The Best Local Festivals in Fredericksburg, Texas

Located in the heart of the Hill Country, Fredericksburg, Texas, is more than just a picturesque town with historic charm. This thriving cultural hub knows how to celebrate life, heritage, and hospitality. With so many exciting things to do in Fredericksburg, TX, it’s no wonder there’s a list of events to enjoy.

Throughout the year, Fredericksburg and its surrounding areas play host to a variety of festivals. From traditional German bands to fun culinary events, these events offer unforgettable experiences for visitors and locals alike. 

Here's a curated guide to the best local festivals and events.

1. Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival (Summer Preview & Fall Edition)

When: July (Summer Preview Week), October (Main Event)

Where: Marktplatz, Fredericksburg

No visit to this town would be complete without indulging in its celebrated wine and food culture. The Fredericksburg Food & Wine Festival is a flagship event held twice annually, drawing culinary enthusiasts from across the state. The Summer Preview Week in July offers an exciting build-up to the main fall festival, featuring themed tastings, chef-led dinners, a queso throwdown, and even a silent disco set in a wine cave.

The October festival transforms downtown into a gourmet playground, complete with Texas wineries, artisan booths, and curated pairing experiences. The festivities include Hill Country culture, Fredericksburg history, and small-town fun.

2. Oktoberfest Fredericksburg

When: October
Where: Marktplatz, Fredericksburg

Embracing its deep German roots, Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg is an all-out celebration. With three days of events, the festival is all about heritage, community, and, of course, beer. The streets fill with the sound of live oompah music, traditional folk dancing, and the clinking of steins. The event features five stages of live entertainment, craft beer tents, a family-friendly Kinderpark, and the ever-popular Kraut Run.

Whether you're dancing the chicken dance or savoring bratwurst and strudel, this vibrant festival brings authentic Bavarian spirit to Central Texas. Don’t forget to collect your commemorative hat pins and try your hand at the stein-hoisting contest.

3. Fredericksburg Crawfish Festival

When: Memorial Day Weekend

Where: Marktplatz, Fredericksburg

For a taste of the South with a Hill Country twist, the Fredericksburg Crawfish Festival delivers a mouthwatering Cajun experience each Memorial Day weekend. Featuring thousands of pounds of spicy crawfish, cold beer, zydeco and country music, and activities for all ages, this festival is a family favorite.

Held at Marktplatz, the festival is affordable and laid-back, with single-day passes around $12–15. If you enjoy dancing under the stars with a plate of hot crawfish in hand, this event is not to be missed.

4. Texas Testicle Festival

When: Monthly through August (4th Saturdays)
Where: Bankersmith, TX (just outside Fredericksburg)

Quirky, bold, and undeniably Texan, the Texas Testicle Festival is an unforgettable culinary celebration of, yes, Rocky Mountain oysters. Hosted monthly in the rustic ghost town of Bankersmith, this offbeat event features fried delicacies, beer gardens, and live country music.

This festival isn’t just about food, it’s also about having fun and embracing the unexpected. Whether you're an adventurous eater or just there for the music and atmosphere, the Testicle Festival is a one-of-a-kind Hill Country experience.

5. Fredericksburg Car Fest

When: June 7, 2025

Where: Marktplatz, Fredericksburg

Classic car lovers unite at the annual Fredericksburg Car Fest, a showcase of vintage and custom vehicles lining the historic streets around Marktplatz. This laid-back, family-oriented event includes food vendors, live music, and activities for kids, making it a hit with attendees of all ages.

If you missed it this year, be sure to catch it next summer. It's an annual highlight for automotive enthusiasts and casual admirers alike.



6. Texas Mesquite Arts Festival

When: October 

Where: Marktplatz, Fredericksburg

Mesquite wood is as iconic in Texas as longhorns and bluebonnets. At the Texas Mesquite Arts Festival, this local resource is transformed into stunning works of art by skilled artisans. Held in October, this festival features everything from mesquite furniture and sculptures to kitchenware and fine jewelry.

Visitors can browse booths while enjoying live music and food in the scenic Marktplatz setting. It’s an ideal stop for early holiday shopping or for picking up a unique handcrafted souvenir.

Year-Round and Seasonal Events

Fredericksburg is also home to many additional events that keep things interesting all year round. Some of these include:

• First Friday Art Walks: Held monthly, they include gallery openings, artist receptions, and live demos downtown.
• Fredericksburg Farmers Market: Thursdays, April –August from 4–7 PM. It features vendors, live music, and food trucks.
• Pioneer Museum Free Programs: Select Fridays, Jan–Dec from 3–5 PM. The programs include speakers, book reviews, and history demos.

Planning Your Festival Adventure

Whether you’re into gourmet experiences, traditional folk culture, quirky fun, or local craftsmanship, Fredericksburg’s festival calendar has something for everyone. 

With each event, you’ll get a taste of what makes the town such a special destination: a strong sense of place, a love for good food and drink, and a welcoming spirit rooted in community pride. So mark your calendar and join the celebration Hill Country-style.

Stay at the Hoffman Haus

Your Fredericksburg, TX adventure begins at Hoffman Haus! Stay with us and enjoy our convenient location, private setting, and beautiful grounds. Choose from one of our rooms, suites, or even entire homes for a boutique bed and breakfast experience. 

Guests can also enjoy our on-site spa with relaxing massages and rejuvenating treatments. We even provide chef-prepared breakfasts with your stay to make sure you’re getting the most out of your Fredericksburg getaway.

Make your reservation with us today!