Celebrate German Traditions at Oktoberfest Fredericksburg
Founded by German immigrants in the mid-1800s, the Texas Hill Country’s German roots run deep. Communities in this region of Texas have worked to preserve their rich cultural heritage through architecture, food, music, and traditions. Nowhere is this more evident than in Fredericksburg, a charming city that pays homage to its past with Oktoberfest Fredericksburg. Every year, this festive celebration brings the Hill Country's German heritage to life through authentic German folk music, traditional foods, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Willkommen!
This beloved festival returns for its 44th year from October 4-6, 2024, and it's Fredericksburg’s largest event of the year. Held in big tents on the Marktplatz in the center of the city, Oktoberfest blends Fredericksburg’s rich German heritage with Texas hospitality. Founded in 1981 by the Pedernales Creative Arts Alliance (PCAA), this three-day celebration supports local art projects and student scholarships along the way.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of Germany with oompah music filling the air and five stages of live entertainment all weekend long. The Tubameisters will be back with their tuba quartet, bringing humor and traditional tunes from Germany and Austria, while The Seven Dutchmen Orchestra celebrate their 40th year performing at Oktoberfest. For those looking to tap into something even more unique, don’t miss Yodel Blitz, where lightning-fast yodeling meets German folk music. These are just a sample of the more than two dozen musical acts that will perform throughout the festival weekend.
No Oktoberfest is complete without delicious food and drinks! Fredericksburg's festival is a culinary trip through classic German flavors. Dive into bratwurst, currywurst, a schnitzel plate, potato pancakes, sauerkraut, pretzels, and apple strudel. There’s also plenty of domestic fare, if that’s more your style. Wash it all down with a wide selection of domestic, imported, and Texas craft beers. Of course, you’ll find your favorite German breweries represented, like Hofbrau, Spaten, and Weihenstephan. Wine drinkers can enjoy whites, reds and roses from Texas, the U.S., and Germany—don't skip the crisp German Riesling or Liebfraumilch. All total, you'll have a selection of more than 50 beers and wines to choose from!
Feeling competitive? Try your hand at the waltz or polka dance contests, stein hoist competition, or even a high striker contest. Participate in the Rotary Kraut Run or the 42 Domino Tournament. And don’t forget to check out the Artisan Market, featuring hand-woven textiles, pottery, leather goods, and jewelry, or maybe even snag your first Dirndl or Lederhosen.
Located just a 25-minute drive from Hotel Giles, this event is the perfect day trip from our historic bed-and-breakfast. Grab your lederhosen and your tickets, and come experience gemütlichkeit—the German word for coziness, warmth and friendliness—at Oktoberfest Fredericksburg. Prost!
