Does the Texas heat feel everlasting? Mix up your October with a trip across Texas to experience Oktoberfest. From the Hill Country to the coast, communities across the state blend Bavarian tradition with Texas hospitality. Live music, hearty food, stein contests, and plenty of Gemütlichkeit make these experiences meaningful. Here is a look at some of the top Oktoberfest celebrations and related events happening this year.
Fredericksburg Oktoberfest
Oct 2 - 4, Marktplatz (Market Square)
Celebrate Gemütlichkeit, a German word for warmth, friendliness, and good cheer, that provides scholarships to Gillespie County students and grants to local community projects. Dance the heat away while five stages provide live music. Immerse yourself in German culture – the Texas way. Enjoy a mix of German and American food, anything from Schnitzel to BBQ. With activities like the Kraut Run and a Stein Hoist Contest, there is something for all ages.
New Braunfels Wurstfest
Nov 6 - 15, Wurstfest Performing Arts Center
This festival's German/American food and vendors come from small businesses around the New Braunfels and greater Texas area. Whether you're learning to chicken dance or riding the carousel, you will be surrounded by people who have been brought together to experience German culture since 1961.
Addison Oktoberfest (DFW Area)
Sept 17 - 20, Addison Circle Park
Willkommen to a wonderful Texas twist on a traditional Bavarian celebration. The Addison Oktoberfest has dozens of polka bands from around the country, football viewing in a biergarten, an arcade along with traditional Carnival rides, and a silent disco. The Dachshund Dash is a special Addison tradition that always brings a smile to everyone’s face.
Austoberfest
Oct 3, Scholz Garten & Saengerrunde Hall
Experience a day that celebrates Texas and German culture with Rock, Swing, and Traditional German Volksmusic. Participate in a Stein holding contest, a Sausage competition, or beat the heat and bowl. With unique features like a free bier to the first 500 guests, Austoberfest is sure to be a wonderful day.
Austin Oktoberfest
Oct 10, German Texan Heritage Society
Since 1812, the German-Texan Heritage Society has hosted this special day. This event takes place in the heart of German culture, at the German Free School, a historical building with beautiful terraced gardens. Hosted at a hidden gem in Austin, this vibrant atmosphere is full of the sounds and tastes of Germany.
Oktoberfest Dallas
Oct 24, Flag Pole Hill Park
Venture to Dallas to experience Pat Green live. Take a walk in Market Village to view all the big football games in a bier garden environment. Grab an authentic German Brat or Hefeweizen. Local students from Liberty High High School will keep your kids entertained all day, by leading engaging activities.
Fort Worth Oktoberfest
Sept 24 - 26, Trinity Park
Join the Fort Worth community in celebrating German culture. This three day festival brings authentic Bavarian bier, hearty food, and live polka. There’s something for everyone, – even your dachshund – as this community comes together to soak up the festive atmosphere. You can tap the keg, race the 5K, and watch tons of cute dachshunds race, all in the same place.
Six Flags Oktoberfest Fall Fun
Sept 5 - Oct 31, Fiesta Texas & Over Texas
At Six Flags Fiesta Texas or Six Flags Over Texas, you can partake in Germany’s world-famous festival. The thrill of roller coasters is paired with authentic Bavarian brews and live entertainment. This unique celebration blends Munich tradition with Six Flags fun. Plan a wonderful fall adventure with your family during this limited-edition holiday.
Island Oktoberfest
Oct 23 - 24, Downtown Galveston
This free festival is sure to knock you off your feet. The layering of live music, authentic sausages, and hand-crafted gifts puts a special spin on the Oktoberfest tradition. To support local community outreach, Galveston Island comes together to participate in events like costume and stein contests. This event is a true island tradition of fun, food, and culture.
Brewery Fest Events
Shiner Oktoberfest
Sept 19 - Oct 3, Spoetzl Brewery, Shiner
Experience Bavarian tradition at the home of Shiner Bier. This event provides three festive weekends full of German music, classic food, and games for all ages. Raise a stein of Shiner Oktoberfest, and soak up the small town Texas hospitality. This free event is a true hometown celebration of community.
Flying Saucer Draught Emporium
Sept 17 - Oct 5, Fort Worth/San Antonio/Houston/Sugar Land/Cypress Waters/The Lake
Raise a stein at your local Flying Saucer Draught Emporium during this Texas-wide celebration of craft bier and Bavarian flavors. Indulge in special Oktoberfest pours and festive specials. Stop by, sample seasonal favorites, and join the Beerknurds (UFO Club Members) in marking 30 years of great bier and good times.
Karbachtoberfest at Karbach Brewing Co.
Sept 18 - Oct 4, Houston
Karbach Brewing Company hosts three weekends of German fun. From gourmet brats to Wiener dog races, there is something for everyone to enjoy. These weekends honor the roots of Karbach and offer a cultural experience for people of all ages.
TUPPS Oktoberfest
Sept 18 - 20, TUPPS Brewery
TUPPS Brewery welcomes all to enjoy German culture. Even if bier isn’t your drink of choice, TUPPS provides a full bar. Whatever your preference, experience everything you love about Oktoberfest, TUPPS Style.
