Every fall, Munich's Theresienwiese transforms into one of the world's largest folk festivals—Oktoberfest. First held in 1810 as a royal wedding celebration, it now draws some 6 million revellers over the span of over two weeks. The scale is astonishing: around 420,000 square metres packed with 14 grand beer tents, vast quantities of pretzels, sausages and ginger-bread hearts. Beyond the brews and brats, the fairground is a carnival in its own, teeming with roller coasters, games and thrill rides like the Wellenflug swing carousel, offering sweeping views of the festivities and Munich skyline. This year, the Munich celebration starts today and runs through 5 October.

But you don't have to fly across the Atlantic to experience Oktoberfest. Join in the Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, Canada's Greatest Bavarian Festival, taking place from 26 September to 18 October. Over four lively weekends, this region comes alive with traditional Bavarian music, steins of cold beer, sizzling schnitzels and a warm atmosphere. Enjoy Festhallen, large halls run by local German clubs celebrating Baden-Württemberg heritage, or visit Willkommen Platz, the bustling festival square in downtown Kitchener from 10–12 October 2025. Whether dancing, drinking or sampling German food, Onkel Hans and Tante Frieda will always save a seat for you.