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Oktoberfest 2025: A Mixed Bag of Millions, Waste, and Safety Concerns

Oktoberfest 2025 saw record-breaking attendance but also record-breaking waste and sexual offenses. Can the festival adapt to meet these challenges?

Here we can see crowd. Background there are buildings, hoardings and trees.
Here we can see crowd. Background there are buildings, hoardings and trees.

Oktoberfest 2025: A Mixed Bag of Millions, Waste, and Safety Concerns

The Oktoberfest 2025 faced temporary closure due to an explosives warning, later deemed precautionary. It ended with mixed results, attracting 6.5 million visitors but also raising concerns about waste, tradition, and modernity.

The festival generated 1.57 billion euros, with visitors spending up to 300 euros a day. However, price increases led to social exclusion and poor working conditions for staff. Environmental concerns were raised with 93 tons of waste on-site and 55 tons in surrounding streets.

The Oktoberfest has a history of terrorism, including a 1980 attack that injured hundreds. In 2025, 72 sexual offenses were reported, including five cases of rape, a 150 percent increase. Political mistakes in dealing with constant overcrowding and sexual offenses need to be addressed.

The Oktoberfest 2025 highlighted issues of waste management, social exclusion, and sexual offenses. Despite these challenges, it attracted millions of visitors and contributed significantly to the local economy. Addressing these issues will be crucial for future festivals.

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