Cheers! Here’s everything you need to know about Fort Worth Oktoberfest 2025
Editor’s note: The above video is from 2019.
Every September in Munich, Germany, millions pack into tents for the world’s largest beer festival a tradition that’s been going strong for more than 200 years.
Picture long wooden tables where strangers become friends over overflowing steins, brass bands keeping the polka beat alive, and platters of sausages carried out faster than they can be eaten.
You don’t have to fly across the ocean to get that experience, though. Each fall, Fort Worth puts its own spin on the celebration, turning Trinity Park into a Bavarian-style village.
Guests trade cowboy boots for lederhosen, line up for bratwursts and cheer as dachshunds in jerseys race to the finish line. This year’s Fort Worth Oktoberfest runs Sept. 25–27 with three days of food, contests, rides and plenty of beer.
Here’s what to know.
When is Fort Worth Oktoberfest?
Mark your calendar for Thursday, Sept. 25 through Saturday, Sept. 27.
Thursday and Friday nights are all about the music and contests, running from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Saturday is the big day, stretching from 11 a.m. until midnight with the most events packed in.
Where is it happening?
The festival takes over Trinity Park in Fort Worth, near the Van Zandt Cottage across from Farrington Field.
Guest can park at Farrington Field on 1501 University Drive.
Catching a ride share, biking or walking in? Use 2933 Farmhouse Way as the GPS address. There’s also overflow parking at the Dickies Yellow Lots, Gate 43 and 51 on Trail Drive.
What can I expect?
Think of it as Fort Worth’s version of Munich’s big party: live bands, stein-hoisting contests, carnival rides and more sausage than you can eat in one weekend.
You’ll hear polka music pouring out of the tents, smell bratwursts on the grill, and probably see a few dachshunds in costume.
Some highlights this year:
- Live music from Alex Meixner Band and Das Ist Lustig
- German food and beer flowing in the Paulaner Festzelt and Food Haus
- Old-school contests like stein hoisting, bier barrel rolling and brat-eating competitions
- Entertainment for all ages, including carnival rides and a 5K run
What are the tents like?
Each tent has its own feel, so you can pick your vibe:
- Paulaner Festzelt: This is the main tent. It’s air-conditioned, has more than 900 seats, and is home to nightly contests.
- Van Zandt Zelt: Open-air with room to dance and plenty of tables.
- Hacker-Pschorr Biergarten: Tucked under the trees for a laid-back, backyard feel with games like giant Jenga and cornhole.
- Food Haus: Where you’ll grab your bratwursts, pretzels and other German staples.
- Aktivität Tent: This is the action hub. Dachshund races, Oktoberfest Olympics and bier barrel rolling all happen here.
Is it family friendly?
Yes. Kids can hit the carnival rides and games, and parents can still enjoy the music and food. Children 12 and under get in free with a paying adult.
Can I bring my dog?
Oktoberfest is not dog-friendly, except for dachshunds participating in the Saturday Dachshund Dash (registration required).
What can I bring?
Bring the basics and keep it light. Small bags (under 17”) are fine, and you can carry in your favorite stein from home. Strollers, wheelchairs and scooters are allowed too.
What not to bring: outside food or drinks (except for baby needs and one sealed water bottle per person), alcohol, coolers, chairs, weapons, pets or big umbrellas.
How do I get tickets?
Tickets are available online here. Buying early not only guarantees your spot, it also comes with perks like a free commemorative stein while supplies last.
Here’s the breakdown of pricing:
- 3-day pass (Sept. 25–27): $20 (best value)
- Thursday, Sept. 25: $10
- Friday, Sept. 26: $15
- Saturday, Sept. 27: $15
If you buy your ticket online before Wednesday, Sept. 24 at 11:59 p.m., you’re guaranteed a free 2025 Oktoberfest stein. A limited number of steins will also be available for those purchasing at the gate.
This story was originally published September 22, 2025 at 12:43 PM.
