It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and no, we’re not talking about Christmas. It’s Wurstfest season — time to break out the lederhosen and raise a stein.
Wurstfest is returning to New Braunfels for another 10 days of German food, cold beer, live music, and plenty of Gemütlichkeit.
Running November 6–15, 2026, the annual festival transforms the Wurstfest grounds near Landa Park into one of the biggest parties of the year in New Braunfels. Visitors can expect everything from bratwurst and schnitzel to polka bands, carnival rides, dancing, and traditional German entertainment.
Whether you’ve been attending for decades or you’re planning your first visit, a little preparation can make the experience even better.
Here’s what to know before heading to Wurstfest this year.
Sponsored by Royce Staley, Cruise Planners
Wurstfest was recently named the best Oktoberfest celebration in the country by Southern Living, and it’s an event that makes you feel like you’re really in Germany celebrating. But if you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing the real thing, our local partner Royce Staley with Cruise Planners can help make it happen!
Royce has traveled to more than 30 countries and specializes in helping people plan unforgettable vacations, from European adventures and river cruises to all-inclusive resorts and bucket-list trips around the world. Whether you’re dreaming of Oktoberfest in Munich, exploring charming German villages, or cruising along the Rhine River, Royce can help you put together the perfect trip.
And the best part? There’s no additional cost to use his travel-planning services! If you’re thinking about a European getaway in 2027 or have another dream destination in mind, give Royce a call or text at (830) 360-5548, or visit www.lonestarelitelandandsea.com to start planning.
When Is Wurstfest 2026?
- November 6–15, 2026
- Wurstfest Grounds, 120 Landa Street, New Braunfels
- Admission varies by day, with several opportunities to get in free
This year marks the 65th annual Wurstfest, with more than 40 bands, five entertainment stages, and over 250 scheduled performances throughout the festival.
Wurstfest Hours and Admission Prices
One of the best ways to save money at Wurstfest is to choose your day carefully. Admission is free Monday through Thursday, and children 12 and under get in free every day.
Here’s the complete 2026 schedule:
Date Festival hours Online admission Fri., Nov. 6 4–11 PM $15 Sat., Nov. 7 11 AM–midnight $25 Sun., Nov. 8 11 AM–10 PM $15 Mon., Nov. 9 5–10 PM Free Tue., Nov. 10 5–10 PM Free Wed., Nov. 11 5–10 PM Free Thu., Nov. 12 5–11 PM Free Fri., Nov. 13 5–11 PM $15 Sat., Nov. 14 11 AM–midnight $25 Sun., Nov. 15 11 AM–10 PM $15; free after 3 PM
Tickets purchased at the gate cost $20 on Fridays and Sundays and $30 on Saturdays, so buying online saves $5 per person on paid admission days. Food, drinks, and carnival rides cost extra.
What to Eat and Drink at Wurstfest
Food is a huge part of the Wurstfest experience, and you’ll find much more than just sausage.
Traditional German favorites are everywhere, from bratwurst and sauerkraut to schnitzel, pretzels, potato pancakes, and plenty of sweet treats. Part of the fun is walking through the grounds, browsing the different food booths, and trying a few things you might not normally order.
Many of the food vendors are operated by local nonprofit organizations, so buying something to eat is also a way to support groups doing good work around New Braunfels.
Of course, there’s plenty to drink, too. Wurstfest offers German, Texan, and domestic beers, along with other beverage options.
One useful thing to know before arriving: bars accept credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay, but food vendors may require cash. It’s worth bringing some along rather than assuming every booth takes cards.
Live Music, Dancing, and Entertainment
Wurstfest is known for its lively entertainment, and the 2026 lineup includes an impressive mix of returning favorites and special performances.
The schedule features Grammy-winning polka musician Jimmy Sturr and his Orchestra, accordionist Alex Meixner, the Walburg Boys, and dozens of other performers. You’ll find everything from traditional German music and yodeling to polka, waltzes, and plenty of opportunities to dance.
There are also special competitions and activities, including a stein-holding championship, polka and waltz contests, and yodeling competitions. Families can check out the Kinderhalle, which features children’s entertainment such as bubble shows and other activities.
