Archive · 20 Sep 2026
Why Oktoberfest Was Moved From October to September
Oktoberfest was not always held mainly in September.
In its early years, the festival took place in October.
In 1872, organisers moved it earlier to September.
September usually has more daylight than October.
It also tends to have warmer weather.
The festival has stayed in September since then.
Even though it begins in September, it traditionally ends on the first Sunday of October.
This timing explains why it is still called Oktoberfest.
Oktoberfest was held in October during its early decades.
Organisers moved the festival to September in 1872.
The change was intended to provide longer daylight hours.
Warmer September weather was another reason for the move.
Oktoberfest traditionally ends on the first Sunday of October.
- Who
- Oktoberfest organisers made the timing change.
- What
- The festival was moved from October to September.
- When
- The move happened in 1872; the festival was held in October during its early decades.
- Why
- Organisers wanted longer daylight hours and warmer weather.
- Original timing
- October during Oktoberfest's early decades
- Timing change
- The festival moved to September in 1872
- Reason for change
- Longer daylight hours and warmer weather
- Current traditional timing
- September, ending on the first Sunday of October
- Name explanation
- The name reflects the festival's original October timing