Oktoberfest servers face heavy physical strain as Munich expects 6.7 million visitors

Working in the beer tents of Munich's Oktoberfest places heavy physical demands on service staff. According to figures reported by the Munich newspaper tz, waitstaff walk an average of roughly 20,000 steps per shift. With a single filled beer mug weighing 2.3 kilograms, experienced servers carry peaks of nearly 30 kilograms at a time through crowded aisles.

To handle the workload, 24-year-old server Celina uses custom-fitted earplugs and wrist supports to prevent long-term joint and hearing damage, while focusing on sleep and rest before the opening day.

“That takes an incredible toll on the tendons and joints. I know waitresses who have such problems with their wrists because they didn't wear wrist bandages.”

Organizers project that Oktoberfest 2026 will generate an economic value of around 1.6 billion euros and draw approximately 6.7 million visitors. Around 70% of out-of-town guests stay overnight in Munich, with hotels, taxis, retailers, and gastronomy sharing in the revenue. International attendees represent 21% of total visitors, led by travelers from the United States, Italy, and Great Britain.