Not everyone can make it out to Munich, Germany for the Oktoberfest that happens there each year. Fortunately, there are Oktoberfests that happen all over the world and bring the experience closer to home. For example, Mckinney, TX hosts an Oktoberfest you won’t want to miss.
If you are thinking of visiting McKinney to check out the Oktoberfest there, here’s an idea of what you can expect.
About McKinney Oktoberfest
The McKinney Oktoberfest takes place over three weekend days in late November. In 2022, it spanned from Friday to September 23- Sunday September 25. It kicks off with a Friday happy hour from 2 to 4:30 PM. Then hours are as follows:
• Friday: 5-11 PM
• Saturday 11 AM – 11 PM
• Sunday noon – 5 PM
It all goes down in Historic Downtown McKinney
Activities and Events
Here are the activities and events McKinney Oktoberfest has to offer:
Parade: The parade kicks off Oktoberfest and includes a high energy drum line and people in traditional dress. It starts on Friday afternoon at 6 PM and winds through the festival grounds ending with the keg-tapping ceremony.
The Bavarian Stage Experience: The Bavarian Stage will be the site of Polka and German dance lessons. It will also be featuring live music, talks with Tupps brewmasters, the stein-holding competition and the brat eating contest.
Carnival: The carnival will be located on the west side of the festival grounds adjacent to Mitchell Park. It offers a variety of rides and games. Coupons for the rides can be purchased on and near the festival grounds.
Gemuetlichkeit (Goodwill) Games
Hosted by the Lion’s Club, these games will infuse excitement into the event. They include:
• Beer stein races (root beer/water only)
• Marionette drinking game (root beer water only)
• Weenie dog races
• Wannabe races
Hofbrau Stein-Holding Competion: This competition requires contestants to hold out a full stein of beer weighing five pounds with their arm outstretched. The one who can hold out the longest wins.
Music and Dance Schedule: The event will be hosting two main stages showcasing traditional dance performances, polka bands, Alpine dance troupes, live music and more. You will also see accordion players and other entertainers strolling throughout the festival grounds.
Petting Zoo: The interactive petting zoo allows children and adults to get up close and personal with goats, sheep, horses, mules, donkeys, pot belly pigs, cows, llamas, and alpacas. Admission is five coupons for adults and children. However, children may have an adult accompany them free of charge.
Kinder Korner: The Kinder Korner will feature kids’ activities like face painting, rock wall climbing, bounce houses and German crafts.
Brat Eating Contest: The second annual brat eating contest will be happening on Sunday from 3-4 PM on the Bavarian Experience Stage. The winner will receive a prize package from TUPPS Brewery and bragging rights. It is free to enter and limited to 10 competitors.
Beard & Mustache Competition: One lucky man will be crowned the official beard/stache of McKinney. He will win a gift basket of Olivina beard toiletries. The event takes place on Friday at 8 PM on the Bavarian Experience Stage.
Sportlich Zone: Come to the Sportlich Zone to enjoy beer and sports broadcast on the TV.
Weenie Dog Race: Over 70 dogs will race on Saturday to see who will claim the title of the Fastest Weenie of McKinney Oktoberfest. Registration is free. Guests can make donations to a local dog charity on the site.
Meet the Brewmaster: Beer enthusiasts can attend to find out the ins and outs of making the perfect brew from a TUPPS Brewery local brew master. The event is free to the public, but you must reserve a seat in advance. Only 30 spots are available. You also must be 21 or over to attend. It takes place at the TUPPs Brewery on Saturday at 4 PM.
Not everyone can make it out to Germany for the official Oktoberfest. Fortunately, cities like McKinney, TX bring the experience closer to home. Will you be attending next season’s event?
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