The Fort Worth Oktoberfest has released its schedule for 2026. The German-style festival has become the official start of fall in Fort Worth. Oktoberfest will run from September 24 through 26 , and tickets are on sale now.
The entrance to the ultimate Bavarian bash is at Trinity Park, on Farmhouse Way near the Van Zandt Cottage across the street from Farrington Field. Festivalgoers can enjoy Paulaner Festzelt, a large, air-conditioned Bierhalle. Multiple other large tented or shaded areas will have seating and entertainment, This includes the Van Zandt Zelt, Food Haus, Aktivität Tent, and a shaded Hacker-Pschorr Biergarten. It’s a Bavarian dreamscape in Cowtown.
This year’s Fort Worth Oktoberfest lineup includes over 50 German polka party bands and traditional performances on three stages. It’s your annual opportunity to “experience Oktoberfest with the best Bavarian food, bier, polka dancing and fun,” according to a release
Oktoberfest Leads Off With Tapping of the Kegs
Thursday’s ceremonial ‘Tapping of the Kegs’ will once again launch the event. “The festival continues through Saturday with Oktoberfest Olympics, carnival rides, dachshund races, Brat Eating Contest, bier barrel rolling, stein hoist competitions, and a 5k run.”
The stages will come alive with traditional music and dance. Grammy-nominated Alex Meixner Band, Das Ist Lustig, Alpenmusikanten, Walburg Boys, Lederhosen Junkies, Off the Grid Band, Mike & the Middletones, Keine Kunst Folk Dance Troupe, TSV d’Holzar will all take a turn. “And returning all the way from Bavaria, the Happy Hour Oktoberfestband,” will also be playing.
“German biers will be on tap, including presenting sponsor Paulaner, as well as Hacker-Pschorr.” They are among the six breweries serving at the original Oktoberfest in Munich dating back to the 19th century. Skip the airline tickets and take a trip to Trinity Park this September.
German Food, Shady Biergartens and More
Beyond the beir, there will be traditional German food as well. Snack on bratwursts, pretzels, strudel, currywurst, schnitzel, and German potato pancakes. Plus, a collection of carnival food favorites. “Festivalgoers can enjoy entertainment in the air-conditioned Paulaner Festzelt, Van Zandt Zelt, and multiple shaded biergartens,” according to the festival.
The Marktplatz will feature an array of traditional German collectibles and clothing too. Here you’ll find handmade jewelry, woodwork, art, condiments, baked goods, leather accessories, and more to peruse.
Festival tickets range from $10 to $20 and are available for purchase online. Admission is free for children under 12 years of age with a paying adult.
Visit www.fortworthoktoberfest.com for the full schedule and to purchase tickets.