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Wurstfest Grounds

4.6
·222 reviews·New Braunfels, United States

Texas's iconic Oktoberfest, celebrating German heritage with lively music, delicious food, and abundant beer in New Braunfels.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Comal River

Wurstfest Grounds

Best Time

Weekdays

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Texas's iconic Oktoberfest, celebrating German heritage with lively music, delicious food, and abundant beer in New Braunfels.

4.6
(222 reviews)

"This was our first year going and I could tell it will not be our last year going. The venues were all fun."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Buy Drink Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing drink tickets in advance, though you'll still need to collect them.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so prioritize comfort for a full day of fun.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

German Culture & Music

German Culture & Music

Various stages throughout the grounds

Immerse yourself in polka music, traditional German folk dances, and a lively atmosphere celebrating heritage.

Sausage & Beer Galore

Sausage & Beer Galore

Food stalls and beer tents

Savor authentic bratwurst, schnitzel, and a wide selection of Texas craft beers and German brews.

Kindertanzer Performances

Kindertanzer Performances

Designated performance areas

Watch local children perform traditional German folk dances – a charming and family-friendly spectacle.

Maibaum (Maypole)

Maibaum (Maypole)

Near Gate 1

Discover the history of New Braunfels etched in the symbols of this impressive German Maypole.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds

Wurstfest can get incredibly packed, especially on weekends. Arrive early or consider weekdays for a more relaxed experience. Planning your visit around specific performances can also help manage your time.

Ticket & Drink Strategy

Buying drink tickets online in advance can save time, though you'll still need to pick them up. Be prepared for potential lines, especially during peak hours. Consider a strategy for your group to minimize waiting.

Best Times

When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Early afternoons
Why
Before the peak evening rush
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings (weekdays)
Why
Lively atmosphere, fewer families
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Come out today to the Wurstfest grounds and experience the Hill Country Craft Beer Festival 🍻 put on by New Braunfels Rotary Club! All day 2pm-8pm! Great Texas Beers and Wines! #rotary #hillcountrycraftbeerfestival #nbtx #tarawilbanksrealtor #newbraunfelstexas #beer
taraonthemove830
6 likes • 370 views

🎯 Buy Drink Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing drink tickets in advance, though you'll still need to collect them. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so prioritize comfort for a full day of fun. Reddit

Wurstfest is only two days away, I hope your ready New Braunfels! We’ve been working hard here at CoPilot and are excited to have partnered with @thelocaltx and @wurstfest to bring you all some sweet merch that will be sold at the Wurstfest grounds starting Friday. Prost! #wurstfest #newbraunfels #wurst #10daysofsausage #innewbraunfels #prost #merch #apparel #appareldesign #graphicdesign #merchan...
copilotcreative
19 likes • 2.5K views
It was a packed house this year at our 12th Annual B4B, and the first year the @wurstfest allowed an outside organization to celebrate on those hallowed grounds . Bryleigh will continue to move mountains in '25, stay tuned! #flashback #b4b12 #dontstopbelieving #mldawareness
believing4bryleigh
37 likes • 603 views

👨‍👩‍👧 Stroller/Wagon Caution

On crowded days, wagons and strollers can be difficult to manage. Consider a baby carrier if needed. Reddit

🎶 Check the Music Schedule

Plan your visit around the polka bands and performances you want to see to maximize your experience. Reddit

Big cheers from Woods Indian Motorcycle We’re proud to be a sponsor of the 2025 Hill Country Craft Beer Festival at the Wurstfest Grounds in New Braunfels, Texas! From craft brews to good tunes and great vibes — we’re here to celebrate the spirit of Hill Country adventure. Whether you're raising a glass or revving an engine, we're riding with you through every adventure. #WoodsCycleCountry #HillC...
woodsindianmotorcyclenb
13 likes • 319 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Buy Drink Tickets Online

Save time by purchasing drink tickets in advance, though you'll still need to collect them. Reddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Are Key

You'll be doing a lot of walking and standing, so prioritize comfort for a full day of fun. Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧 Stroller/Wagon Caution

On crowded days, wagons and strollers can be difficult to manage. Consider a baby carrier if needed. Reddit

🎶 Check the Music Schedule

Plan your visit around the polka bands and performances you want to see to maximize your experience. Reddit

🍺 Sample Local Brews

Explore the variety of Texas craft beers and German imports available. Prost! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(222 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Wurstfest is widely praised for its authentic German atmosphere, lively polka music, and delicious food and beer. Visitors consistently highlight the fun, family-friendly activities and the vibrant community spirit. Some find it pricey, and crowds can be substantial, especially on weekends, requiring strategic planning for a smoother experience.

