210 Years of Glückshafen at Oktoberfest: Supporting Munich’s Welfare Organizations
Munich, August 28, 2026 – For 210 years, the ‘Glückshafen’ (Lucky Harbor) has been an integral part of Munich’s Oktoberfest, combining entertainment with a good cause. It has consistently supported social projects in Munich and the surrounding region. This year, the popular lottery is once again organized by the ‘Erster Förderverein der Verbände der freien Wohlfahrtspflege München e.V.’, led by the BRK-Kreisverband München (Bavarian Red Cross, Munich district association). The organizers are currently seeking volunteers to help run the Glückshafen.
A Tradition of Helping: The History of the Glückshafen
The origins of the Glückshafen date back to the early years of Oktoberfest, making it one of the oldest establishments at the Wiesn. The first Glückshafen was initiated after the devastating famine of 1816, with the proceeds benefiting needy citizens. This established a tradition that continues to this day.
For the past 79 years, the Munich Red Cross has been responsible for organizing the Glückshafen. The net proceeds from ticket sales go to Munich’s welfare organizations, supporting their diverse social work. These organizations include:
- Arbeiterwohlfahrt Kreisverband München-Stadt (Workers’ Welfare Association, Munich City District)
- Bayerisches Rotes Kreuz Kreisverband München (Bavarian Red Cross, Munich District Association)
- Caritas der Erzdiözese München und Freising (Caritas of the Archdiocese of Munich and Freising)
- Diakonie München und Oberbayern e. V. (Diakonie Munich and Upper Bavaria)
- Paritätischer Wohlfahrtsverband Bezirksverband Oberbayern (Paritätischer Welfare Association, Upper Bavaria District Association)
- Israelitische Kultusgemeinde München und Oberbayern (Israelite Cultural Community Munich and Upper Bavaria)
Doing Good with Every Ticket
At this year’s Oktoberfest, visitors can once again purchase a lottery ticket for an inflation-proof 1 Euro, try their luck, and simultaneously contribute to a good cause. In addition to the chance to win attractive material prizes – ranging from kitchen appliances to cuddly toys and games – every ticket purchase supports the work of welfare organizations in Munich and the region. The operation of the Glückshafen is made possible by the dedicated involvement of numerous volunteers.
Two Glückshafen Locations at the Wiesn
This year, the Glückshafen will be present at two locations at the Oktoberfest:
- The ‘Glücksritter’ (Knight of Fortune) Glückshafen is located directly next to the ‘Käfer Wiesn-Schänke’ at Matthias-Pschorr-Straße 16, opposite the main entrance of the ‘Schützen-Festzelt’.
- The second Glückshafen, ‘Haus Gloria’, can be found at Stand 14 on the Oidn Wiesn.
Volunteering with a Difference
The Glückshafen at the Wiesn and Oidn Wiesn offers a unique opportunity to get involved for a good cause. Volunteers are still being sought for the period from September 19 to October 4, 2026. Tasks include selling tickets, distributing prizes, and restocking prize shelves. Whether individuals, groups of friends, or corporate teams – every contribution helps to make a positive impact. More information is available at www.brk-muenchen.de/ehrenamt-glueckshafen.
Source: BRK, Erster Förderverein der Verbände der freien Wohlfahrtspflege München e.V.
