Munich’s Lord Mayor Dieter Reiter (SPD) confirmed on Wednesday afternoon that the Oktoberfest grounds will reopen at 5:30 pm following a day of intense police operations and security concerns. The decision brought relief to festival organizers and visitors after hours of uncertainty.
Night of violence in Munich’s Lerchenau district
The large-scale police operation was triggered by a violent incident in the northern district of Lerchenau during the early morning hours. According to police reports, several explosions and gunshots were heard around 4:40 am. A residential building caught fire, and multiple cars in the surrounding streets were set ablaze.
Investigators believe the suspect killed his father, seriously injured his 81-year-old mother and his 21-year-old daughter, and then set the family home on fire. He later took his own life near the Lerchenauer See. The victims were transported to hospital with injuries. Authorities discovered explosives on the suspect’s body and found booby traps, including grenades with tripwires, inside the house.
Police uncover possible Oktoberfest threat
Shortly before noon, Bavaria’s special police unit (SEK) stormed the suspect’s apartment in the nearby Starnberg district. The property was secured and checked for further explosives. During the search, police discovered a letter that included a vague threat referencing the Oktoberfest.
As a precaution, the festival grounds remained closed throughout the morning and early afternoon. Twenty-five sniffer dogs were brought in from across Bavaria to sweep the site for explosives.
Mayor gives the green light
By late afternoon, Mayor Dieter Reiter announced via Instagram that police had declared the Wiesn safe: “The police have just informed me that there is no danger in resuming the Oktoberfest. The festival grounds will reopen for all visitors from 5:30 pm.”
The decision was met with relief from the Oktoberfest hosts. Peter Inselkammer, spokesman for the Wiesn landlords, said: “The safety of our guests comes first. It was a heavy moment when we had to leave the grounds earlier today. We are glad everything is under control now.”
Christian Schottenhamel, another well-known festival host, added: “We are happy that the Wiesn can continue. It is the most beautiful folk festival in the world, and we want to celebrate it together safely.”
Festival continues under heavy security
While the Wiesn has reopened, authorities remain on high alert. Additional police units will stay on site throughout the evening. For festivalgoers, the incident is a reminder of how quickly celebrations can turn into uncertainty — and how crucial safety measures are to keeping traditions like Oktoberfest alive.
