The Best Germanfest and Oktoberfest Festivals in Texas: Prost!

May 14, 2024

Hold on to your lederhosen and get ready to clink your steins because Texas knows how to throw a German party like nobody's business. From frothy beers to bratwurst and polka bands that will get even the most rhythmically challenged person on the dance floor, these festivals are a Texas-sized take on Bavarian fun. Here are the best Germanfest and Oktoberfest celebrations in the Lone Star State that you absolutely cannot miss.

Wurstfest the largest German Festival in the state of Texas.

Wurstfest in New Braunfels (November 1-10, 2024)

For an authentic Bavarian experience in Texas, Wurstfest in New Braunfels is the place to be. This 10-day festival, held along the scenic Comal River, offers a delightful mix of German culture, food, and entertainment.

Set in a picturesque Bavarian village setting, Wurstfest has been celebrating all things sausage since 1961. With beer halls, music stages, and craft booths, the festival is a vibrant hub of activity.

Must-try: The array of traditional German sausages is a culinary highlight. From bratwurst to currywurst, each bite offers a taste of Germany. Don’t miss the currywurst – a spicy, flavorful favorite.
Don’t Miss: The Masskrugstemmen (stein holding) competition is a test of strength where participants hold a full beer stein at arm's length. It's as entertaining as it is challenging. The carnival rides and games add extra fun for all ages.
Entertainment: Enjoy lively performances from Oompah bands, folk dancers, and yodelers. The music and dance are sure to get you clapping and dancing along.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Kinderhalle (Children’s Hall) offers games, crafts, and activities to introduce kids to German culture.
Shopping: The Marktplatz (Market) features vendors selling handcrafted German goods, unique gifts, and plenty of Wurstfest memorabilia.
Culinary Delights: Beyond sausages, enjoy schnitzels, pretzels, sauerkraut, and strudels, paired with German and domestic beers and wines.

Insider Tips:

Arrive Early: Beat the crowds by arriving early, especially on weekends.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Embrace the Culture: Wear a dirndl or lederhosen, learn a few German phrases, and fully immerse yourself in the experience.

Wurstfest in New Braunfels is a beloved tradition that brings the community together to celebrate German heritage with great food, lively entertainment, and fun for all ages. Mark your calendar and get ready to say “Prost!” this November.

Having fun in the Beer Garden at the Fredericksburg Oktoberfest!

Fredericksburg Oktoberfest (October 4-6, 2024)

Fredericksburg might be a small town, but it boasts a big heart for German heritage, and their Oktoberfest is a testament to that. Held the first weekend in October, this festival transforms the town into a mini Munich with its biergartens, Oompah bands, and enough strudel to satisfy even the sweetest tooth.

Must-try: The bratwurst with sauerkraut. It’s a classic for a reason.
Don’t Miss: The Chicken Dance. Yes, it’s cheesy, but it’s also tradition. Plus, where else can you flap your arms and wiggle your tail feathers with impunity?
Entertainment: The festival features multiple stages with live music, traditional German folk dances, and even yodeling. Don’t miss the chance to join in the lively polka sessions.
Shopping: Explore the artisan market for handcrafted items, traditional German attire, and unique gifts. Perfect for finding a memorable souvenir.
Family Fun: The Kinderpark offers activities and entertainment for kids, making it a fun event for the whole family.

Fredericksburg Oktoberfest is a charming and vibrant celebration that brings a touch of Bavaria to Texas Hill Country. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, delicious food, and lively entertainment.

A beautiful festival in a beautiful park the Addison Octoberfest.

Addison Oktoberfest (September 19-22, 2024)

If you’re in the Dallas area, Addison Oktoberfest is your ticket to Bavarian bliss. Celebrated in mid-September, this festival features authentic German beer, music, and dancing. It’s one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations outside of Munich, complete with a yodeling contest that’s as entertaining as it sounds.

Must-try: The giant Bavarian pretzels. They’re practically a meal in themselves.
Don’t Miss: The Dachshund Dash. Watching wiener dogs race is as hilarious as it is adorable.
Entertainment: Enjoy a variety of live music, including traditional Oompah bands, and dance performances. The dance floor is always bustling with activity.
Family Activities: The festival offers plenty of fun for kids, including carnival rides, games, and a children’s entertainment area.
Shopping: Browse through the market stalls for German crafts, beer steins, and other unique items.

