McKinney, Texas – Dust off your lederhosen, practice your yodeling, and experience an immersive German-themed celebration in the heart of Downtown McKinney.
"We are excited to announce the return of McKinney Oktoberfest, where the heart of German tradition meets the soul of McKinney's community spirit," said Cultural District Director Andrew Jones. "This year's festival promises an authentic cuisine, craft beer, lively music, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Join us for a weekend of Oktoberfest right here in Downtown McKinney.”
Get ready for this year's Oktoberfest - it's going to be a one-of-a-kind celebration overflowing with genuine German music, traditional costumes, and dancing. Attendees can enjoy delicious German food and drinks while taking part in a variety of activities perfect for all ages. There is something for everyone at this three-day festival!
WHAT: McKinney Oktoberfest
WHEN: Friday, Sept. 27, 2-11 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 28, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, Sept. 29, noon to 5 p.m.
WHERE: Historic Downtown McKinney
ADMISSION: Free
PARKING: Free parking and complimentary shuttle service available
EXCLUSIVE BLUE BOX VIP BIERGARTEN
This private VIP experience offers a special retreat from the bustle of the festival, featuring exclusive craft beer not found anywhere else at Oktoberfest, delicious food offerings, live beer hall-style music, and VIP exclusive restrooms. Pre-ordered VIP weekend packages include a commemorative Stein, the official McKinney Oktoberfest pin, an exclusive VIP Oktoberfest t-shirt, a beer voucher, and one food item voucher. Join us for an upgraded Oktoberfest adventure in the Blue Box VIP Biergarten, where great drinks, delicious food, and a unique atmosphere come together. The VIP area is 21 and older only. Buy Tickets Here
SKIP THE TICKET LINE
Oktoberfest is ticketless - save time with fewer lines! Credit cards and digital pay options are encouraged. Purchase Oktoberfest food, beer, and activities directly from the vendors. Bring your credit/debit card, or use your favorite mobile wallet, such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay. See sample pricing here.
OKTOBERFEST HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS
Take advantage of discounted beers from 2:00 - 4:30 p.m. on Friday, September 27, 2024.
ACTIVITIES
- Authentic German Food
McKinney Oktoberfest features brats, sausages, schnitzel, strudel, funnel cakes, roasted almonds, and more.
- Biers and Wines of Oktoberfest
Guests can enjoy authentic German flavors from Hofbrau and TUPPS Brewery. Wine from Landon Winery and Lone Star Cellars will be available.
- Live Entertainment
Enjoy polka bands and live entertainers from three stages located throughout Downtown McKinney. - Keg Tapping and Parade
The annual keg tapping tradition continues Friday at 6 p.m. at the Prost Stage!
- Marktplatz
Experience Bavarian craftsmanship as well as traditional wares at the Arts and Crafts Marktplatz! - Meet the Brewmaster Sessions
Learn more about the craft beer served at McKinney Oktoberfest located at TUPPS Brewery. Must be 21 to attend. Saturday, September 28 at 4 p.m. Register here.
CONTESTS
- Weenie Dog Races
Over 70 weenie dogs and wannabes (all other breeds) meet at McKinney Oktoberfest to see who the top dog will be.
Saturday, Sept. 28 at 11:30 a.m. (Check-in 10-11 a.m.)
12 -2 p.m. - Weenie Dog Races
2 -5 p.m. - Wannabe Dog Races
Free to register
- Beard & Mustache Competition
The 5th annual competition will crown one lucky person the official beard/stache of McKinney.
Friday, September 27 at 8 p.m. Free to register (Limited to 30 contestants).
- Hofbrau "Musskrugstemmen" Stein Holding Competition
Strength competition with participants holding a glass stein filled with beer.
Saturday, Sept. 28, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
$30 fee to enter. Includes official Hofbrau stein and beer.
- TUPPS Brat Eating Competition
Brat eating competition to see who can eat the most brats in eight minutes. Sunday, Sept. 29, from 3-4 p.m. (Limited to 10 contestants). Free to register
Sponsors for Oktoberfest include McKinney Main Street, City of McKinney, Tomes Auto Group, Tumbleweed Texstyles, Texans Credit Union, Hofbrau, Blue Box, Sports Clips, Sheraton McKinney Hotel, Tupps Brewery, Visit McKinney, LJA Engineering, Alev Cosmetics, McKinney Community Development Corporation, and McKinney Economic Development Corporation.