For many Oktoberfest visitors, the Teufelsrad, or "Devil's Wheel", is a beloved tradition. The spinning ride has entertained crowds for more than a century, challenging participants to stay on a rapidly rotating disc before being flung off.
But a new investigation reported by the Süddeutsche Zeitung has shone a spotlight on a darker side of the attraction. Researchers say tens of thousands of videos linked to the ride are circulating online, many of which appear to focus on women whose skirts have ridden up during the attraction, often without their knowledge or consent.
The findings have renewed concerns about privacy, sexual harassment and the role social media platforms play in spreading such content.
How large is the problem?
According to the research, more than 32,000 videos linked to the Teufelsrad were found on Meta platforms alone. Researchers also identified thousands more clips on YouTube and TikTok.
The concern is that many of these videos appear to focus specifically on women whose dirndls ride up while they are being thrown from the spinning disc. Researchers found accounts devoted almost entirely to sharing this type of footage, some attracting tens of thousands of followers.
The investigation also suggests there may be financial incentives behind the content. Some account operators allegedly generated advertising revenue, sold subscriptions or directed users to external links.
READ ALSO: Potsdam bans smart glasses at swimming pools amid privacy fears in Germany
Why is it illegal?
Germany has explicitly criminalised the act known as "upskirting" since January 2021.
Under German law, it is a criminal offence to photograph or film intimate body areas covered from public view without permission. Sharing or distributing such recordings can also be punishable.
Offenders face fines or prison sentences of up to two years.
What are organisers doing?
The Teufelsrad's operator, Elisabeth Polaczy, says steps have been taken to discourage filming and online sharing.
Warning signs at the attraction state that photographing strangers and uploading recordings without consent is prohibited. Staff are also said to be paying particular attention to the issue.
In addition, free cycling shorts are being offered to women who would like extra coverage under their dirndls. Around 600 pairs are expected to be available during this year's Oktoberfest.
The measures have received support from Oktoberfest director Christian Scharpf, who described the filming and online distribution of such material as "a disgrace".
At the same time, a separate debate has emerged over how the attraction presents women.
Following recommendations from Munich's Equal Opportunity Office, additional clothing was painted on historic papier-mâché female figures above the Teufelsrad entrance. City officials said the alterations were intended to address stereotypes and reduce imagery associated with skirts flying up.
Bavarian FDP politician Martin Hagen criticised the move earlier this month. He identified “government agencies acting as guardians of public morality” as the real problem. “Abolish the equal opportunity officers!” he added.
Where to get help at Oktoberfest
Women and girls who feel unsafe, experience harassment or need support can turn to the "Safe Wiesn" service at the festival grounds.
The service offers advice, practical assistance and support following incidents of harassment or violence. In 2025, more than 3,500 people used the facility.
READ ALSO: Bag checks and safe spaces - How Munich aims to make Oktoberfest safer
Anyone who witnesses or experiences a crime should contact police immediately by calling 110. Organisers and support workers stress that reporting incidents quickly can help protect others and improve the chances of identifying offenders.
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