McKinney, Texas – Dust off your lederhosen, practice your yodeling, and experience an immersive German-themed celebration in the heart of Downtown McKinney from Sept. 22-24. This year's Oktoberfest will be brimming with authentic German music, traditional costumes, and dancing and cuisine. From thrilling rides to engaging children's activities, there is something for the whole family at this three-day event.
“We're excited to introduce this year a VIP biergarten sponsored by Blue Box with upgraded beer and food options, which is perfect for those who enjoy an exclusive experience away from a bit of the hustle and bustle of the event,” said Cultural District Director Andrew Jones. “We are also bringing back our well-received ticketless system to make the process seamless and enjoyable for everyone in downtown.”
WHAT: McKinney Oktoberfest
WHEN: 2-11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23; and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24
WHERE: Historic Downtown McKinney
ADMISSION: Free
PARKING: Free parking and complimentary shuttle service available
INFO: www.mckinneyoktoberfest.com
NEW! THE BLUE BOX VIP BIERGARTEN
Experience McKinney Oktoberfest like never before in our exclusive Blue Box VIP Biergarten. This private experience offers a special retreat from the bustle of the festival, featuring exclusive craft beer not found anywhere else at Oktoberfest, delicious food offered by Rye, live beer hall-style music, and private restrooms. Pre-ordered tickets include special swag.
VIP Tickets: Buy Tickets Here
One-day pass: $35 (+$4.19 fee)
Multi-day pass: $95 ($8.22 fee)
SKIP THE TICKET LINE
Purchase Oktoberfest food, beer, and activities directly from the vendors. Credit cards and digital pay options such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay are encouraged. See sample pricing here.
OKTOBERFEST HAPPY HOUR SPECIALS
Take advantage of discounted beers from 2 - 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 22.
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, Sept. 22 at 6 p.m. at the Prost Stage.
- Marktplatz
Experience Bavarian craftsmanship and traditional wares at the Arts and Crafts Marktplatz.
- Meet the Brewmaster Sessions
Learn more about the craft beer served at McKinney Oktoberfest at TUPPS Brewery at 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24. Must be 21 to attend. 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 at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 23 (check-in from 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 4th annual competition at 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 22 will crown one lucky person the official beard/stache of McKinney. Free to register (limited to 30 contestants). - Hofbrau "Musskrugstemmen" Stein Holding Competition
Test your strength by holding a glass stein filled with beer from 6:30–8:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 23.
$25 fee to enter. Includes official Hofbrau stein and beer. - TUPPS Brat Eating Competition
Brat eating competition from 3–4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 24 to see who can eat the most brats in eight minutes. (Limited to 10 contestants). Free to register
Sponsors for Oktoberfest include McKinney Main Street, City of McKinney, Tumbleweed Texstyles, Texans Credit Union, Hofbrau, Blue Box, Renewal by Anderson, Sports Clips, Sheraton McKinney Hotel, Tupps Brewery, Visit McKinney, LJA Engineering, New York Life, Total Point ER, Alev Cosmetics, McKinney Community Development Corporation, and McKinney Economic Development Corporation.