Oktoberfest Hannover 2026: Dates and Program at the Schützenplatz

Welcome to Oktoberfest Hannover 2026 at the Schützenplatz

From September 25 to October 11, 2026, the Schützenplatz in Hannover once again turns into one of the largest folk festivals in northern Germany. Oktoberfest Hannover, often called Herbstvergnügen locally, is widely seen as one of the best known alternatives to the Munich Oktoberfest and takes place on the very same grounds that host the famous Schützenfest each summer.

Highlights and Attractions at Oktoberfest Hannover

• Large festival tents with Bavarian live music, brass bands and a lively Wiesn atmosphere
• Numerous rides for the whole family, from thrill rides to classic fairground attractions
• Three big 360 degree firework displays lighting up the Hannover sky every Friday from 9:45 pm
• A family day every Wednesday with noticeable discounts on many rides
• A festive lantern parade for children with live musical accompaniment
• Hearty Wiesn style food and northern German specialties at many stalls
• Access to the grounds is free, payment happens directly at the rides and inside the tents

Program and Schedule: What to Expect in 2026

Oktoberfest Hannover opens Wednesdays and Thursdays from 3:00 pm to 11:00 pm, Fridays and Saturdays from 3:00 pm until midnight, and Sundays and public holidays from 2:00 pm to 11:00 pm. The grounds are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Inside the tents, rotating bands keep the program going well into the evening, while the fairground itself offers rides, food stalls and family activities throughout the day.

Tickets and Admission for Oktoberfest Hannover

Entry to Oktoberfest Hannover is free, there is no general admission ticket. Visitors only pay for individual rides, food and drinks, and for table reservations in the tents if desired. Parking directly on the Schützenplatz is available for a daily fee. The fireworks on the three designated Fridays can also be watched free of charge from the grounds.

Visitor Tips: Travel and Accommodation in Hannover

• The Schützenplatz sits close to the city center and is easy to reach by tram and several bus lines
• Visitors arriving by car will find parking directly on site as well as nearby, for example near the local arena
• A weekday visit tends to be more relaxed, while Fridays and Saturdays draw much larger crowds
• Booking accommodation in Hannover early is advisable, especially around the fireworks weekends
• Bringing some cash for rides and food stalls is a good idea, even though many now accept card payment