"So much fun, my family and I enjoyed it. That was our first time at this event, I recommend highly,can’t wait to go next year. However,was a little pricey!"

Cheryl ADA LEFLER

"We had the most wonderful time! This was our first year going and I could tell it will not be our last year going. The venues were all fun. The bands were amazing! The beer of course was on point! And all of the food trucks and the wonderful places to eat were wonderful. Love this, it was fun. It was peaceful. It was great. Thanks so much to the city of New Braunfels for sponsoring this event."

Yvonne J

"It was a very packed day when we went! Be prepared for massive crowds. It's hard to bring a wagon or stroller for your kids if you go on such a crowded day. We highly recommend the Kindertanzer performance. They are local children from New Braunfels who perform traditional German folk dances. The sausage was quite good, just messy (no napkins)."

Starnes Edits

What People Like

Authentic German culture
Live polka music
Great food and beer

What People Dislike

Can be pricey
Large crowds

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Wurstfest Grounds are located in New Braunfels, Texas. Driving is the most common method, with ample parking available during the festival. Public transportation options are limited, so carpooling or ride-sharing services are recommended. Check local New Braunfels transit for any event-specific shuttle services. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at the Wurstfest Grounds. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is advised. Some nearby businesses may also offer paid parking. Instagram

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are generally available in New Braunfels and can be a convenient way to get to and from the Wurstfest Grounds, especially if you plan on enjoying the beer. Be aware of potential surge pricing during peak festival times. Instagram

During the Wurstfest event, there may be some temporary road closures or detours around the grounds to manage traffic flow. It's advisable to check local traffic advisories or Wurstfest's official website for the most up-to-date information closer to your visit. Instagram

From San Antonio or Austin, driving is the most direct route. The Wurstfest Grounds are easily accessible via I-35. Consider carpooling with friends to share the driving and parking costs. The drive is typically around 45-60 minutes from both cities. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices for Wurstfest can vary. While some days might offer free entry, it's common to have an admission fee, especially on weekends. It's best to check the official Wurstfest website for the most current pricing and any special offers. Reddit

Yes, you can often purchase Wurstfest tickets online in advance. This is highly recommended, especially for weekend visits, as it can help you bypass the ticket purchase line upon arrival. Reddit

Wurstfest typically runs for 10 days, usually starting on a Friday and concluding on a Sunday. The daily operating hours can vary, with earlier openings on weekends and potentially later hours on some weekdays. Consult the official Wurstfest schedule for precise times. Instagram

Discounts may be available for certain groups or on specific days. Keep an eye on the official Wurstfest website or social media for any announcements regarding discounts for seniors, military, or early bird specials. Reddit

Re-entry policies can vary year to year. Generally, if you plan to leave and return on the same day, it's advisable to get your hand stamped at the exit. Always confirm the current re-entry policy with security at the gate before leaving. Reddit

🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience

Wurstfest is famous for its authentic German cuisine! Expect a wide variety of sausages (bratwurst, knackwurst, etc.), schnitzel, sauerkraut, potato pancakes, strudels, and other traditional German dishes. Food trucks and various vendors offer diverse options. InstagramReddit

You'll find a fantastic selection of German beers, as well as many Texas craft brews. They also offer wine, soft drinks, and water. Purchasing drink tickets is the standard method for buying beverages. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! Wurstfest offers activities for all ages, including carnival rides, face painting, and the charming Kindertanzer performances by local children. It's a great event for families to experience German culture together. InstagramReddit

The air at Wurstfest is filled with the sounds of live polka music! You'll find multiple stages with bands playing traditional German tunes, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. InstagramReddit

Don't miss the Maibaum (Maypole) near Gate 1, which tells the history of New Braunfels through its symbols. The Kindertanzer performances are also a unique highlight, showcasing local talent and tradition. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Capture the vibrant atmosphere with shots of the polka bands, people enjoying the food and beer, and the festive decorations. The Maibaum is a great landmark for a photo. Golden hour light can add a magical touch to your photos. Instagram

