The Schottenhamel Tent at Oktoberfest: A Must Visit in 2025

By German Outfits

on Jul 25, 2025

Munich's Most Iconic Festivalzelt is a place of celebration, tradition, and style.

You can't miss the Schottenhamel Festzelt if you're going to Oktoberfest in Munich 2025. This legendary beer tent, known as the "heart" of the festival is where Oktoberfest begins. It's also where history and party come together like no other.

In this in-depth guide, German Outfits shares everything you need to know about the Schottenhamel Tent, including what makes it special, when to go, how to dress, and how to make the most of your experience--starting, of course, with the perfect outfit.

What is the Schottenhamel Tent?

The Schottenhamel Festzelt has been one of the most popular and oldest beer tents during Munich's Oktoberfest. The tent can accommodate over 10 000 guests (6,00 inside + 4,00 outside). It combines Bavarian tradition and youthful energy with modern flair.

A Tent with History

Since 1867, the Schottenhamel Family has been a part of Oktoberfest. This tent is not only a venue but also a cultural institution. Munich's Lord mayor taps the first beer keg and declares: "O'zapft ist!" - It is tapped! "

This ceremonial moment opens Oktoberfest each year.

Why the Schottenhamel Tent is a Must Visit in 2025

The Oktoberfest tents are 14 in number, but Schottenhamel is unique because of several reasons.

1. It hosts the opening ceremony

This is the moment when Oktoberfest begins. The first keg is tapped at noon in front of the media and a crowd cheering.

Only guests invited to the event can enter the tent. The tent will open up to the public after the taping.

2. Young, Fun Crowd

Schottenhamel, on the other hand, is a tent that attracts younger crowds and tourists. It is a favorite among students and locals for its lively atmosphere.

3. Authentic Bavarian Decor & Beer

The tent is decorated with traditional elements: wooden beams, garlands hanging from the ceiling, and a sea checkered shirts, Dirndls and other clothing. What about the beer? It's brewed by Spaten-Franziskaner-Brau, one of Munich's six official Oktoberfest breweries.

4. Massive Seating & Great Music

There are enough tables for over 10,000 people, so arrive early to ensure you get one. The tent will feature traditional live music by day, and more upbeat music at night.

What about dancing on benches? This is totally acceptable.

Oktoberfest 2025 Dates & Schottenhamel Highlights

Opening Day: Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025 - Mayor's keg tapping at 12 PM
Festival Duration: Sept. 20 - Oct. 5, 2025
Location : Theresienwiese in Munich - Tent No. 6 on the official map
Beer Served: Spaten Oktoberfestbier (6.3% ABV)

What to wear to the Schottenhamel Tent

you must look the part if you are visiting this legendary tent. Oktoberfest fashion is a tradition, not a gimmick. At Schottenhamel where history meets youth celebration, wearing authentic Bavarian clothes shows style.

For Men

Lederhosen (real leather)
Embroidered suspenders
White or checkered shirt
Wool socks, Haferl shoes, and Alpine hat

German outfits

For Women

Dress (mini, midi or long) Dirndl
Coordinated shirt with apron
Comfortable shoes (block heels or flats).
Optional: floral crown, jewelry, shawl

Buy Authentic Dirndls German outfits

Pro tip: Do you want to blend in and not stand out? Avoid Halloween costumes. German outfits is the only brand trusted by Oktoberfest goers in Europe and America.

How to Get a Table in Schottenhamel by 2025

It takes a lot of strategy to get a good seat in any Oktoberfest tent, but especially at a tent like Schottenhamel.

How to be a Table-Successful Chef

Arrive Early Before noon at weekends or before 3 PM during the week.
Avoid the peak hours : Saturday and Friday evenings are packed.
Reserve your table in advance Large groups (eight to ten people) are able to reserve a table directly on the Schottenhamel Website. However, bookings open months in advance.
Be polite : You can sometimes join smaller groups around half-empty table if you ask nicely.

Remember : Beer can only be brought to you if there is a chair!

Schottenhamel tent for U.S. and International visitors

Are you from the USA or Canada?

Schottenhamel is a popular choice for first-time Oktoberfests in the United States because of its friendly atmosphere and mixture of locals and foreigners. Book your flights, hotels and outfits in advance.

Are you traveling from Austria, Switzerland or the EU?

Take the train to Munich and arrive in style. Shipping your outfit to you from German Clothing can be done quickly and easily if you are already in the EU.

What's On The Menu?

Schottenhamel offers classic Bavarian cuisine in addition to great beer:

Half Roast Chicken (Hendl).. - A must-have
Giant Bavarian pretzels
Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle)
Vegetarian Options & Salads
Desserts and apple strudel

Pair your meal with a cold Mass (1-liter mug) of Spaten Oktoberfestbier--served by smiling waitresses in Dirndls.

Make it Instagram-Worthy

Schottenhamel is the best place to capture Oktoberfest moments . Its festive decor, huge beer mugs and energetic crowd are just a few of its highlights.

Photo Ops: on the benches or in front of tents, or by clinking glasses
Reels/TikToks from live bands singing along and dancing moments
German Outfits group shots of matching outfits

Want to stand out from the crowd? Co-ordinate outfits from GermanOutfits.com with your group for the ultimate Oktoberfest Photo Session!

Last Thoughts: Schottenhamel should be at the top of your Oktoberfest 2025 list

The Schottenhamel Tent, is not just a place for drinking--it is the heartbeat of Oktoberfest. The keg-tapping, the youth atmosphere, the authentic beer and the Bavarian spirit make this the perfect place to begin your festival experience.

To truly be a part of the party, you will need more than just a table and a ticket. You'll also need to wear the right clothes.