Germany's world-famous Oktoberfest festival comes to an end

Even though the weather in the southern German city of Munich hasn't always been favourable, it is already clear as it comes to a close that this year's Oktoberfest has attracted a large number of visitors, reported dpa.

As the world-famous public festival featuring beer tents and fun rides and people in traditional costume ends on Sunday, the management, police, fire brigade and Aicher Ambulance medical service plan to take stock.

According to the German Weather Service, there is a chance of a sunny ending after a few chilly days.

All parties involved have so far spoken of a very calm experience despite the crowds.

The police reported a significant decrease in criminal offences compared to the previous year in both the mid-festival review and the second week. The officers attribute this to appeals and preventative work.

Additionally, the number of patients at the medical station decreased, with figures up to the mid-festival period showing about 10% fewer than the previous year.

Following the deadly terrorist attack in the western city of Solingen by a suspected Islamist from Syria in August and the suspected attempted terror attack outside the Israeli consulate in Munich at the beginning of September, heightened security measures were implemented at the entrances to the festival.

For the first time, stewards also used hand-held metal detectors. Knives were discovered and confiscated on a few occasions. According to the festival management and police, visitors accepted the checks with great understanding.

The festival, known locally as the Wiesn, is believed to be the largest of its kind in the world.