Culture and Tradition

"’Tradition and progress’ is Bavaria’s maxim. Even in an ever-closer Europe, Bavaria will retain its individuality and self-confidence" (Minister-President Günther Beckstein). True to this motto, tradition is alive in Bavaria: the numerous traditional costume associations, heritage societies and music groups express Bavarians’ authentic attachment to their culture.

The Oktoberfest or the Wiesn as it is known in Bavaria, is rightfully described as the world’s biggest folk festival.
It attracts more than six million visitors from all over the world every year and is the trademark of Bavarian hospitality.

As it is written in the Constitution, "Bavaria is a state of culture". The Bavarian government takes this mandate very seriously and provides significant support for cultural activities. Bavaria's orchestras, theatres, operas, museums and festivals have earned an international reputation.

The Richard Wagner Festival in Bayreuth, the Bavarian State Opera in Munich, the Mozart Festival in Würzburg and the Oberammergau Passion Play that takes place every ten years attract a multitude of international guests to Bavaria every year.