Addison Oktoberfest is a lively and family-friendly event that offers a true taste of German culture. From delicious food to exciting entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Muester Germanfest night time fun.

Germanfest in Muenster (April 26-28, 2024)

Muenster, Texas, celebrates its German roots twice a year with two distinct festivals, each offering its unique flavor of fun and tradition. The first is Germanfest, held every April, which has been delighting visitors since 1976. This three-day event celebrates the town’s rich heritage with live music, carnival rides, a bustling German market, and, of course, plenty of beer and sausage.

Must-try: The smoked sausage on a stick. It’s portable, delicious, and perfect for festival munching.
Don’t Miss: The sausage-cooking. Ever wondered how the sausage gets made? Now you can find out—and maybe even taste the results.
Personality: Germanfest is all about family fun and community spirit. The whole town comes alive with traditional costumes, folk dances, and activities that bring out the kid in everyone.

Only in Muenster Texas do you get to do the chicken dance twice a year.

Oktoberfest in Muenster (October 4-6, 2024)

The fall edition of Muenster’s celebration, Oktoberfest, is another chance to experience the town’s Bavarian charm. Held the first weekend in October, Muenster’s Oktoberfest features a lively atmosphere with beer gardens, Oompah bands, and an array of German food that will make your taste buds do the polka.

Must-try: The schnitzel. Breaded, fried, and absolutely mouth-watering.
Don’t Miss: The stein-hoisting contest. Think you have the biceps to hold up a full stein of beer the longest? Time to find out.
Personality: Oktoberfest in Muenster is a bit more beer-centric and geared towards those looking to enjoy the rich flavors of German brews and hearty meals. It’s a spirited celebration with a nod to Bavarian traditions and plenty of opportunities to dance and toast with friends.

One of the newer Germanfest in a unique and fun environment. Where else can you swim in the ocean in the morning and eat schnitzel in the evening.

Galveston Island Oktoberfest (October 25-26, 2024)

Taking place in late October, Galveston Island Oktoberfest offers a seaside twist on the traditional German festival. Enjoy your bratwurst with a side of ocean breeze as you partake in the festivities, including beer tastings, arts and crafts, and an impressive lineup of live music.

Must-try: The schnitzel. Breaded, fried, and absolutely mouth-watering.
Don’t Miss: The Oktoberfest Parade. It’s a colorful, festive procession that’s fun for all ages.
Entertainment: Live music and dance performances keep the energy high. The beachfront setting adds a unique charm to the festivities.
Family-Friendly: The festival includes activities and entertainment for kids, ensuring a fun day out for the whole family.

Galveston Island Oktoberfest is a unique celebration that combines traditional German festivities with the beauty of the Texas coast. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a festive atmosphere by the sea.

Cate’s Concepts at the Festivals

Cate’s Concepts is thrilled to be part of the vibrant festival scene in Texas! This year, we’re setting up our booth at Germanfest and Oktoberfest in Muenster, Galveston Island Oktoberfest, and Addison Oktoberfest. Here’s what you can expect when you visit us:

Muenster Festivals: Whether it’s the springtime fun of Germanfest or the autumn revelry of Oktoberfest, our booth will be packed with an array of handcrafted wooden earrings that capture the spirit of these dynamic events. Expect to find unique designs inspired by traditional German motifs, perfect for adding a festive touch to your outfit.
Galveston Island Oktoberfest: Enjoy the seaside breeze as you browse our latest collection of wooden earrings. Our designs are as refreshing as the ocean air, with a touch of coastal charm to complement the festival’s lively atmosphere. Don’t forget to check out our special edition pieces, created exclusively for this event.
Addison Oktoberfest: Join us at one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations outside of Munich. Our booth will feature a variety of handcrafted wooden earrings that blend classic elegance with contemporary style. It’s the perfect place to find a memorable keepsake or a stylish addition to your jewelry collection.

Each earring is crafted with care, ensuring that you carry a bit of the festival magic with you long after the last polka dance. We can’t wait to meet you and share our love for handcrafted jewelry at these amazing festivals. Prost!