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Oktoberfest in Hofgeismar paused: Where have the visitors gone?
The Hofgeismar Oktoberfest 2025 had low visitor numbers and will be paused in 2026. Organized by Elmar Meilenbrock, 500 guests enjoyed the traditional celebration.
Oktoberfest in Hofgeismar paused: Where have the visitors gone?
This year's Oktoberfest took place in Hofgeismar on October 28, 2025, but the event was characterized by a low number of visitors. According to reports from HNA Only 500 guests took part in the celebration, whereas in previous years over 1000 people came to the celebration. Despite the high costs and the low number of participants, the Oktoberfest was organized by Elmar Meilenbrock, the festival host and chairman of the Heimat- und Verkehrsverein (HVV).
Ticket prices were 22 euros at the box office and 17 euros in advance - an increase of two euros compared to the previous year. Beer prices remained stable at 10.50 euros for a Maas and 5 euros for a 0.4 beer. But the low number of visitors has led those responsible to decide to put Oktoberfest on hold next year. Kerstin Aderholz, the HVV chairwoman, noted that the event was suffering from the pressure of the many smaller Oktoberfests in the area.
A festival with tradition
In his speech, city leader Torben Busse emphasized the cultural significance of the Oktoberfest for Hofgeismar. The event took place in the festival tent on the Reithagen, which is designed for 700 people. A touch of tradition surrounded the celebration, as the guests came in festive clothing such as dirndls and lederhosen. The party band “Die Bajuwaren” created a great atmosphere and those present celebrated with a lot of joy, despite the lower number of visitors.
Oktoberfest has a long tradition that began in Bavaria and still holds an important place in German culture today. After the first Oktoberfest in 1810, which was held for the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig and Princess Therese, this festival was spoken of as the origin of all folk festivals. Every year the festival was marked by ups and downs, which the history of Oktoberfest illustrates how oktoberfest.de reported.
Looking into the future
The challenges facing the Oktoberfest in Hofgeismar are not unique. Across the region, smaller towns hold their own festivals, which increases competition for visitors. Nevertheless, it remains to be hoped that the tradition of the Oktoberfest in Hofgeismar can be revived with new energy in 2026. In the meantime, the anticipation for the upcoming events and the return to normality is palpable. The official city portal also emphasizes that an Oktoberfest should take place again on October 25, 2025; preparations for this are already underway, even if this year will involve a break. Further information can be found on the city of Hofgeismar website here.