colourful and downright delightful festivals that give the beer giant a run for its money. From sipping on monk-approved strong brews to browsing centuries-old market stalls or catching an indie film under the stars, Munich’s festival scene has something for everyone. Ready to tap into the action? Then check out our top five picks for Munich's best festivals.
1. Strong beer, stronger tradition: Munich's Starkbierfest
If Oktoberfest feels a bit overwhelming for your taste, Starkbierfest is your ticket to a more intimate beer adventure in Munich. Celebrated during Lent (from Ash Wednesday to Easter), this “Strong Beer Festival” revolves around Doppelbock brews made especially for the season. These robust beers, recognised by the “-ator” suffix (like the famous Salvator), boast hearty flavours and a bold 7.5% alcohol kick. Centuries ago, resourceful monks first created these brews to keep their spirits – and stamina – up during fasting.
The festival traditionally kicks off with the Starkbieranstich, the ceremonial tapping of the first keg, at Paulaner’s beer hall on Nockherberg hill. Alongside the beer, you’ll find Bavarian delicacies, lively oompah music and a satirical stage show where comedians dressed as monks roast local politicians.
Insider tip: Reserve your seat early – Starkbieranstich is a favourite event among Munich locals.
- When: March/April
- Where: Paulaner am Nockherberg
- How: Tram 18 to Mariahilfplatz
2. Auer Dult: shopping, nostalgia and carousel rides
With roots in the Middle Ages, the Auer Dult is one of Munich’s oldest and most cherished traditional markets, predating Oktoberfest by centuries. Three times a year, this nine-day festival turns Mariahilfplatz in the village-like district of Au into a bustling hub of Bavarian culture. Against the backdrop of the neo-Gothic Mariahilfkirche, hundreds of market stalls offer handmade crafts, vintage treasures and quirky collectibles. Whether you’re hunting for lederhosen or antique knick-knacks, this market has something for everyone. After browsing, savour a beer and a bratwurst at the beer garden and channel your inner child with a whirl on the swing carousel or a spin in the bumper cars.
- When: Maidult (spring), Jakobidult (summer), and Kirchweihdult (autumn)
- Where: Mariahilfplatz
- How: Tram 18 to Mariahilfplatz
3. Zamanand & Corso Leopold: Munich's festival duo of art, culture and eco-cred
Twice a year, Ludwigstrasse and Leopoldstrasse in the district of Schwabing transform into a 2.3-kilometre-long festival zone with a fun fusion of art, entertainment and environmental innovation. Starting at Odeonsplatz, the Zamanand Festival (“together” in Bavarian) highlights eco-friendly projects, interactive workshops and a diverse music lineup, from traditional Bavarian tunes to modern hip-hop. It’s a vibrant celebration of community, diversity and sustainability.
Beyond the Siegestor triumphal arch, the party transitions effortlessly into Corso Leopold, where art and culture meet a splash of Italian dolce vita. Stroll through the heart of Schwabing to encounter beer gardens, live performances and family-friendly activities. The festivities stretch all the way to Münchner Freiheit, creating an electric atmosphere that explains why Munich is often called “Italy’s northernmost city.”
Insider tip: Mercure Hotel Muenchen Schwabing puts you within steps of this festival combo, as well as attractions like the English Garden.
- When: May and September
- Where: Ludwigstrasse and Leopoldstrasse
- How: U3, U4, U5 and U6 to Odeonsplatz
4. Tollwood’s festival magic: where music meets art and food
Top billing among Munich’s open-air festivals goes to Tollwood, a giant twice-annual celebration of international art, culture and food suitable for all ages. For four weeks in summer, the southern part of the Olympiapark comes alive with concerts, theatre, circus acts and workshops – many of them free. Explore the "Markt der Ideen" (Market of Ideas) for global crafts and organic goodies or satisfy your food cravings at a veritable United Nations of mobile kitchens serving everything from Bavarian dumplings to African Bantou spinach. Just as much fun is the winter edition of Tollwood, which turns the Oktoberfest grounds on Theresienwiese into a festive pre-Christmas wonderland with sparkling lights, mulled wine and seasonal entertainment.
Top tip: Mercure Hotel Muenchen am Olympiapark is within walking distance of summer Tollwood festival grounds.
- When: June/July & late November to 23 December
- Where: Olympiapark Süd (summer), Theresienwiese (winter)
- How: U3 to Olympiazentrum, U4/U5 to Theresienwiese
5. Lights, camera, action: Filmfest Munich
For over four decades, Filmfest Munich – Germany’s largest summer film festival – has been rolling out the red carpet for cinephiles, filmmakers and industry pros from around the globe. The 10-day cinematic feast has an eclectic line-up of feature films, shorts and documentaries by both established and next-gen talent. Many of the 150 screenings spread across the city, including open-air venues, are followed by Q&A sessions and panel discussions, offering opportunities to meet the creators themselves. And with a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of Hollywood royalty, with past guests including Ralph Fiennes and Emma Thompson.
- When: late June to early July
- Where: various locations
So grab your calendar and start planning – Munich’s vibrant festivals are waiting to add a little extra magic to your trip! Keen to discover more about the beautiful city that's the backdrop to these festivals? Read our guide to Munich's palaces, from world-famous landmarks to hidden gems.
Plan your Munich getaway with Mercure today
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