Austin’s 2026 Oktoberfest: Beer, Brats, and Live Music

Austin’s Oktoberfest calendar comes into focus today, Saturday, October 10, with the German-Texan Heritage Society’s annual celebration at the historic German Free School. The event runs from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM at 507 East 10th Street, in the Red River Cultural District. It is the city’s longest-running Oktoberfest, and this year’s gathering also supports restoration of the school’s historic staircase.

The setting is part of the experience. Built in 1857 with rammed-earth construction, the German Free School is the third-oldest building in Austin and is tied to the history of public education in Texas. During the festival, its gardens provide space for photos and family activities, while traditional clothing such as Lederhosen and Dirndl is encouraged. Children 12 and under enter free; tickets for everyone else are $20, with sales handled through Eventbrite and all sales final.

The music schedule gives the day a clear rhythm. Bushy Creek Band plays from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by the Walburg Boys from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Yodel Blitz closes the program from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. The Austin folk group brings yodeling, three-part harmonies, accordion, clarinet, bass, brass, alphorn, and cowbells to a set that moves between traditional polkas and more familiar Oktoberfest songs.

There is plenty to eat and drink as well. The beer list includes Paulaner, Hacker-Pschorr, and Hofbräu München, with wine from William Chris Vineyards and Rhineland Pfalz. IM Catering, led by Ines Mosley, serves the German festival food, including the expected brat-and-beer pairing. The event is open to the public, so it works for a full afternoon downtown or a shorter stop for music, food, and a look around the old school. For the complete schedule and ticket details, check the German-Texan Heritage Society’s Oktoberfest page or Eventbrite.