So far, January in Munich has mainly been characterized by snow chaos and icy temperatures. Even though we can make the most of the winter weather by tobogganing and skiing, it’s also worth taking a look at the 2026 calendar of events. The highlight in Munich is, of course, the Oktoberfest! After last year’s huge success, we’ll have to be patient until it’s “O zapft is” again. But to tide us over while we wait, we can also experience the Oktoberfest atmosphere in winter – at the Oide Wiesn Bürgerball.
The Deutsches Theater becomes a festival meadow
On 23 January 2026, the Deutsches Theater will once again be transformed into the center of Bavarian joie de vivre. The Oide Wiesn Bürgerball is an evening of dancing that awakens the anticipation of the Bavarian ball season. And the promise that summer and the next Oktoberfest are not so far away.
You can dress up in your traditional costumes on this evening. Evening dresses and tuxedos are also allowed, after all, the Bürgerball is still a ball. But it is mainly dirndls and lederhosen that are worn. The whole house becomes a stage!
Tickets and highlights that you can’t miss
The brass music of Wolfgang Grünbauer and his Oktoberfest musicians reigns in the main hall of the Deutsches Theater. Not only is there dancing here, but also a celebration of Bavarian customs. Those who like it wilder can move to the bar area, where the Cagey Strings show with rock’n’roll and party hits that lederhosen also go well with electric guitars.
The midnight show is an absolute must. Traditionally, the Narrhalla does the honors and brings Munich’s carnival glamour, including the prince and princess, directly to the stage. Bavarian conviviality meets the glamor of the carnival season.
The Bürgerball is aptly named. With ticket prices starting at around 27 euros (strolling ticket), it is one of the most accessible balls in the city. However, if you want a seat in the hall and the special ball menu, you should book your seat in good time. This is easy to do via the website. The motto “From Lederhos’n to Bürgertracht” makes it much easier to bridge the gap until the tapping ceremony in September.