Group of people in German attire dancing.

Bites and brews with the crew are what it’s all about here in San Antonio during Oktoberfest. Originating in Munich, the autumnal festival celebrates German culture and beer.

The now-turned-worldwide phenomenon officially kicked off on Saturday, September 16. With the celebration in full swing, here are a few reasons why you should put on your lederhosen and grab a pint in the Alamo City.

 

Tap into San Antonio's Germanic Roots

Historical building surrounded with trees

San Antonio’s rich history is one of remarkable cultural diversity. Its ties to German heritage are no exception. In the 1840’s, a group of German noblemen formed the Adelsverein to protect German immigrants coming to Texas. Those ties were strengthened even further in 2017 when the City of San Antonio announced Darmstadt, Germany as its 11th official sister city.

In fact, Texas’ first zoned historic district, the King William neighborhood, was settled by other prominent German merchants in the late 1800’s. Take in the impressive architecture of century-old mansions and visit Kuenstler Brewing, Blur Star Brewing Company, Stella Public House, or other surrounding places to dine with craft beers on tap.

 

Oktoberfest Foods Worth (C)Raving About

German sandwich and fries

Little Rhein Prost Haus

With a title like UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, San Antonio has a lot to live up to. Luckily, the culinary scene is second to none with plenty of Bavarian bites and brews to enjoy. Start your Germanic culinary crawl at the Riverwalk with these three spots: Schilo’sLittle Rhein Prost Haus, and Bier Garten Riverwalk.

If you’re trying to get away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, there’s options for you as well. Enjoy a unique twist on a beer garden at Wurst Behavior with Asian-inspired eats as well as classic German staples. Beethoven Männerchor is also a must-visit for German live music and stein hoisting, a traditional Bavarian strength contest.

 

Don't Miss Out on These Events!

The fun doesn’t have to stop there. Mark your calendar for Alamo Beer’s annual festivities, including its Ska-toberfest Music Festival. Or join a party hosted by Weathered Souls Brewing, complete with beer stein-hoisting competitions, a corn hole tournament, and more.

On weekends now through October 29, check out the Oktoberfest Food Festival at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. Opportunities to try some of Germany’s most iconic culinary creations will be available throughout the Spassburg area of the park along with seasonal brews.

Lastly, head to the Hill Country for the sixth annual Boerne BierFest, just minutes from the theme park. See all upcoming events for nonstop Oktoberfest fun. Prost!