Wurstfest Will Return to New Braunfels in November
The 65th anniversary festival will feature 40 bands performing over 250 sets across 10 days.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Food and Drink
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Wurstfest organizers announced the entertainment lineup for the 65th anniversary of the New Braunfels festival. The celebration will run from November 6-15, 2026, offering guests a full schedule of live music and cultural events.
Why it matters
The festival is a significant cultural tradition in the Texas Hill Country that draws large crowds for its mix of German-style music and culinary experiences. Its expansion into new offerings like the Weingarten ensures it remains a central attraction for regional tourism.
The 65th anniversary celebration will span 10 days and include performances across five stages. Attendees can expect over 250 music sets from more than 40 participating bands.
The players
Jimmy Sturr and His Orchestra
This musical group is a multi-time Grammy Award winner known for popularizing polka music across the United States.
Alex Meixner
He is a prominent musician and accordionist who has become a staple of modern polka and fusion music performances.
The details
Visitors to the festival in New Braunfels can participate in sausage-making demonstrations, contests, and a stein-holding state championship. The event also expanded its wine selection at the Weingarten, located in the Hydroplant section of the grounds.
Timeline
Opening ceremonies and a performance by Alex Meixner occur on November 6, 2026.
The Wurstfest celebration runs from November 6-15, 2026.
Industry Dynamics
Wurstfest maintains its status as a premier event by balancing long-standing traditions with expanded culinary options like the Weingarten. This strategy helps the festival remain competitive within the wider landscape of regional heritage celebrations and seasonal tourism.
Attendees can plan their visits to the Hydroplant section to explore the expanded Weingarten and various dance areas. Visitors should check the festival schedule to catch specific performances from the 40-plus scheduled bands.
The takeaway
Visitors planning to attend the 10-day celebration should prioritize early arrival at the dance areas to secure seating for popular acts. Keep an eye on local announcements as the November 6, 2026, opening date approaches to confirm times for specific contests.
Further reading
Learn more about local culinary events on the New Braunfels page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by MySA.
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Is attending a major local cultural festival worth the cost for your household this year?
