The Devil’s Wheel at Oktoberfest: A Spinning Tradition
Oktoberfest is known around the world for its beer tents, Bavarian music, and lively atmosphere, but some of the festival’s most beloved traditions are found outside the steins. Among them is the Devil’s Wheel (Teufelsrad), a quirky, chaotic, and endlessly entertaining attraction that has been delighting crowds for more than a century.
How It Works
The setup is deceptively simple. Imagine a giant, flat wooden wheel, large enough for dozens of people to sit on at once. Participants gather in the center, often cross-legged, and wait as the wheel begins to spin. At first, it’s manageable, and riders grin with confidence. But as the operator increases the speed, the real fun begins. One by one, participants start to slide, tumble, and roll toward the edges until they’re tossed off completely. The last person left in the center is crowned the winner, though the glory is more about laughter and bragging rights than prizes.
A Century of Spinning Fun
The attraction has been part of Oktoberfest since the early 1900s, and its enduring popularity is proof of its charm. While high-tech roller coasters and flashing midway rides compete for attention on the festival grounds, the Devil’s Wheel stands out for its simplicity and nostalgia. There are no seatbelts, no harnesses, and no technology—just gravity, balance, and the thrill of trying to outlast the spin.
A Show for Everyone
Part of the Devil’s Wheel’s magic is that it’s not just a ride—it’s a performance. Spectators crowd around the arena, cheering on friends, strangers, and sometimes even local characters who are known for their wheel-riding skills. An announcer keeps the crowd laughing with playful commentary, teasing participants and turning each round into a mini comedy show. This blend of sport, spectacle, and slapstick humor makes the Devil’s Wheel just as enjoyable to watch as it is to ride
For All Ages
The Devil’s Wheel has long been a family favorite. While later rounds may feature rowdier adult competition, earlier rides often include children and teenagers, making it a multi-generational experience. Parents cheer for their kids, friends encourage each other, and strangers unite in shared laughter. It’s a reminder that Oktoberfest isn’t just about beer—it’s about community, tradition, and joy.
Adding to the Challenge
To keep things interesting, operators sometimes toss in obstacles like ropes, exercise balls, or even padded bags to knock riders off balance. These playful twists ensure no two rides are ever the same and add to the unpredictability that keeps people coming back year after year.
Why It Endures
The Devil’s Wheel embodies what makes Oktoberfest so special: a mix of tradition, laughter, and togetherness. It requires no German vocabulary, no drinking capacity, and no special skills—just a willingness to sit down, hold on, and have fun. Whether you’re a participant rolling across the wheel or a spectator doubled over in laughter, the experience captures the playful heart of Bavaria’s biggest festival.
In a festival full of bucket list moments, the Devil’s Wheel remains one of the most unforgettable. For many visitors, it’s not just another attraction—it’s the memory they’ll be talking about long after Oktoberfest ends.
Details to know about the Devil’s Wheel at Oktoberfest
- The tent is located close to the back row of the Oktoberfest grounds
- Entrance into the tent is €5
- There is a host that picks who participates in the next compeition. Themes such as “hair color, persons over 100 kg, people from outside of Germany,” etc
