Oktoberfest (mid-September to early October): World's largest beer festival attracts 6+ million visitors. Reserve hotel rooms 6-12 months ahead. Traditional dress encouraged. Arrive at tents before 10am weekends to secure tables. Family-friendly despite beer focus - Tuesdays designated family days with reduced prices.
Christmas Markets (late November-December 24): Multiple markets across city, largest at Marienplatz. Krampuslauf parade features Alpine tradition. Christkindlmarkt offers handcrafted gifts, roasted almonds, Glühwein (mulled wine), and festive atmosphere.
Starkbierfest (Strong Beer Festival, March): Two-week celebration of high-alcohol Lenten beers at various beer halls. More authentic and less crowded than Oktoberfest.
Tollwood Festival (summer & winter): Alternative cultural festival featuring world music, theater, international cuisine, and market stalls. Summer edition at Olympiapark, winter at Theresienwiese.
Munich Film Festival (late June-early July): Germany's second-largest film festival showcasing international cinema and premieres.
Auer Dult (April, July, October): Traditional fair at Mariahilfplatz with antiques, crafts, rides, and local specialties - Munich's oldest public festival.
Long Night of Music (May): Over 100 venues across Munich host simultaneous concerts spanning all genres. Single ticket grants access to all performances.
FC Bayern Munich Football Season (August-May): Bundesliga matches at Allianz Arena create city-wide excitement. Champions League nights especially atmospheric.
National Holidays: New Year's Day, Good Friday, Easter Monday, May 1 (Labor Day), Ascension Day, Whit Monday, Corpus Christi, German Unity Day (Oct 3), All Saints' Day (Nov 1), Christmas holidays. Most shops and attractions closed.