COVID shuts down Oktoberfest for 2nd year, fueling Munich's economic angst

Munich cancels Oktoberfest for second year.

With music festivals and packed football stadiums back in full swing in the United States, in Munich, home to the world-famous Oktoberfest, the streets are normally overflowing with cheer and beer right now, but the 1.5 million residents of the Bavarian capital will have to forgo their grand tradition for a second year in a row due to COVID-19.

In the heart of the city, the California Bean is a popular brunch spot offering a blend of American and Bavarian dishes. The restaurant's owner, Eveyln Müller, told ABC News that although her restaurant provides a laid-back atmosphere, she says the cancellation of one of the world's most famous festivals, now two years in a row, brings a feeling of emptiness to the locals.

"[We miss] the people, we miss the business. We miss everything," Müller said.

That emptiness is also having an impact on the city's economy. Many businesses struggled last year under COVID restrictions and Munich was no exception. Businesses there are feeling the strain from canceling the 16-day event where roughly two million gallons of beer are consumed and over six million people visit the area.