Oktoberfest Ride Implements Safety Measure Against Upskirting
Organizers at Munich’s Oktoberfest have introduced a new protective measure for participants on the Teufelsrad, or "Devil’s Wheel," following reports of widespread voyeurism. Women riding the popular amusement attraction are now being offered complimentary cycling shorts to wear, a move intended to prevent upskirting.
Addressing Voyeuristic Activity
The initiative follows an investigation that uncovered thousands of videos capturing women on the ride. These recordings, which were taken without consent, focused on capturing upskirt imagery as participants navigated the spinning platform of the Devil’s Wheel. The distribution of the shorts serves as a direct response to this documented pattern of harassment, aiming to provide riders with a layer of security while they participate in the traditional attraction.
The Teufelsrad Attraction
The Teufelsrad is a long-standing feature of the Oktoberfest beer festival. The ride functions by having participants sit or lie on a large, rotating wooden disc. As the speed of the wheel increases, centrifugal force causes riders to slide off toward the outer edges. Because of the nature of the movement, participants are frequently left in vulnerable positions, which has been exploited by individuals recording illicit footage.
By providing the shorts, festival operators are attempting to mitigate the risk of such voyeuristic behavior, ensuring that the amusement ride remains a safer environment for all attendees.