When you visit an Oktoberfest, it is not just about the beer and the music, it is about the traditions, the community, and the surprising details. For us, today the most fascinating detail was the traditional Bavarian or alpine felt hat.

We are not usually “hat people,” but after attending McKinney Oktoberfest today, we think next year it will be all about the hat! Honestly, we just did not pay a lot of attention to it before. But we were listening to one of the bands and they were explaining their hats—that the combination of pins and embellishments is a personal “cocktail” of sorts, showcasing the individuality, the history, and the interests of the wearer. We realized it was a fun, unique way to participate in the festival spirit, right down to the accessories.

Trading Neighborhood Fun for Texas-Sized Festivals

While my husband, Andy, was in Chicago, he enjoyed plenty of genuine neighborhood celebrations—the South Side certainly knows how to gather. But when it came to major, city-wide festivals built around a specific cultural tradition, like a large-scale Oktoberfest, it was a very different experience. He lived there before the local Oktoberfest scene really took off.

Here in the Dallas area, and specifically in a vibrant town like McKinney, it feels like we treat every season as a reason to shut down the historic square, string up the lights, and invite everyone to the party. The culture here is one of constant, larger-than-life community festivals. Seeing the sheer joy and turnout for the McKinney Oktoberfest really drives this home. For Andy, this is not just a festival; it is the joy of finally getting to immerse himself in this bustling tradition right in his own backyard.

McKinney’s Eclectic Backdrop and the Canine Chaos

Our city of McKinney provides a perfect setting for a celebration like this. Located just outside Dallas, the downtown area is full of charm, featuring beautiful 19th-century architecture, eclectic boutique shopping, and, of course, festivals! McKinney’s Oktoberfest is a truly family-friendly festival celebrating German culture with authentic food, lively polka music, dancing, arts & crafts, and—yes—plenty of beer.

A beloved tradition that deserves its own highlight is the Weenie Dog Race! It is pure, chaotic family fun. This city also offers the “Wannabe Weenie Dog Race” for dogs of other breeds, ensuring every pup gets a chance to participate. With every participant a winner in the eyes of the crowd, these races are a definitive highlight of the day.

A Texas-Sized Oktoberfest Tasting

No Oktoberfest post would be complete without a deep dive into the Märzen! We sampled three excellent local brews, all American-style Märzen ales:

• Tupps Brewery – McKinney Oktoberfest Märzen Ale: Brewed right here in McKinney, Tupps’ offering is a literal nod to our hometown. This classic lager was light, crispy, and dry, with subtle hints of caramel and a distinctive toasted malt flavor. It is an incredibly drinkable festival beer.
• Karbach Brewing Co. – Oktoberfest: Brewed in Houston, Karbach’s take is unique because it is cold-fermented. We found it started with a pleasantly tangy note but finished clean, with a subtle hop crispness. A really good, well-balanced brew!
• Shiner – Oktoberfest: You cannot talk about Texas beer without talking Shiner! Their Oktoberfest did not disappoint. It boasts a rich flavor with a dry, moderately hoppy finish. It is the bold, classic taste you expect from one of the state’s most iconic breweries.

So, what was our favorite? While all three were excellent, we had to go with the hometown charm of Tupps Brewery. How could we not cheer on the beer named after our own festival? It tasted like community spirit in a stein!

What was your favorite part of your Oktoberfest celebration? Let us know in the comments—and tell us if you found any cool pins for your hat! Prost, y’all!