Traditional concert with abound 300 musicians
Finally again! On the second Sunday of the Oktoberfest at 11 a.m. sharp, the bands of the large Oktoberfest tents opened the traditional musical highlight of the Oktoberfest at the foot of the Bavaria statue.
Numerous spectators and probably also Petrus were there in better weather than announced to enjoy Bavarian joie de vivre with the around 300 musicians. Peter Inselkammer, host of the Armbrustschützenzelt and spokesman for the Oktoberfest hosts, also thanked the visitors: "Thank you for remaining loyal to us this year after the hardships and bringing back the Oktoberfest.
Clemens Baumgärtner: „Die Leute sind glücklich“
Before Oktoberfest boss Clemens Baumgärtner appeared as conductor, he drew a positive interim balance. "It's the most beautiful Oktoberfest imaginable after two years of the pandemic. The people are happy,” Baumgärtner said happily before waving the baton at the Kaiserjäger March, as he did in 2019.
Anja Berger, the first Wiesn city councilor in Oktoberfest history, took over for the Archduke Albrecht March. “My heart beats for the Oktoberfest. You absolutely have to keep the attitude to life, the light-heartedness, happiness, bright eyes of young and old, because it's important," said Berger, who left no doubt "that women can also do Oktoberfest".
Mayor Dieter Reiter: "Right decision that the Oktoberfest takes place"
Speaking of tradition: As always, the last honorary conductorship was reserved for the mayor of Munich – at the Bavarian parade march. "It was the right decision that the Wiesn takes place," said Mayor Dieter Reiter: "It's not for nothing that it's the largest folk festival in the world. The whole world envies us for this festival and many visit us because of it. Everyone likes the Oktoberfest, so it was right that it was held again after three years.'
What makes the Oktoberfest landlords' square concert so special
Around 300 musicians give a unique Wiesn performance in front of the picturesque backdrop of the Bavaria statue. The band plays the most famous and popular Bavarian marches and songs. There are also guest appearances by Schuhplattler dance troupers, for example.
When all the bands of the Wiesn festival tents have gathered together, the occasion calls for a very special conductor. Traditionally, this role is filled by the mayor and various celebrities who have risen to prominence at the Wiesn. They stand on the podium and swish the conductor’s stick – dressed in traditional costume, of course. Whether they are really conducting the band, or the brass players and drummers keep the timing of their own accord, is a well-kept secret.
For the grand finale, thousands of colorful balloons are released into the sky in front of the Bavaria statue, while the audience sings along to the Bavarian anthem at the top of their voices. If you want a good view, you have to get there early as the best places will soon be taken! If you can’t make it the concert is broadcast on Bavarian television.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Bavaria Statue, Theresienhöhe 16, 80339 München, Germany, Munich