Tips for Planning Your New Braunfels Vacation
Sprechen sie fun? To live the Design Dude’s Life, you need to remember to kick back and have a good time. And, that is what Wurstfest is all about! I am giving you the dude’s guide to Wurstfest with all the tips for planning your New Braunfels vacation. Trust me—you probably haven’t experienced this side of Texas before!
What is Wurstfest?
Wurstfest is known as the best ten days in sausage history. It turns out that Texas has way more than just barbecue and tacos to offer! The Texas Hill Country region, nestled between San Antonio and Austin, is home to a bustling Bavarian culture, which Wurstfest has celebrated for 60 years. This non-profit organization works to preserve the community’s rich German heritage, and the annual festival showcases the culture through food, music, dancing, and plenty of beer.
When is Wurstfest?
Wurstfest starts the first Friday in November and runs for ten full days. For 2021, all the festivities are going down between November 5th and 14th. Before you go, know that weekend nights are primetime and can get crowded. Try going on a weeknight or during the day if you want a more relaxed experience.
What to Expect at Wurstfest
You can expect to have a whole lot of fun at Wurstfest! This event was founded on sausage making, which is still the backbone of the celebration. You can sample several varieties of sausage as well as other Bavarian treats like sauerkraut, strudel, and Reuben sandwiches. On the fairgrounds, you can dance to over 40 bands on four stages, play carnival games, and take a ride on the Ferris wheel. The beautiful location on Comal River also allows you to take a break from the bustle and relax on the banks with a brew. Of course, the beer flows freely at Wurstfest! If you are planning on drinking, it is a good idea to make your Wurstfest visit an overnight trip—which is easy because there are over 2,000 rooms in New Braunfels for guests looking to get the most of their Wurstfest experience.
Make Your Mark on Wurstfest This Year
Just four days following the close of the 2019 festival, a massive fire destroyed the Wurstfest Marktplatz and heavily damaged the 100-year-old Wursthalle. This City-owned property has been home to Wurstfest for over fifty years. This year, a newly constructed Wursthalle is set to open, and you can leave your mark on it! Personalized 4×8 or 8×8 bricks are available for sale. Purchase one for the 60th anniversary and become a part of Wurstfest for the next 60 years and beyond!
Where to Stay in New Braunfels
Don’t limit your Wurstfest experience to just one day! The Texas Hill Country has beautiful scenery, fun shops, and delicious restaurants to explore. I recommend staying at the Gruene Mansion Inn. This bed and breakfast is located in the Heart of Gruene, just ten minutes away from the Wurstfest fairgrounds. Since 1872, this inn has provided a quaint retreat footsteps away from Gruene’s best restaurants and shops.
Where to Eat in New Braunfels
At Wurstfest
Of course, Wurstfest is a fantastic place to get a taste of the best German food in Texas! You can explore dozens of vendors offering specialty sausages, snacks, and strudels. If you choose to extend your New Braunfels vacation, make sure to check out some of these fun spots.
Breakfast
Buttermilk Cafe is the perfect place to start your day and grab some breakfast before Wurstfest. They have all your country classics and a few fun surprises.
Coffee Break
If you need to recharge, Gruene Coffee Haus offers a selection of cold brews and espresso beverages as well as tasty snacks.
Dinner
Gruene River Grill and Gristmill River Restaurant both offer classic Hill Country fare along the banks of the Guadalupe River. Bonus—they are both walking distance from the Gruene Mansion Inn.
Wine Wind Down
If beer is not your thing, don’t worry. The Grapevine is the perfect spot to wind down after the thrills of Wurstfest. This spot offers a selection of Hill Country wines, peaceful outdoor seating, and local music performances.
Plan Early for Wurstfest
Wurstfest is one of the Texas Hill Country’s most popular experiences. People come from all over the Lone Star State and the country, so it is best to plan ahead. Make sure to book your accommodations, plan your itinerary, and buy your festival tickets ahead of time. Prost, y’all!
I hope this guide helps you dudes have the best vacation ever! If you have additional questions about Wurstfest and New Braunfels fun, email me at heydesigndudes@gmail.com.
This is a sponsored blog post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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