The traditional tapping at Oktoberfest: O'zapft is!

Every year, millions of visitors arrive in Munich to experience the world’s largest beer festival. But Oktoberfest doesn’t officially begin until one legendary moment: the tapping of the first beer barrel. Known as the "Anstich" in german, this ceremony is the symbolic and festive start to the 16–18 days of beer, Bavarian culture, and celebration.

The history behind the tapping ceremony

The tradition of the ceremonial tapping (Anstich) began in 1950, when then-Mayor Thomas Wimmer tapped the first keg of beer in the Schottenhamel Tent, one of the oldest tents at Oktoberfest. With two swift blows of the mallet, he declared, “O’zapft is!”—Bavarian dialect for “It’s tapped!”—and a tradition was born.

Since then, every Mayor of Munich has continued the ritual, and no beer is served in any tent until the first keg is officially opened.

How it works

• The ceremony takes place at 12:00 noon sharp on Oktoberfest’s opening Saturday.
• The Mayor of Munich, accompanied by high-ranking Bavarian politicians and dignitaries, enters the Schottenhamel tent.
• Surrounded by media and eager guests, the Mayor hammers a wooden tap into the first barrel of beer.
• Once tapped, the Mayor shouts: “O’zapft is!”
• This is followed by a 12-gun salute on the steps of Bavaria’s Ruhmeshalle, signaling that beer can now be served in all other tents.

Beer tapping records

Over the years, how many blows of the mallet the Mayor needs has become part of the fun and a matter of pride. The fewer the blows, the better!

The record is just 2 blows—a feat achieved by several mayors, most recently by Mayor Dieter Reiter, who has become known for his confident and efficient tapping style.

On the other hand, some mayors have needed up to 19 blows, making for a much more entertaining start to the Oktoberfest.

If you want a guaranteed seat and a traditional experience on Opening Day, check out tents like the Festzelt Tradition in the Oide Wiesn. The atmosphere is more relaxed, deeply rooted in Bavarian heritage, and full of charm!

See what’s available for tours on this years Oktoberfest’s  Opening Day: September 20th, 2025!