This annual two-day Town Foundation Festival welcomes everyone to celebrate the birthday of Munich. Here you'll find lots of attractions, concerts, performances, entertainment, a craftsmen market, and many other activities.
Munich Foundation History
The history of Munich dates back to the 8th century when a group of Benedictine monks established a small monastic settlement called "bei den Munichen," which means 'by the monks.' This settlement was located on the Petersberg hill. On the foot of this settlement, a marketplace, today Marienplatz, was established.
But the actual founder of the city is Henry the Lion, Duke of Saxony and Bavaria. He destroyed the only wooden bridge over the Isar river near Föhring, and built a new one in "Munichen." When his act was publicly recognized, that became the official foundation day of the city—14th of June, 1158.
Stadtfest München 2024
In 2024, Munich is celebrating the city's 866th birthday with the rallying cry, "It's going well again." This year's celebration features live music and dancing on several stages, a beer garden, a Ferris wheel, family activities, folk festival fun, a craft village and craft market, city tours, a sports mile, and the open-air dance floor at Wittelsbacherplatz, and much more.
Naturally, the European Football Championship, taking place from June 14th to July 14th in Munich, looms large. The city's anniversary celebration, themed “It's going well again,” is heavily influenced by EURO 2024 in Munich and features various sports and football-related events.
Celebration at Wittelsbacherplatz
On Munich's birthday, visit the 50-meter Ferris wheel with 36 closed gondolas, which allow you to enjoy the magical panorama of the city. Afterward, stop at the open-air dance floor, where fantastic parties will take place. You can attend master classes, wich will teach anyone to dance, regardless of experience. Several sports activities will be offered along Brienner Straße this year, including balance games, wheelchair netball, juggling, five-a-side football, and soccer.
Music Stage and Beer Garden at Marienplatz
The music stage at Marienplatz invites you to enjoy something for every taste, from Bavarian music to rock and pop. In front of the town hall, the large beer garden on Marienplatz provides plenty of space for relaxation and feasting. Famous sports stars will sign autographs and interact with fans on stage in the pop-up garden.
Craftsmen's Village and Folk Festival at Odeonsplatz
During the showcase workshops at the craftsman's village on Odeonsplatz, artisans from Munich and the neighboring regions exhibit their expertise, representing various guilds such as roofers, metalworkers, carpenters, and more. Odeonsplatz also offers folk, family-friendly festival fun, and food/sweets/drink stalls.
Craft Market on Sendlinger Street
The artisan market beckons visitors to explore and shop throughout the day. Approximately 100 artists and craftsmen showcase their meticulously handmade items. Along Sendlinger Straße, guests can unwind on lounge chairs in the chill zone, accompanied by music.
Residents and locals can also enjoy the kids' program, dance at the town hall, free city tours, Bennofest at Munich Cathedral (Frauenkirche), and much more.
Festival Hours
All the festival events runs on Saturday from 10 am to 11 pm and on Sunday from 11 am to 9:30 pm.