Yes, large crowds can make photography challenging. Try to find slightly less congested areas or shoot during off-peak hours. Using a wider lens can help capture the scene, or a telephoto lens to focus on details. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, making for better photo opportunities. Evenings can be atmospheric with the lights, but can also be very crowded. Reddit

Typically, drones are not permitted at large public events like Wurstfest due to safety and privacy concerns. Always check the official Wurstfest rules and regulations regarding drone usage before your visit. TikTok

Focus on capturing the energy: the musicians, dancers, people clinking beer steins, families enjoying the rides, and of course, the delicious food. Candid shots often tell the best stories. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Wurstfest is a fantastic destination for families! The grounds offer a dedicated kids' zone with face painting and carnival rides, ensuring entertainment for the little ones. Instagram A highlight for many families are the Kindertanzer performances, where local children showcase traditional German folk dances – it's charming and engaging for all ages. Reddit While the atmosphere is lively, it's important to note that on very crowded days, managing strollers or wagons can be difficult, so a baby carrier might be a more practical choice. Reddit

Beyond the specific kid-friendly attractions, the overall festive environment, coupled with diverse food options (including kid-friendly choices), makes it a memorable outing. Arriving earlier in the day or on a weekday can provide a more relaxed experience for families with young children, allowing them to enjoy the attractions without overwhelming crowds. Reddit

🍻 Beer Enthusiasts

For beer lovers, Wurstfest is a paradise. You'll find an extensive selection of German beers, from classic lagers to wheat beers, alongside a robust offering of Texas craft brews. Instagram The festival is a prime opportunity to sample unique local creations and traditional imports side-by-side. Purchasing drink tickets is the standard procedure, so consider buying in bulk if you plan on trying several different varieties. Reddit

Beyond just drinking, Wurstfest offers a chance to learn about different beer styles and enjoy them in a lively, communal atmosphere. Many attendees rave about the quality and variety of beverages available, making it a must-visit for anyone who appreciates a good pint. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Wurstfest: German Heritage

Wurstfest is more than just a festival; it's a vibrant celebration of New Braunfels' rich German heritage. The event meticulously recreates the atmosphere of a traditional Bavarian 'wurst' (sausage) festival. From the lively polka music that fills the air to the traditional folk dances performed by local children, every element is designed to immerse visitors in German culture. The Maibaum (Maypole), adorned with symbols representing the town's history, stands as a testament to this enduring legacy. Instagram+1

Visitors can expect authentic German food, including a wide array of sausages, schnitzel, and other culinary delights, paired with a generous selection of German beers and Texas craft brews. The festival grounds themselves are designed to evoke a festive European village, making it a truly transportive experience. It's this dedication to authenticity that has cemented Wurstfest as Texas's most iconic Oktoberfest celebration. InstagramReddit

Beyond the food and music, Wurstfest also fosters a strong sense of community. It's a place where locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate, share good food and drink, and enjoy the unique spirit of New Braunfels. The event has even evolved to host other community gatherings and festivals on its grounds, showcasing its importance as a central hub for local events. Instagram+1

Navigating the Festival: Tips for a Smooth Visit

Attending Wurstfest can be an incredible experience, but with its popularity comes crowds. To make the most of your visit, strategic planning is key. Many attendees recommend purchasing drink tickets online in advance to save time, though be prepared for a pickup line. Reddit For those with young children, navigating strollers or wagons can be challenging on busy days, so a baby carrier might be a more practical option. Reddit

When it comes to enjoying the festivities, checking the music schedule beforehand can help you catch your favorite polka bands and performances. The Kindertanzer shows, featuring local children performing traditional German dances, are a particular crowd-pleaser and a must-see for families. Reddit Comfortable footwear is essential, as you'll likely be on your feet for extended periods exploring the grounds, sampling food, and dancing to the music. Reddit

Consider visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours if you prefer a less crowded experience. This allows for easier movement, shorter lines for food and drinks, and a more relaxed atmosphere to soak in the German culture. Remember to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, and pace yourself with the delicious food and beverages. Reddit

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