Overview

• Stuttgart’s mayor Frank Nopper is set to tap the first keg at 16:00, with state leaders Winfried Kretschmann and Thomas Strobl expected at the opening ceremony.
• Organizers forecast more than four million visitors through October 12 after an official 4.6 million last year, with turnout dependent on weather.
• Beer prices start at €14.40 per Maß, with some tents just under €15, generally below this year’s Munich Oktoberfest range of €14.50 to €15.80.
• Security plans feature visible and plainclothes police patrols and the Wasenboje help point for women and girls, which opens daily from 13:00.
• New attractions include the Evolution flight carousel and the Loop Fighter, entry to the grounds and tents remains free, and table reservations are still easier to obtain than in Munich.