If you’ve ever wondered what happens when Texas charm meets German roots, the answer is simple: Wurstfest in New Braunfels. Every November, this ten-day celebration transforms our riverside town into a Bavarian-style village filled with music, entertainment, and, of course, plenty of German food. It’s one of the most famous New Braunfels attractions, drawing more than 240,000 visitors each year to dance, eat, and “give ’em your wurst.” Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, experiencing this festival is a must when you Visit New Braunfels.
A History Lesson
In 1961, New Braunfels was home to 19 commercial sausage-making businesses. Dr. E.A. Grist, the city's meat inspector, organized a one-day event to honor sausage. Over the years, with a prolonged celebration, it’s become one of the best New Braunfels attractions. And once you’ve been, you’ll see why locals count down to it all year long.
When, Where, and How to Enjoy Wurstfest in New Braunfels
This year’s Wurstfest in New Braunfels runs from November 7 through 16, 2025, at 120 Landa Street, right beside the Comal River. The setting alone feels like something out of a storybook, with colorful tents, beer gardens, and open-air stages throughout the area.
Admission prices vary by day:
● Monday–Thursday: Free
● Friday & Sunday: $20 at the gate
● Saturday: $30 at the gate
● Children under 12: Always free
Wurstfest typically runs into the night, closing as early as 10 p.m. or as late as midnight, so you’ll have plenty of time to do your "wurst."
What to Eat (Spoiler: Everything)
You can’t talk about Wurstfest in New Braunfels without talking about the food. This is a showcase of German flavors with bratwurst, flammkuchen, currywurst, and more, served sizzling hot from dozens of vendor booths. But that’s just the beginning. You’ll find schnitzel, giant pretzels, potato pancakes, and other German desserts. Pair it all with an ice-cold German beer or a local craft brew, and you’ll understand why it’s one of the tastiest New Braunfels attractions around.
Pro tip: Come hungry and bring a credit/debit card or Apple Pay/Google Pay.'
All The German Traditions
The food might lure you in, but the entertainment is what keeps you there. Wurstfest’s lineup includes more than 40 bands performing across five stages. Expect to find favorites like Alex Meixner, Jimmy Sturr and His Orchestra, Mollie B & Squeezebox, and plenty of talented New Braunfels locals. Each night kicks off with the traditional “biting of the sausage” and keg tapping ceremony to mark the official start of the evening’s festivities.
Between the polka, waltzes, and even some rock-infused sets, there’s always a reason to hit the dance floor. Carnival rides, games, and local craft booths add to the fun. And if you’ve never joined a stein-holding contest, this is your chance!
Family-Friendly Fun!
While Wurstfest in New Braunfels is famous for its beer and bratwurst, there’s plenty of fun for kids and teens under 21. The festival is completely family-friendly! Kids love the carnival rides, games, and the colorful grounds, while parents can appreciate that it’s safe, well-organized, and easy to navigate. And since children under 12 get in free, it’s one of the best New Braunfels attractions for families.
Stay Near the Festival
If you’re planning to make a weekend of it, there are lots of places to stay in New Braunfels close to the festival grounds. From charming bed-and-breakfasts to cozy boutique hotels and riverside rentals, you’ll find options for every style and budget. Be sure to book your hotel early. Wurstfest is one of the busiest times of the year, and rooms fill up fast! Some visitors even make it a tradition to stay and celebrate the full 10 days.
Visit NB’s Insider Tips
Want to experience Wurstfest like a true New Braunfels local? Start by buying your tickets in advance online to skip the lines and save a little cash. If you’re coming on a weekend, make sure to arrive early to beat the biggest crowds and get the best food and spots for performances. Comfortable shoes are a must, since you’ll be walking, standing, and dancing more than you might expect.
And if you really want to blend in, dust off your lederhosen or dirndl. Festival-goers love dressing the part, and you’ll feel like a seasoned Wurstfest attendee in no time.
You’ll Love Wurstfest in New Braunfels!
Between the sizzling bratwursts, ice-cold beers, and fun German music, there’s never a dull moment at Wurstfest. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, this is one of those New Braunfels attractions that makes you dance, laugh, and maybe even belt out a polka or two.
So grab a stein, grab a sausage, and dive into the fun because at Wurstfest, every day is the “wurst day ever” in the best possible way!