Fredericksburg Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest celebrates Fredericksburg's German heritage with artisan vendors, a children's area, 50 varieties of American, regional, and imported beers, Texas Wine Country selections, great food, special events, five stages of continuous music, and fun all weekend long.
The annual Oktoberfest takes place at Marktplatz in beautiful downtown Fredericksburg, Texas, the first weekend of October. As one of the largest festivals of the year, planning ahead is a must.
Oktoberfest Fredericksburg, Texas Information
In 2025, Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg will be October 3-5. Future dates for Oktoberfest are October 2-4, 2026 and October 1-3, 2027.
The festival is open from 6 p.m. to midnight on Friday, 10 a.m. to midnight on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. Ticket prices are $15 for adults for a one-day pass, $20 for a two-day pass, and $25 for all three days. Children 7-12 are $1 for one day, $2 for two days, and $3 for three days. Children six and under are free.
History Behind Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg
When the Pedernales Creative Arts Alliance (PCAA) wanted a way to raise funds for local art projects, they considered Fredericksburg's history and German heritage. Hence, they dreamed up Oktoberfest and started the festival in 1981. Proceeds from the festival go towards scholarships for Gillespie County college-bound students who will study the arts. PCAA also awards grants for local art-related projects and hosts the free Marktplatz Musical Evenings in Fredericksburg to thank the community for its support.
Events and Vendors to Check Out
Oktoberfest features special events for great family fun, including a run, a chicken dance, a Polka contest, a 42 tournament, and a dirndl & lederhosen contest. Check their online events schedule for times.
Music is a highlight of Oktoberfest, and at any given time, there are five stages with live performers, and there's usually a strolling performer on the grounds. A full schedule of entertainment can be found on the event website.
Dozens of vendors participate in Oktoberfest, including local artisans offering authentic German clothing, jewelry, soaps, woodwork, pottery, handcrafted toys, photographs, vintage lamps, and much more. There are also German roasted nuts and other treats to delight the senses.
Kids can enjoy Kinder Park, which has a jumping castle and various games to entertain the little ones.
Delicious food is plentiful, including a wide range of German foods, including Kraut dogs, schnitzel, potato pancakes, and German tacos. You'll also find standard American festival fare and cold drinks, in addition to the extensive array of beers on tap and a nice selection of regional wines and frozen drinks.
Oktoberfest is the perfect way to enjoy October in Fredericksburg, Texas, and experience their German heritage in a fun, festive setting. If you can't make it to town for Oktoberfest weekend, any time during the fall is a great time to visit the Texas Hill Country. Start planning your visit today.
Resources to Plan a Future Visit
Our monthly visitor newsletter makes it quick and easy to plan your trip to Fredericksburg, Texas.
For years, Fredericksburg has been a favorite weekend destination of Texans, but these days the Texas Hill Country is one of the best places to visit during the week as well.
When is Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg, Texas?
Fredericksburg’s Oktoberfest takes place the weekend of the first Saturday of October each year. Here are future dates for Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg: October 4-6, 2024, October 3-5, 2025, and October 2-4, 2026.
Can I buy Fredericksburg, Texas Oktoberfest tickets online?
Yes. Tickets for Oktoberfest can be purchased in advanced online at the festival website: oktoberfestinfbg.com/tix.html. Festival goers are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance to speed up entry to the grounds.
How long does Oktoberfest last in Fredericksburg, Texas?
Oktoberfest is a three-day festival in the heart of downtown Fredericksburg. It takes over an entire city block with food, music, games, arts and crafts and more.
How do I pay for beer, wine, food and activities at Oktoberfest?
To purchase beer, wine or food and to participate in Kinderpark games at Oktoberfest, you will need to buy tickets at the festival. Cash and cards are not accepted at the food tents, beer halls or at Kinderpark. There are ticket booths and ATMs throughout the festival grounds, usually located near the entrances.
How can I get a ride to Oktoberfest?
The Fredericksburg Oktoberfest Park & Ride offers convenient parking and a safe ride by providing riders with all-day park and ride access between the Gillespie County Fair Grounds parking area and the Oktoberfest festival, located at Marktplatz in downtown Fredericksburg. Shuttles leave every 30 minutes. Adult tickets are $10.00 per person/day, and children 6 and under are free.
Park & Ride tickets are available for advance purchase on the Oktoberfest Park & Ride website until the Thursday before Oktoberfest weekend. Park & Ride tickets are also available at the Gillespie County Fair Grounds parking location during the festival. Tickets are non-refundable.
Please note, at this time, Park & Ride shuttles are not handicap accessible.
What is there to eat and drink at Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg, Texas?
Oktoberfest features more than 60 food and beverage choices, including German favorites such as bratwurst, potato pancakes, schnitzel, sauerkraut and strudel. There are also traditional festival items like funnel cakes, hamburgers, pretzels, popcorn and turkey legs. Drinks include taps for domestic, imported and Texas craft beers, wines from Texas and beyond, and lemonade.
Where is the best Oktoberfest in Texas?
Fredericksburg’s Oktoberfest is consistently ranked as one of the top Oktoberfest celebrations in the United States. The town’s deep German roots make the fall festival one of the most authentic in the country.