If there’s a particular band you want to see, check the schedule ahead of time. Performances happen across multiple stages, and it’s easy to miss something if you don’t have a plan.
See the complete 2026 entertainment schedule
Parking and Transportation: Plan Ahead
Parking is one of the biggest challenges during Wurstfest, especially on Friday and Saturday evenings.
The city warns that parking near the festival grounds is limited and that nearby lots can fill up early on high-attendance days. Fortunately, there are several alternatives to driving directly to the entrance. New Braunfels
Take the Official Park & Ride Shuttle
One of the easiest options is the official Wurstfest Park & Ride service from the Comal County Fairgrounds at 701 Common Street.
Parking at the fairgrounds is free, and the shuttle costs $10 per person ages 13 and older. Children 12 and under ride free. No reservations are necessary, and shuttles run continuously until the festival closes.
The first shuttle departs at 3:45 p.m. on opening Friday, 10:45 a.m. on weekend days, and 4:45 p.m. on weekdays. Remember that the shuttle fare does not include festival admission.
Use Uber, Lyft, or Another Ride Service
If you plan on enjoying a few beers, using a rideshare service or arranging a designated driver is a good idea.
For 2026, the designated rideshare pickup and drop-off area is Landa Park Pavilion #16 on Mill Race Run, rather than directly outside the festival entrance. Wurstfest recommends using Gate #2 for easier access to this area.
Make sure everyone in your group knows where to meet before leaving the grounds.
Watch for Road Closures Around Landa Park
Even if you’re not attending Wurstfest, expect some traffic changes around Landa Park throughout the festival.
The city will close the westbound lane of Landa Street between Zink Street and Landa Park Drive during designated hours. The lane will remain open to pedestrians.
Closures begin as early as 2 p.m. on opening Friday and 9 a.m. on weekend days. Weekday closures begin at 3 p.m. and continue until midnight. Saturday closures extend until 2 a.m.
Residents who regularly use Landa Street should consider alternate routes, particularly during evening hours.
See the city’s complete 2026 traffic and parking advisory
Tips for Making the Most of Wurstfest
A few simple decisions can help you spend more time enjoying the festival and less time dealing with crowds, lines, and parking.
Take Advantage of Free Admission Days
Monday through Thursday are completely free, and admission is also free after 3 p.m. on Sunday, November 15. If you live in New Braunfels and have a flexible schedule, these are excellent opportunities to enjoy Wurstfest without paying for admission.
Visit Earlier in the Day With Kids
Families may prefer arriving when gates open at 11 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. This gives younger visitors time to explore, enjoy the Kinderhalle, and check out the carnival before the evening crowds arrive.
Check the Entertainment Schedule Before You Go
With so many performers across multiple stages, it’s worth choosing a few must-see acts in advance. You can also plan around special competitions, sausage-making demonstrations, and children’s entertainment.
Dress Comfortably and Be Ready for the Weather
You’ll likely spend plenty of time walking and standing, so comfortable shoes are a good idea. November temperatures in New Braunfels can change quickly, especially after sunset, so consider bringing a light jacket.
Wurstfest takes place rain or shine, and there are no scheduled rain dates.
Know What You Can Bring
Outside food and drinks, coolers, pets other than trained service animals, and personal chairs are not permitted. Bags are subject to inspection, and metal detectors are used at entrances.
If you’re planning to enjoy an adult beverage, bring a physical, state-issued ID. Digital and paper IDs are not accepted.
Don’t Forget About Re-Entry
Admission tickets are valid for the entire day. If you need to leave and return later, make sure you get your hand stamped at the gate before exiting.
Make Wurstfest Part of Your New Braunfels Tradition
Whether you’re going for the German food, the music, the dancing, or simply an excuse to spend time with friends and family, Wurstfest is one of those events that makes fall in New Braunfels special.
With 10 days of entertainment, free admission opportunities, and plenty of ways to experience the festivities, you don’t have to spend a fortune to join in the fun.
Just plan your transportation, check the entertainment schedule, bring your appetite, and enjoy one of New Braunfels’ longest-running traditions.
For tickets, updates, and the full festival schedule, visit Wurstfest.com.