The Oktoberfest beer festival in Munich, Germany, remained closed on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, following a police operation linked to explosives found in a residential building in the city’s north. Authorities confirmed the festival grounds would stay shut until at least 5:00 pm local time (1500 GMT).
According to Munich police, the incident stemmed from a family dispute in which the building was deliberately set on fire. One person was confirmed dead, while another was reported missing but not believed to be in danger. Special forces were deployed after booby traps were discovered at the scene.
Police emphasized that investigations were ongoing and that possible connections to other locations in Munich, including the Theresienwiese—the site of Oktoberfest—were being examined.
As a precaution, the festival, which began on September 20 and is scheduled to run until October 5, temporarily suspended entry to visitors. Organizers confirmed the delay on the official Oktoberfest website, citing security concerns.
The Oktoberfest is the world’s largest folk festival, attracting millions of visitors each year. While authorities assured the public there was no immediate danger, the temporary closure highlights the high-security environment surrounding this year’s celebrations.
