What is the name of the traditional Bavarian folk dance performed at Oktoberfest?

The traditional Bavarian folk dance performed at Oktoberfest is the Schuhplattler.

The Schuhplattler originated in the Eastern Alps, especially Upper Bavaria, Tyrol, and Salzburg. Its name combines the German words Schuhe, meaning “shoes,” and platt, meaning “flat.” The name reflects its most recognizable movements: dancers slap their thighs, knees, and the soles of their shoes while stomping, clapping, jumping, and turning to folk music.

Historically, the Schuhplattler developed from the Ländler, a three-quarter-time Alpine dance. In older partner dances, a man might perform the energetic slapping and stamping figures while his partner continued with turning dance steps. Modern performances are often choreographed group shows presented by costume clubs, or Trachtenvereine.

The dance is associated with lederhosen, dirndls, Alpine folk music, and Bavarian cultural displays, making it a natural feature at Oktoberfest-style celebrations. However, it is not the same thing as a general Bavarian waltz, polka, or Ländler. Those dances may also appear at the festival, but Schuhplattler is the distinctive named tradition involving rhythmic striking of the body and footwear.