San Antonio has a rich mix of Mexican and German heritage. Back in the 1840s, German immigrants arrived here seeking work, freedom, and a new home. They settled in and around the city, leaving their mark on street names, restaurants, and even the yearly Oktoberfest celebrations.
If you’re keen on enjoying lively polka music and raising glasses of delicious ale, we’ve gathered some awesome places where you can fully embrace the über-popular Oktoberfest vibe in San Antonio. Cheers!
List:
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas
- Wurstfest in New Braunfels
- Biergarten Riverwalk
- Oktoberfest 2023 at Künstler Brewing
- San Antonio Beer Festival
- Barktoberfest 2023 in Boerne, TX
- Beethoven Mäennechor
- 148th Oktoberfest 2023 in Spring Branch, TX
Where to Celebrate Oktoberfest in San Antonio
Six Flags Fiesta Texas
At Six Flags, get ready for a blast during their Oktoberfest celebration happening every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from August 26 to October 29! You’ll be in for a treat with a variety of craft beers, delicious German-inspired grub like bratwursts, kiolbassa sausages, sauerkraut, and potato pancakes, served at food tents all over the park. Check the website for where to find these food and drink spots.
Here’s the scoop: you can munch your way through Oktoberfest from park open until 1 hour before closing time. Plus, this fest runs alongside the famous Six Flags Fiesta Texas event, Fright Fest. It’s double the fun, folks!
Wurstfest in New Braunfels
Wurstfest is not your typical Oktoberfest, but it’s a huge celebration of German heritage in New Braunfels, TX. Food and drinks take the spotlight just like in any good Oktoberfest bash.
From November 3 to 12, Wurstfest goes all out for 10 fun-filled days. The festival hours change daily, so be sure to check. Your ticket gets you into the festival grounds for all the entertainment and public spaces. Food and drinks at the booths will be extra, but no worries—you can snag a drink ticket online via the Wurstfest website.
Here’s the twist: Wurstfest is super family-friendly! It’s not just about adults having fun. There are carnival rides, games, live music, and loads of dancing (get ready for a lot of chicken dancing!). With the delightful November weather in New Braunfels, it’s the perfect spot for a family night filled with yummy food and good times.
Biergarten Riverwalk
Biergarten Riverwalk, a well-known spot in San Antonio, is gearing up for its annual Oktoberfest running from September 12 to November 21. Get ready for live German bands, spirited sing-alongs, a keg-tapping ceremony by a local celeb, fun games, giveaways, and huge steins of bubbly beer.
No need for tickets—just time your visit right for a lively and lively evening of celebration!
Read Also: A Look At San Antonio Largest Playground: Pearsall Park
Oktoberfest 2023 at Künstler Brewing
Get ready for a two-day blast at Künstler Brewing starting on September 16 and 17! It’s all about beer, food, and live music. Previous years have brought special menus featuring a grand Oktoberfest platter loaded with tasty German treats like pretzels, bratwursts, and potato salad—enough to satisfy 4 people. Details for this year’s event are still under wraps, but you’ll find updates on Künstler’s website or Facebook page. Keep your eyes peeled!
San Antonio Beer Festival
Mark your calendars for the 17th annual San Antonio Beer Festival happening on Saturday, October 21 at Crockett Park. Brace yourself for a lineup of over 400 craft beers ranging from ales, lagers, and pilsners to stouts and porters. But wait, there’s more! Alongside the brews, expect games, food trucks, and even wines and ciders for the non-beer enthusiasts.
Snag your early bird tickets starting at $40! Each ticket scores you 12 two-ounce beer samples from the wide selection of 400+ options, with the chance to grab 12 more samples for just $5 each.
Quick heads-up: This festival is a 21-and-over affair due to the abundance of free-flowing booze. Cheers responsibly!
Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg, TX
Make your way to Fredericksburg, TX, a scenic hour and a half northwest of San Antonio in the stunning Texas hill country, for a thrilling three-day fest of music, dancing, food, and drinks. Happening from October 6-8, it’s an Oktoberfest celebration that families adore—one of the most sought-after and wallet-friendly in the region! Tickets kick off at a mere $10 for adults, $1 for kids aged 7-12, and the little ones aged 6 and under get in for free. Get ready for a fantastic time!
Barktoberfest 2023 in Boerne, TX
Don’t miss Boerne’s 3rd annual Barktoberfest 2023 set for Saturday, October 21 at downtown Boerne’s main plaza. This fun-filled event is perfect for the whole family, blending the spirit of Oktoberfest with all things furry!
For the beer enthusiasts, there’s a chance to taste local brews, groove to live tunes, savor goodies from food trucks, and join in on the raffle. As for our furry friends, expect a petting zoo, doggy dash races, and opportunities for pet adoptions.
Best part? This awesome event is absolutely free! It’s made possible by the Hill Country Animal League, a nonprofit organization committed to providing affordable spay, neuter, and wellness services in the hill country area. It’s a celebration for a good cause!
Parktoberfest in Brackenridge Park
Mark your calendars for Brackenridge Park’s annual Parktoberfest happening on Sunday, September 24 from 2-5pm. This celebration pays homage to Oktoberfest in San Antonio while honoring the memory of Emma Koehler, whose generous donation of 11 acres to Brackenridge Park allowed legal beer consumption on the premises. (Fun fact: Emma Koehler was part of the Pearl Brewing family and the namesake of Hotel Emma!)
What’s in store? Live music and complimentary beer tastings await at the Koehler Pavilion, Cypress Pavilion, and the Pecan Grove. And here’s the best part—it’s all free! Admission is open to everyone, so come join the fun and raise a glass in celebration!
Beethoven Mäennechor
Since 1867, Beethoven Mäennechor has proudly stood as one of Texas’s oldest German singing societies. Annually, they roll out the traditional red carpet for Oktoberfest in their beer garden and music hall. This year, the celebration runs from October 6 to 14, featuring a lineup of German beers on tap, mouthwatering German cuisine, and heaps of cherished German melodies. It’s a festivity steeped in tradition and rich musical heritage!
148th Oktoberfest 2023 in Spring Branch, TX
Get ready for an incredible milestone—the 148th annual Oktoberfest in Spring Branch! It’s all happening on Sunday, October 22, running from 11am to 6pm at the Anhalt dance hall. This legendary event promises a day filled with fantastic music, delicious food, and tons of activities for the kids.
For entry, general admission begins at $10 per person. Or, if you’re up for a meal along with admission, it’s $20. Join in the fun and celebrate this long-standing tradition!
FAQs
When and where is Oktoberfest celebrated?
Oktoberfest is traditionally celebrated in Munich, Germany, starting in late September and usually running until the first Sunday in October. However, many cities around the world also host their own Oktoberfest celebrations, which may vary in timing.
Does San Antonio have an Oktoberfest?
Yes, San Antonio typically hosts its own Oktoberfest celebration. The event features traditional German music, food, and beer, creating a festive atmosphere. It’s advisable to check local event listings for specific dates and details.
When and where is Oktoberfest in Texas?
Oktoberfest celebrations take place in various cities throughout Texas, usually from late September to October. Locations can vary, with each city organizing its own festivities. Popular destinations for Oktoberfest celebrations in Texas include Fredericksburg, Addison, and, of course, San Antonio.
What is the big festival in San Antonio?
One of the major festivals in San Antonio is Fiesta San Antonio. This annual event, held in April, is a citywide celebration featuring parades, parties, and cultural events. Fiesta San Antonio commemorates the Battle of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto, offering a diverse range of activities for residents and visitors alike.
I’m Nicholas Clark, the creative soul behind “San Antonio Vista.” I’ve been bringing the city to life with stories and insights, and I want you to be a part of it. At San Antonio Vista, we’re all about making your exploration a masterpiece. Join me in the journey at San Antonio Vista, where every visit tells a unique story!
