Fredericksburg, a small town in the Texas Hill Country, will host its annual Oktoberfest Friday, October 6, through Sunday, October 8. Now in its 43rd year, Oktoberfest is the premiere festival in a town that boasts a variety of festivals and events year-round. This year’s Oktoberfest is expected to attract more than 25,000 visitors from all over Texas and far beyond.
Started in 1981 and based on the first Oktoberfest in Munich in 1810, Fredericksburg’s version of this Bavarian celebration has garnered multiple accolades over the years. In 2022, it was named the “Most Authentic Oktoberfest in America” by Only in Your State, one of the world’s leading travel websites, and it’s been identified as one of the best Oktoberfests in the U.S. by Fodor’s, Trip Advisor, and Travel magazine.
“Oktoberfest offers something for everyone,” said Debbie Reeh, Oktoberfest manager. “It’s our activities throughout the weekend that set our Oktoberfest apart. There’s so much to participate in.”
The weekend begins on Friday with the gates opening at 6 p.m. In addition to featuring a wide selection of German and American food offered by over a dozen vendors and over 40 varieties of German, American, Texan, and other imported beers, Oktoberfest showcases arts and collectibles from 30 juried artisans, including a select group of Texas Hill Country artists.
Among the most popular events over the course of the weekend are Friday’s Ok-TubaFest, meet- the- makers with the Shiner ( Spoetzl Brewery) Brewmaster and the Leinenkugel team, and the Altstadt Waltz Contest. Saturday’s events include the family-favorite Hauptstrasse Chicken Dance, the Samuel Adams Stein Hoist, the Weihenstephan Polka Contest, and the Altstadt Keg Tapping. To close out the weekend on Sunday, visitors can participate in the Real Estate Advisory Team’s 42 Tournament and the Family Lederhosen and Dirndl Contest.
“Our Oktoberfest is packed with fun, making it a great family getaway,” said Reeh. “We have an entire area devoted to activities for children of all ages. They can participate in games, watch a magician, and get their faces painted. We have families who return year after year to enjoy our family festive atmosphere.”
The Hi-Striker Competition on Saturday draws a crowd every year, with many competitors returning to defend their victories. With a total of six hi-strikers ranging in size and difficulty, people of all ages, including young children, can test their physical strength all weekend long.
Music is a cornerstone of Oktoberfest, and this year’s celebration features over 25 bands from as far away as Germany.
Five covered stages showcase a continuous parade of entertainers featuring German oompah, polka, and waltz favorites, and the music provides plenty of opportunities for dancing for all ages.
Presented by the Pedernales Creative Arts Alliance (PCAA) and over 1,300 community volunteers, proceeds from Fredericksburg’s Oktoberfest fund student scholarships, local arts programs, and the Musical Evenings, a series of free music events for the local community to enjoy.
To learn more about Oktoberfest’s hours of admission, weekend schedule, ticket prices, park and ride options, and other details and to purchase tickets, visit ww.oktoberfestinfbg.com or call 830-997-4810.