New Oktoberfest Security Announced – Backpack Ban and Fence Coming

New security measures for Oktoberfest in Munich have been announced, with a ban on backpacks and large bags, as well as a fence which will be erected around the festival grounds.

The organising committee of the event made the decision yesterday in light of the recent security fears in Europe, to ensure a safe event for the expected 6 million visitors.

Oktoberfest Security Measures will include

• A complete ban on bags over 10x15x20 cm or 3 Litres in volume (if you can fit 3 Bavarian-size beers into it, it’s too big)
• All entrances will have extensive security
• People and the items they bring may be checked / searched when entering the festival grounds
• A mobile fence will be erected around the festival grounds to ensure security checks can’t be avoided
• The entrance at the U-Bahnhof Theresienwiese (underground train station) will be changed to redirect festival access via the gates

New security measures will ensure the festival is safe for its 6 million visitors

For the first time, storage lockers will be made available outside of the festival where visitors can store any items not permitted to the festival. 450 security personnel will be stationed at the 13 public entrance gates, with significant delays and line-up times expected during peak times.

A new fence with multiple entrance gates will be erected around the festival 

“We want to do everything we can in terms of security so that the people of Munich and their guests can revel in a relaxed way,” Josef Schmid, Munich’s deputy mayor told reporters. “We looked at all options.” dw.com reports.

Over 6 million beer-loving visitors are expected at the 2016 Oktoberfest in Munich, the 183rd installment of the traditional Bavarian beer festival. With last year’s beer consumption topping out at 7.3 million Liters, visitors will likely prove to be thirsty once again.

You’ll see plenty of these guys at the festival this year.