A Local’s Guide to Munich’s Best Beer Festivals (Besides Oktoberfest!)

When people think of Munich and beer, Oktoberfest immediately comes to mind – even Oktoberfest is actually not a beer festival. And while it’s an incredible experience, it’s far from the only festival where beer plays a huge role! In fact, Munich is a city that celebrates its beer culture all year round, with festivals that are just as fun—sometimes even more authentic—than the world-famous Oktoberfest or Wiesn as Oktoberfest is dubbed by locals.

Whether you’re looking for a strong beer to warm you up in March, a spring festival with Oktoberfest vibes, or a cozy winter market with craft brews, Munich has a beer festival for every season. Plus, many of these events attract more locals than tourists, meaning you’ll get a true taste of Bavarian culture—without the massive tourist-crowds and sky-high prices.

So, grab your Maßkrug (liter-sized beer mug) and your appetite for hearty food and adventure—here are Munich’s best beer festivals beyond Oktoberfest!

Starkbierfest (spring) – The "Strong Beer" Festival

Did you know that Munich has a beer festival where the beer is stronger (a lot stronger) than at Oktoberfest? Welcome to Starkbierfest, the Strong Beer Festival, held every spring during Lent (usually late February to early April).

This tradition dates back to the 1600s, when Paulaner monks brewed a special beer to sustain themselves during Lent. The result? A dark, malty beer with an alcohol content of 7-12%—rich, smooth, sweeter than regular beer, and therefore dangerously drinkable. Today, all Munich breweries like Paulaner, Augustiner, and Löwenbräu carry on this tradition, serving beers that pack a serious punch.

Unlike Oktoberfest, Starkbierfest is more intimate and authentically Bavarian. Expect boisterous singing, traditional music, and locals in Dirndl and Lederhosen raising their glasses in hearty toasts. But be warned againthis beer is no joke. One liter of Starkbier can hit you harder than two at Oktoberfest, so pace yourself! Especially if you are not used to German or European beers.

Where to enjoy Starkbierfest?

  • Nockherberg (officially: Paulaner am Nockherberg)– The biggest and most traditional Starkbierfest, with live music and liters of Salvator, Paulaner’s legendary strong beer. Held at the famous Nockherberg, a former beer cellar of the Paulaner brewery. This is also the place where the first barrel of the Starkbierfest is tapped.
  • Augustiner Keller – A traditional beer hall experience with locals, but also increasingly tourists, enjoying Maximator, Augustiner’s potent strong beer.
  • Löwenbräukeller – Known for its lively atmosphere and their Triumphator, a strong beer that definitely lives up to its name.

The best part of Starkbierfest is, that it nearly lasts one whole month.

If you want to learn more about Starkbiuerfest (strong beer festival) and deep dive when and where to go, I recommend reading my article Starkbierfest in Munich – Where Beer Gets Serious.

Frühlingsfest (April/May) – The "Little Oktoberfest"

If you love the idea of Oktoberfest but prefer fewer crowds, milder weather, and a more relaxed vibe, Frühlingsfest is perfect for you. Often called „Oktoberfest’s little sister,“ this spring festival takes place on Theresienwiese—the same grounds as the Oktoberfest. It is way smaller than Oktoberfest with only three beer tents, but still you can fist about 100 stalls and rides.

 

With its traditional beer tents, amusement rides, and festive atmosphere, it’s like a mini-Oktoberfest, but without the craziness. Major breweries set up tents where you can enjoy Bavarian beer, hearty food, and live music. The beer gardens of the beer tents are the perfect place to soak up the spring sunshine with a cold drink in hand.

A special highlight is the Riesenflohmarkt (Giant Flea Market), one of the largest in Bavaria. It’s a paradise for treasure hunters, offering everything from vintage Dirndls and Lederhosen to antique beer steins, but also other items you can find on flea markets. If you love discovering unique souvenirs, this is the place to be!

The Frühlingsfest is also the place for a classic car meeting where you can see enjoy classic cars from old Volkswagen beetles to 1970s Porsche’s and US Pony Cars.

The festival ends with a spectacular fireworks show, lighting up the night sky over Munich—a magical way to celebrate spring in Bavaria.

Kocherlball (July) – Munich’s Most Charming Tradition

Kocherlball is a festival like no other. It’s not just about beer—it’s about history, tradition, and dancing at the break of dawn.

Back in the 19th century, Munich’s servants, cooks, and house staff (called „Kocherl“ in Bavarian) had to work all day, so they held their own dance parties before sunrise. Today, thousands of locals gather at the Chinesischer Turm in the English Garden to keep the tradition alive.

Picture this: Thousands of people in historical Bavarian outfits, dancing to live folk music as the morning mist rises over the park. The atmosphere is joyful, relaxed, and completely unique—a true glimpse into Munich’s past.

Even though it’s only 6 AM, beer is served, along with classic Bavarian breakfast dishes like Weißwurst, Brezn, and Obazda (cheese spread). But unlike other festivals, Kocherlball isn’t about heavy drinking—it’s about community, music, and tradition. If you want to experience authentic Munich without the tourist crowds, this is an absolute must

Winter Tollwood (November–December) – The Alternative Beer Festival

If you visit Munich in winter, you might miss Oktoberfest—but you’ll get to experience Tollwood, a festival that combines beer, culture, and Christmas magic.

Held at Theresienwiese, Tollwood is a mix of Christmas market, beer festival, and art event. Instead of huge beer tents, you’ll find cozy wooden lodges, craft beer stalls, and international food vendors serving everything from Bavarian delicacies to exotic street food.

 

One of the festival’s highlights is the Silvesterparty (New Year’s Eve Party), where thousands of people gather under a giant circus tent to dance, drink, and celebrate the New Year. If you want an alternative winter beer festival with a cozy, artistic atmosphere, Tollwood is perfect

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