Wurstfest kicks off its 63rd year of music, food and fun in New Braunfels

NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas – It’s a big weekend in New Braunfels as this year’s Wurstfest is officially underway as the beloved German heritage festival kicks off its 63rd year.

People can enjoy great food and drinks, music, dancing, carnival rides and Alpine and Bavarian-style games and entertainment, all to help serve the community that puts it on each year.

The festival opens at 16.00 today with opening ceremonies and the annual ‘sausage bite’ planned for 17.30 in the Wursthalle.

Wurstfest hours are:

• Fridays – 5-11 pm
• Saturdays – 11am to midnight
• Sunday – 11.00-22.00
• Monday to Thursday – 17-22

This annual celebration of sausage making and cultural traditions promises an exciting lineup that draws attendees from near and far. Festival goers are encouraged to put on their quirky ‘chicken hats’, lace up their dancing shoes and prepare to raise their stones to celebrate authentic German cuisine and entertainment. With Landa Park’s beautiful backdrop along the picturesque Comal River, Wurstfest not only highlights New Braunfel’s rich German roots, but also serves as a community hub, bringing locals and visitors together for a lively and engaging experience.

This year’s entertainment lineup is as impressive as ever, featuring over 40 bands spanning multiple genres and cultures. With five stages and multiple dance areas, festival goers can enjoy more than 250 live performances from a wide variety of musicians.

Opening ceremonies will feature Grammy-winning polka artist Jimmy Sturr and his orchestra, as well as talented accordionist Alex Meixner, known for his high-energy performances. Also joining the lineup are traditional acts like Munchholzhauser Blaskapella from Braunfels, Germany and New York-based Die Schlauberger.

Long-time festival goers can look forward to the return of Squeezebox with Mollie B, who were celebrated as International Band of the Year in 2019.

“Music has been an integral part of the Wurstfest celebration since its inception in 1961,” noted 2024 Wurstfest President Sherman Krause, who emphasized the role classic German genres play in creating a festive and inclusive atmosphere.

Wurstfest not only features lively music and cultural festivities, but also emphasizes community support and local fundraising.

Over 20 local non-profit organizations participate by selling food and beverages and contribute to their annual fundraising goal through the generosity of festival attendees.

From its humble beginnings as a one-day event in 1961, Wurstfest has transformed into a major attraction that draws over 200,000 visitors each year, demonstrating the enduring appeal of German culture and community spirit in Texas.

Wurstfest runs from today until November 10th.

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