Downtown McKinney will once again host its beloved Oktoberfest celebration from September 25 to 27. The three‑day festival, held at 111 N. Tennessee Street, offers free admission and a wide range of activities for families, food lovers and beer enthusiasts alike.

Free Festivities for the Whole Family

Visitors can enjoy traditional German music, folk dancing, and authentic costumes while sampling a variety of bratwurst, pretzels and other regional fare. Children’s activities run throughout the weekend, and a special Meet‑the‑Brewmaster session on the Bavarian Experience Stage provides a closer look at the craft beers being served.

Unique Competitions and Traditions

One of the highlights is the Hofbräu Maßkrugstemmen Stein‑Holding Competition, where participants grip a one‑liter beer stein at arm’s length for as long as possible. A beard and mustache contest also crowns the festival’s official facial‑hair champion.

Dog lovers can cheer on more than 70 dachshunds and other breeds in the 17th Annual Weenie Dog Races, a light‑hearted race that adds extra fun to the weekend.

Adult‑Only VIP Biergarten

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the Blue Box VIP Biergarten offers a 21‑and‑over space with craft beer, food, live music and private restrooms. Multi‑day VIP passes include a commemorative stein, official Oktoberfest pin, exclusive T‑shirt, two beer vouchers and two food vouchers. Children in strollers are welcome in the VIP area.

How to Participate

While general admission is free, some activities and specialty areas require tickets or registration. The TUPPS Brat Eating Competition is limited to the first ten registrants, who will have eight minutes to consume as many “naked” brats as possible for a prize package from TUPPS Brewery.

For the full schedule, registration details and VIP options, visit the official McKinney Oktoberfest website.

Original reporting: Local Profile (DFW) — read the source article.