Come and practice your best German traditional dance moves this summer at the iconic folk dance event, the Kocherlball (Cook’s Ball) in Munich. 

Follow the moves as set out by the ceremonial master, enjoy a traditional Bratwurst and German beer and mingle with the crowds in your well-loved traditional Bavarian costumes. But don’t forget to set your alarm, as this dance event is for the early birds, kicking off at 6am!

A brief history of Kocherlball

The largest and most popular outdoor folk dance event in Munich, the Kocherlball dates all the way back to the 19th century. During the warm summer months, servants, maids and cooks were the given opportunity to dance under the Chinese Tower in the city’s Englischer Garten Park on Sundays during the Kocherlball.

But there was a catch - as the working class had to work, they could only dance early in the morning before service. The event was ultimately banned in 1904, due to its “lack of morality.” However, on the 200th anniversary of the Englischer Park, the Cultural Department of the City of Munich decided to revive the dance event.

Nowadays, up to 10.000 guests come together each year by the Chinese Tower early Sunday morning to dance to traditional Bavarian music.

Kocherlball - Bavarian dance and music for the early-birds

From 6am onwards, ceremonial dance masters Katharina Mayer and Magnus Kaindl will set the pace for dances such as the polka and waltz. One of the main highlights of the morning is the "Münchner Française," a local dance. 

There are even public dance classes for those looking to practice the “Münchner Française”, in the bay room at the local beer hall Hofbräuhaus on July 4, 11, 15 and 18. Most attendees wear traditional Bavarian costumes to the dance, so be sure to dress the part.

And if dancing is not really part of your repertoire, fear not. You can also watch the dancers while enjoying beer and local snacks in the beer garden. Make sure you're there early to be sure of getting one of the coveted seats - some people arrive as early as 4am!

Dancing at the Kocherlball

Do you have your traditional outfit all ready for the Kocherlball? Keep in mind that you are not allowed to bring external drinks to consume at the event (food is allowed) and guests are advised to arrive at the event via public transport.

For more details on the dance event, visit the Kocherlball website.

 Video credit: Vimeo / Simply Munich