Munich Spring Festival
April-May
Often referred to as Oktoberfest’s little sister, Munich’s Spring Festival brings beer tents, fairground rides and live music to the open spaces of Theresienwiese. It’s on a much smaller scale than its bigger sibling, but still offers the chance of a rollicking good time.
City Foundation Festival
June
Munich has been in existence in one form or another since the eight century, although its official “birthday” is 14 June 1158. The date is celebrated with two days of festivities in and around Marienplatz, with craft markets, dancers and children’s activities.
Munich Opera Festival
June
A programme of world-class opera and chamber music held across various city venues, the Munich Opera Festival is run by the Bavarian State Opera, which always uses the occasion to stage premieres. It’s common for the schedule to feature certain composers prominently.
Auer Dult
Various dates
Taking place three times a year on Mariahilfplatz (usually in April-May, July-August and October), the Auer Dult events are ostensibly markets – porcelain, crockery and ceramics are all sold in high quantities – although it’s just as popular for its folk festivities, with fairground rides and Bavarian food stalls.
Oktoberfest
September/October
The beer festival to end all beer festivals. Always kicking off in September (despite its name), Oktoberfest is a 16-day knees-up with a series of vast beer tents, food stalls, musical performances and other entertainment.