Oktoberfest: Queer Parties and Last-Minute Places to Stay
It’s no secret, that queer travelers love Munich. The city is a safe, laid-back place where we can be ourselves without having to code-switch or be fearful. It also helps that Germans are very sexually liberal, so we are free to flaunt our kinks and let our freak flags fly, especially in Glockenbachviertel, the local gayborhood.
Another draw for LGBTQ tourists happens to be Munich’s world-famous Oktoberfest, attracting tens of thousands of queer visitors annually. It’s something we share with our straight brethren who equally come out in droves to celebrate this annual tradition.
Taking place from September 17 through October 3, Oktoberfest is the world’s largest fair with more than 5 million people attending each year. Besides the food and beer, the festival is full of traditional Bavarian music, dance parties, open-air performances, parades, vendor tents, carnival rides, a shooting competition, and lots of traditional German outfits.
While queer attendees are more than welcome to the general festivities, we do have our own celebration on the first Sunday of the festival called the Rosa Weisn Oktoberfest. The community gathers in the Bräurosl tent for some pop music and flirting all while dressed in both fetish gear and lederhosen. This event has grown massively popular over the years and has now expanded to include other gay-themed parties throughout the festival (see website for details).
All that being said, it should come as no surprise that Munich is positioned to be the hottest destination to visit this fall as Oktoberfest is poised to make its triumphant return after a two-year hiatus.
The announcement has an unprecedented number of U.S. travelers flocking overseas to experience the marquee event once again. According to Expedia, flight searches to Munich have increased 180% over the last year with Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York serving as the top hubs for these searches.
Hotel searches are also surging. Hotels.com reports a 70% increase in average hotel rates in Munich this September compared to the summer months. While there is still availability, travelers are encouraged to lock in accommodations now before they sell out.
Below we’ve rounded up a few hotels in Munich that are still showing availability for the dates of Oktoberfest at all price points:
relexa hotel München: Within walking distance to Oktoberfest, this hotel is also a great choice for solo female or lesbian travelers as it offers a Ladies’ Executive Floor catering to women only. This is probably the best value you will get for the location. Book fast!
Eurostars Book Hotel: A 12-minute walk separates this ultra-modern, yet elegant hotel from all the festivities. Peak pricing is in full effect for the event but is still more affordable than most. Grab a buddy and split the cost!
Le Meridien München: A premium price for a premium location for sure, this classically stylish property is but half a mile from Oktoberfest. If convenience is king for you then this might be a good choice.
Holiday Inn Express Munich City West: Probably the most affordable option available at this late date; these simple but ample accommodations are 1.5 miles from the Theresienwiese fairgrounds.
Safe travels and Prost to a joyous Oktoberfest and harvest season! For more information on Oktoberfest and to plan your trip click here.
