When autumn arrives in Vienna, locals and visitors alike make their way to the Kaiserwiese in the Prater for the city's very own Oktoberfest – the Wiener Kaiser Wiesn. From 25 September to 12 October 2025, the green lawn beneath the famous Giant Ferris Wheel transforms into a buzzing mix of beer tents, alpine huts, brass bands, and plenty of dancing. Unlike Munich's huge Oktoberfest, Vienna's version feels more relaxed and a little more authentic – less about giant crowds and more about celebrating Austrian traditions with food, music, and a good Maß (that's a one-litre beer).

What to Expect

• Three big festival tents with live folk music, DJs, and party bands every evening.
• Five alpine huts (Almen) serving regional food, local wines, and schnapps.
• An open-air Wiesn Dorf, free to explore during the day, with craft stalls, food stands, and cultural performances.
• Special themed nights – from student parties to the inclusive Rosa Wiesn.
• A mix of visitors: families in the daytime, groups of friends in the evening, and plenty of locals just coming for the atmosphere.

Food & Drink

Expect all the Austrian classics:

• Wiener Schnitzel served on wooden boards.
• Brettljause (cold platters with meats, cheese, and pickles).
• Sausages, pretzels, strudels – and of course, litres of beer.

You'll also find Austrian wine and schnapps flowing freely in the huts, making it a broader culinary experience than Munich's beer-only focus.

Tickets & Entry

• Daytime (from 11:30 am): Free entry! Perfect for strolling, eating, and enjoying live folk performances.
• Evenings (from 6:30 pm): You'll need a ticket for the main tents if you want to join the party. Tickets sell out fast, so book early.

The huts and open-air areas often stay lively even without a ticket – handy if you just want to soak up the vibe without committing to the full tent experience.

“Head to the huts if you don't have a ticket – the food, music, and late-night atmosphere are just as good, and often that's where the real party happens after the tents close.” - Seb · Vienna local

What to Wear

Dirndl and Lederhosen aren't compulsory, but they're part of the fun. If you don't have traditional clothing, don't worry – plenty of locals just wear jeans and a nice shirt. The important thing is to bring good shoes (you'll be standing and dancing a lot) and maybe a jacket for when the evening gets chilly.

Why Go?

Vienna's Oktoberfest is a cosier, more local alternative to Munich's. It's big enough to feel like a festival, but small enough that you won't get lost in the chaos. Whether you're here for the food, the music, or just to clink glasses under the glow of the Riesenrad, the Wiener Kaiser Wiesn is one of autumn's must-do experiences. The Wiener Kaiser Wiesn is just one reason to visit Vienna in autumn. From open-air concerts to cosy wine taverns and seasonal markets, there's always something happening in the city.