Wurstfest in New Braunfels

Dust off your Alpine hat and break out the lederhosen; it’s time for Wurstfest! On the first Friday of November, this legendary “Ten-Day Salute to Sausage” fills the lovely Hill Country town of New Braunfels with polka music, thousands of revelers in traditional German garb, and the aromatic smell of hot bratwurst.

From the moment the festival officially kicks off with the opening ceremonies - featuring the ceremonial “biting of the sausage” and symbolic tapping of a keg of beer - the party only stops to let folks sleep a few hours or attend one of the many local events. Live music by as many as 30 German bands, orchestras, yodelers, and other performers; waltz, polka, and beer stein-holding contests; a midway with rides; food vendors; kids’ activities ... the entertainment is as bottomless as the beer pitchers. Speaking of beer, downing cold brew is a joy unto itself. Take your pick from 55 of the Opas’ favorite craft, Oktoberfest, import, and domestic beers on tap, along with wine and distilled spirits.

In 2014, the festival unveiled an expansion along the Comal River known as the Stelzenplatz, and the new grounds have proven to be a fantastic addition to the Wurstfest experience. The expansion has allowed for as many as 20 more vendors, a craft beer garden with 35 offerings (including two from New Braunfels’ own breweries), a fifth music stage, more carnival rides, and a convenient place to enjoy views of the beautiful Comal River. 

During the festival’s off hours, New Braunfels is still buzzing with activity thanks to the baker’s dozen of Wurst-related special events happening around town. The Wurst Arts and Crafts Show on the Main Plaza in the New Braunfels Utilities parking lot is a perennial favorite for festival-goers, as is the Wurstfest Regatta at Canyon Lake. If you’re looking for a way to work up a good appetite, join the Walkfest, Tour de Gruene Bicycle Classic, Wurst Five Mile Run in Landa Park, or the Wurst Open at Landa Park Golf Course. In the fine arts department, there’s the sausage-themed “Phantom of the Wurst” at Circle Arts Theatre, and ARToberfest at the New Braunfels Art League Gallery. Visit Wurstfest’s website for more information on all the local events happening in New Braunfels during the festival.

Wurstfest is one of New Braunfels top annual events, so buy your tickets and book your lodgings early. That way you’ll be guaranteed to be on-hand for Wurstfest, a Texas German festival like no other. Prost!