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Prost! Oktoberfest returns to Downtown McKinney September 25–27
By City of McKinney
Aug 3, 2026
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Presented by Tomes Auto Group, enjoy free admission and three days of Oktoberfest fun.

McKinney, Texas – Celebrate fall in Historic Downtown McKinney during one of Texas' most beloved festivals. McKinney Oktoberfest, presented by Tomes Auto Group, brings Bavarian tradition to life with live music, cultural performances, interactive games, authentic flavors, and family-friendly fun all weekend long.

 

 

"We're thrilled to welcome the community back for another unforgettable McKinney Oktoberfest," said Andrew Jones, Cultural District Director. "Whether you're coming for the Bavarian cuisine, authentic German beer, live music, shopping, or family-friendly activities, this festival offers something for everyone."

 

Historic Downtown McKinney will come alive with polka music, folk dancing, festive décor, authentic German cuisine, local and imported beers, artisan shopping, and activities for all ages. From stein-holding competitions and weenie dog races to live performances throughout the weekend, McKinney Oktoberfest remains one of North Texas' premier fall festivals.

 

DATES:          Friday, Sept. 25, 2-11 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 26, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, Sept. 27, noon to 5 p.m.

ADMISSION: Free with add-ons
PARKING:     Free parking and complimentary shuttle service available
MORE INFO: www.mckinneyoktoberfest.com

 

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

 

Authentic German Food

Savor the flavors of Oktoberfest with authentic German favorites including bratwurst, sausages, schnitzel, warm strudel, roasted almonds, funnel cakes, and more.

 

German Bier & Local Wine

Raise a stein with authentic German bier from Hofbräu alongside local favorites from TUPPS Brewery. Prefer wine? Enjoy selections from Landon Winery and Lone Star Cellars.

 

Live Entertainment

Three stages throughout Historic Downtown McKinney will feature continuous live entertainment, including traditional polka bands, German musicians, folk dancers, and festive performances all weekend long.

 

Marktplatz

Browse the Arts & Crafts Marktplatz, featuring handcrafted goods, Bavarian-inspired merchandise, artisan creations, and unique shopping from local vendors.

 

 

SIGNATURE EVENTS

 

Keg Tapping Ceremony & Parade

Kick off the festivities during the annual Keg Tapping Ceremony on Friday, September 25, at 6 p.m. on the Blue Box Stage, followed by the traditional Oktoberfest Parade.

 

Meet the Brewmaster Sessions

Beer enthusiasts can learn about the brewing process and sample craft beers during the Meet the Brewmaster Sessions at the TUPPS Brewery area. Saturday, September 26, at 4 p.m. Guests must be 21 or older to participate.

 

EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES

 

Choctaw Casinos and Resorts VIP Biergarten (21+)

Upgrade your Oktoberfest experience with exclusive access to the Choctaw Casinos and Resorts VIP Biergarten. This private retreat features specialty craft beers unavailable elsewhere at the festival, delicious food, live beer hall-style music, and exclusive VIP restrooms.

VIP weekend packages include:

Commemorative Oktoberfest stein 
Official McKinney Oktoberfest pin
Exclusive VIP Oktoberfest T-shirt
One beer voucher
One food voucher

Oktoberfest Happy Hour

Enjoy discounted beers on Friday, September 25, from 2:00–4:30 p.m., making it the perfect way to kick off your Oktoberfest weekend.

COMPETITIONS & CONTESTS

Weenie Dog & Wannabe Dog Races
One of McKinney Oktoberfest's most beloved traditions returns as more than 70 dachshunds—and their "wannabe" canine friends—race for bragging rights as Top Dog.

Saturday, September 26
Check-in: 10–11 a.m.
Weenie Dog Races: 12–2 p.m.
Wannabe Dog Races: 2–5 p.m.

Beard & Mustache Competition
Think you have McKinney's most impressive facial hair? Enter the 7th Annual Beard & Mustache Competition for a chance to be crowned the official beard (or mustache) of McKinney. Limited to 30 contestants.

Friday, September 25
Competition begins at 8 p.m.

Hofbräu "Masskrugstemmen" Stein Holding Competition
Test your strength and endurance in this traditional German stein-holding competition. Participants compete to see who can hold a full stein of beer the longest.

Saturday, September 26
6:30–8:30 p.m.
$30 entry fee includes an official Hofbräu stein and beer.

TUPPS Brat Eating Competition
How many bratwursts can you eat in eight minutes? Join the annual brat-eating challenge for a chance to claim Oktoberfest bragging rights. Limited to 10 contestants.

Saturday, September 26
3–4 p.m.

SPONSORS
Event partners include Tomes Auto Group, Choctaw Casinos and Resorts, Blue Box, McKinney National Airport DTX, Kroger, Texans Credit Union, Leafguard, Big Bully Turf, Sheraton McKinney, Tupps Brewery, Hofbrau, Visit McKinney, McKinney Community Development Corporation, Alev Cosmetics, and McKinney Economic Development Corporation