Oktoberfest 2026: Munich police report largely peaceful midpoint

The Munich police have released a mid-point report for the 2026 Oktoberfest, describing the festival as largely peaceful despite a rise in total police interventions, which reached 936 by September 27. While the number of incidents is higher than in 2025, authorities noted that crime levels remain moderate relative to the millions of visitors.

Specific violent incidents were reported, including 49 cases of dangerous bodily harm, 11 of which involved the use of beer mugs. Sexual offenses and bodily harm numbers remained consistent with previous years.

Individual incidents of violence also occurred, including a stabbing in a festival tent where a 32-year-old British visitor was injured in the arm during a dispute, and a separate case where a man was accused of sexually harassing women before a physical altercation ensued. Additionally, authorities continue to seize knives and similar prohibited items from attendees.