Munich’s world-famous Oktoberfest has been struck by a second tragedy this year. Early on Friday morning, a man was found dead behind the iconic Ferris wheel on the festival grounds.
Police have confirmed the discovery, which comes less than a week after another death shocked the fairground community.
The discovery on Friday morning
According to police, a Wiesn employee came across the lifeless body around 6 a.m. in the area of the showmen’s caravans near the Ferris wheel.
Emergency services were immediately called, but a doctor at the scene could only pronounce the man dead.
Authorities said the deceased was believed to be a middle-aged worker from one of the traveling show businesses operating at the Oktoberfest. The exact cause of death remains under investigation.
Police investigation
Munich’s criminal police have taken charge of the case. A spokesperson stressed that no signs of external involvement or foul play have been found so far.
The investigation will continue, but at present officials assume the death was the result of natural or medical causes.
A second death during this year’s festival
This is not the first fatality connected to the Wiesn in 2025. Shortly before the festival officially opened, a 71-year-old showwoman was found dead in her caravan.
Investigators concluded she had died following a medical emergency, with no suspicion of third-party involvement.
The two deaths have cast a somber mood over the usually festive atmosphere at the Theresienwiese, where millions of visitors from around the world gather every year.
The festival continues
Despite the incidents, the Oktoberfest remains open to the public. On Friday, the fairground gates opened as scheduled at 10 a.m.
Organizers emphasized that safety measures are in place and that the festival will continue until October 5.
While the Oktoberfest is best known for its lively beer tents, Bavarian traditions, and carnival rides, the two tragic deaths have reminded visitors of the realities behind the scenes.
For the workers and families who keep the world’s largest Volksfest running, this year’s Wiesn has brought not only celebration but also grief.
