The Oktoberfest in Munich is the largest folk festival in the world. It attracts millions of visitors every year – and requires enormous logistical efforts in advance. Setting up and dismantling the tents, rides, and supply systems would be unthinkable without modern machinery such as forklifts , rotating telehandlers , cranes, and work platforms .
In this guide, you'll learn how the setup works, which machines are used when, and why nothing works without efficient coordination.
How does the Oktoberfest get set up?
Construction begins in July , more than two months before the opening ceremony. First, the basic structures of the festival tents and halls are built, followed by interior work, rides, and infrastructure. Everything is ready for the opening in September .
Machines that can be used flexibly and work precisely are indispensable – from beer tent halls to Ferris wheels.
Machines at a glance
The following table shows which machines are particularly important in the individual construction phases and what tasks they perform.
| Construction phase | Machines used | Tasks |
|---|---|---|
| Marquees | Cranes, telehandlers, work platforms | Lifting roof structures, positioning supports, assembly work at height |
| rides | Forklifts, roto stackers, special cranes | Transport of heavy parts, precise lifting of carousels and Ferris wheel components |
| Infrastructure | Forklifts, lifting platforms | Laying of cables, construction of supply systems, transport of materials |
| Finishing work in September | Work platforms, cherry pickers | Decoration, interior fittings, final assembly at height |
| Dismantling in November | Cranes, forklifts, work platforms | Dismantling of tent structures, return of rides, clearing of the site |
Safety is our top priority
During setup and dismantling, large areas of Theresienwiese will be closed off. This is the only way to safely move heavy loads and work at heights. Machinery such as work platforms are indispensable because they allow safe access to hard-to-reach areas.
All machines must be inspected regularly, and operators require trained certificates . BIBERGER also offers on-site training in this area.
Dismantling and demolition: everything under time pressure
Immediately after the last day of the Oktoberfest, the dismantling process begins. Cranes lower steel and roof structures, forklifts transport materials, and work platforms secure the work at dizzying heights. Everything has to happen quickly so that the Theresienwiese can be used by the city again in just a few weeks.
Many showmen rely on BIBERGER's digital access control system . It protects machines from unauthorized use and keeps equipment ready for use at all times – a decisive advantage during dismantling.
Conclusion: No Oktoberfest without machines
Whether it's beer tents, the Ferris wheel, or infrastructure, Oktoberfest wouldn't be possible without forklifts, cranes, and work platforms . They ensure efficiency, safety, and punctuality – and ensure that the Wiesn can open in September every year.
With BIBERGER, showmen and event organizers have a reliable partner for rental equipment, training, and digital solutions at their side.
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