The first documented mention of Munich dates back to June 14, 1158, meaning the city is now 868 years old. This milestone will be celebrated in style in 2026: with the city’s birthday and a weekend packed with events. Young and old alike can look forward to two fun-filled days packed with all kinds of experiences, from the stage to the beer garden. In addition to plenty of music and delicious treats, you can expect a variety of hands-on activities and, above all, a good time!
A Festival of the Neighborhoods
As every year, Munich’s City Birthday once again has a theme: “A Festival of the Neighborhoods.” The festivities will take place from June 13 to 14 in the Old Town, centered around the stage and beer garden at Marienplatz. The focus here will be on music, with several groups performing for you daily and the town hall’s carillon ringing three times a day. Even more music awaits you at Rindermarkt on the Irish-Bavarian Stage, where you’ll be treated to Scottish and Irish traditions.
At Odeonsplatz, artisans set up their village and showcase their skills. Those interested can learn about apprenticeship opportunities here and even try their hand at the crafts themselves. On-site, you’ll also find authentic Oktoberfest fun as you take a spin on the rides and sample sweet and savory treats. On Sunday, there’s also a Weißwurst brunch in the beer garden at Marienplatz, where you can get a Weißwurst for just €1.50 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Afterward, you can browse the arts and crafts market around Marienplatz and discover new treasures.
Active City Birthday
For the 868th City Birthday, you can look forward not only to performances, delicacies, and fun, but also to many hands-on activities. At the Alter Hof, there’s a colorful program for children where they can learn more about history through interactive games or explore their own sense of smell by making scented flowers. On Saturday and Sunday, free guided tours of the Old Town will also take place every hour on the hour between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m., giving you a chance to get to know Munich even better. If you already know the Old Town well enough, you can instead take a tour of the construction site for the 2nd main line.
If you’d rather hit the dance floor, join the workshops at the Old Town Hall, where the ballroom transforms into a dance floor. No prior experience is necessary, and you can come without a partner. Last but not least, you can mint your own commemorative coin at the State Coin Collection to remember the festivities.
📍 Location: Sendlinger Straße to Odeonsplatz
📅 Dates: Sat, June 13, 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. & Sun, June 14, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
💶 Price information: Free
