Ultimate Guide to Attending Wurstfest in New Braunfels with Kids
Wurstfest in New Braunfels is a unique, kid-friendly event that brings German culture, live music, tasty food, and fun rides to life every November! If you’re planning to attend with kids, make sure you read this post before you go so you can get all my essential tips. From the best arrival times to family-friendly activities, here are the Top Ten tips you need for a great day at Wurstfest in New Braunfels with kids.
Location
Hours:
FIRST FRIDAY
4:00pm – 11:00pm
SATURDAYS
11:00am – Midnight
SUNDAYS
11:00am – 10:00pm
MONDAY – THURSDAY
5:00pm – 10:00pm
SECOND FRIDAY
5:00pm – 11:00pm
Admission:
If you pay for admission at the gate, you will need CASH! There are ATM’s out front.
Saturday Ticket – $25 (Can be used on any day)
Friday/Sunday Ticket – $20 (Good for only Friday or Sunday)
FREE WURSTFEST ADMISSION DAYS (No ticket needed these days):
Monday, November 4: 5-10pm
Tuesday, November 5: 5-10pm
Wednesday, November 6: 5-10pm
Thursday, November 7: 5-10pm
Sunday, November 10: After 3pm – FREE ADMISSION
Children 12 and under are always FREE!
Tip #1: Plan Ahead and Arrive Early
Beat the Crowds: Wurstfest gets busier as the day goes on, so arrive early to avoid long lines and grab a good parking spot.
Best Days for Families: Weekends, especially late in the day on Saturdays, can be crowded. For a more relaxed experience, try visiting on a weekday or early in the day. Bonus: weekdays (Monday-Thursday) are free! There’s more of a party vibe in the evenings and more of a family vibe during the day, especially on the weekends.
Also good to know (for next time): try to make it on opening day if you can! You will be able to experience the Opening Ceremonies which is super fun to watch! They “open the festival” by tapping a beer keg and the “biting of the sausage” which is so fun!
Tip #2: Know Where to Park and How to Get There
Parking Tips: Parking at Wurstfest can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. Look for nearby lots that offer shuttles to the festival grounds or consider parking in downtown New Braunfels and taking a short walk to the event. Lots like the Knights of Columbus usually cost around $10. Here is where you can find all the PARKING INFO.
Shuttle Options: Check Wurstfest’s website for shuttle options. Park & Ride is a great way to avoid the hassle of parking, especially with kids in tow. Kids 12 and under ride for free. Everyone else is $10/person. Credit cards only.
Tip #3: Family-Friendly Activities to Check Out
Kinderhalle (Kids’ Tent): The Kinderhalle often has games, crafts, and live entertainment designed for kids. It’s a must-visit for families! Don’t miss the Bubble Show, Puppet Theater, Chicken Dance Lessons, Sausage Making Demonstrations, Magic Shows, and more!
Carnival Rides & Games: Rides and games are scattered throughout the festival grounds. Be sure to get tickets in advance to avoid lines. The wristband is definitely worth every penny and if you have kids who are tall enough and love rides, this is the way to go! There were about 8 rides (including a fun house).
Photo Opportunities: With traditional German costumes, festive decor, and iconic beer steins, there are plenty of family photo ops. Snap photos with the giant pretzel, beer mugs, and other fun props around the festival. Don’t forget to stop by the waterfall that’s just inside the gates and get a few snapshots there as well!
Tip #4: Kid-Friendly Food Options
German Classics with a Twist: Sausages, pretzels, and potato pancakes are just a few of the German treats kids can enjoy. If you have picky eaters- no need to worry! There are also plenty of regular (non-German) food options here, like pizza, fries, and more.
Save Room for Sweets: Funnel cakes, strudels, and other desserts are available and are often a kid favorite. Bring a sweet tooth! Naegelin’s (the oldest bakery in Texas) has a booth there that is definitely a must-try!
Tip #5: Prepare for the Weather
Dress Comfortably: Texas weather can be unpredictable in November, so check the forecast and dress in layers. It’s best to have lightweight clothing for warm days, plus jackets or sweaters for cooler evenings. Of course, lederhosen is encouraged! This is a rain or shine event, so bring umbrellas or rain coats if needed.
Bring Sun Protection: If it’s sunny, hats and sunscreen are essential. The festival grounds have limited shade, so come prepared.
Tip #6: Entertainment and Live Music for All Ages
Live Polka Music & Dance: Wurstfest is known for its live polka music, which is fun and lively for all ages! Find a spot near the dance floor so kids can join in or watch dancers in traditional attire. You absolutely must see the Alex Meixner Band perform! They are the best!
Cultural Shows & Performances: Be sure to check the schedule for family-friendly shows, including dance troupes, yodeling, and traditional German storytelling. It’s a great way for kids to learn about German culture.
Tip #7: Safety
ID Bracelets or Tags: For extra peace of mind, consider ID bracelets or tags for younger kids with your contact information. If you don’t have time to make one, at the very least write your phone number on your kid’s hand with a Sharpie. It gets very crowded at Wurstfest on weekends!
Establish a Meeting Spot: Festivals can be busy, so it’s helpful to designate a clear meeting spot in case anyone gets separated. Grab a table early on and point out some landmarks to help your kids remember where it is so they could find it easily if need be. Tables are in high demand, so snag one early right away. A Lost People Post is available at the Information Booth as well.
Tip #8: What To Bring
Bags: You don’t need a clear bag, but all bags will be searched upon entry.
What’s Not Allowed: No outside food or drinks are allowed in. You may also not bring your own chairs. No balls or frisbees, drones, or pets.
Don’t Miss the Souvenir Shop: From traditional German hats to festive mugs, Wurstfest has many unique souvenirs. Consider letting each child pick a small item to remember the trip. The hats are especially popular!
Tip #9: Visit Landa Park or McKenna Children’s Museum
Landa Park: After a full day, consider winding down at nearby Landa Park. It’s a beautiful spot with walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds, perfect for letting kids run off some last energy before heading home.
McKenna Children’s Museum: We love this museum that’s just for kids in New Braunfels! If you have the energy to tack on another activity while you’re in the area, consider checking out the McKenna Children’s Museum.
Tip #10: Save Money
Tickets: Kids 12 and under are always free! Mondays-Thursdays are free days! If you purchase tickets at the gate, they accept CASH ONLY. There are ATM machines onsite. Drink tickets may be purchased with cash or a Credit/Debit Card.
Save money and buy the pitcher! This will also save you time standing in line for drink tickets and another beer!
Buy the rides wristband if you will ride 8 or more times. There are around 8 rides there, so if you ride each ride once it pays for itself. And your kids will want to go again and again!
Why we love it
Wurstfest is an incredible experience for families, blending culture, food, music, and activities that kids and adults alike will love. The coolest thing about Wurstfest is how the community comes together each year to put on this event, and all the money stays in the community to continue to make New Braunfels such a fun and interesting place to visit. We just love that! By planning ahead, focusing on family-friendly spots, and taking advantage of the Kinderhalle and kid-friendly rides, your Wurstfest visit can be a memorable outing for everyone. Prost to family fun at Wurstfest!
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