City of McKinney, TX

09/19/2022 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/19/2022 12:55

McKinney Oktoberfest goes cashless for the first time

Attendees can pay electronically via mobile devices, or credit or debit cards

McKINNEY, Texas (Sept. 19, 2022) - For the first time, McKinney Oktoberfest is using cashless transactions throughout the three-day festival. This means faster service and shorter lines for Oktoberfest vendors. Event patrons can purchase Oktoberfest food, beer, and activities directly from vendors using a credit/debit card or their mobile wallet, such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay. Admission to the event is free.

"We're excited to eliminate tickets for this event, so no more waiting in one line for another. This will make the experience so much easier for our guests," said Interim Main Street Director Andrew Jones. "We're encouraging attendees to leave their cash at home and bring a credit card for speedy transactions throughout the entire festival."

McKinney Oktoberfest offers authentic German music, food and drink, traditional costumes, dancing, rides, children's activities, and more during the three-day family-friendly festival.

WHEN: Friday, Sept. 23, Happy Hour at 2-4:30 p.m., 5-11 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 24, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sunday, Sept. 25, noon to 5 p.m.

WHERE: Historic Downtown McKinney

ADMISSION: Free

PARKING: Free parking and complimentary shuttle service available

INFORMATION: McKinneyOktoberfest.com

Activities

  • Authentic German Food
    McKinney Oktoberfest features brats, sausages, schnitzel, strudel, funnel cakes, roasted almonds, and more.
  • Biers and Wines of Oktoberfest
    Guests can enjoy authentic German flavors from Hofbrau and TUPPS Brewery. Wine from Landon Winery and Lone Star Cellars will be available.
  • Live Entertainment
    Enjoy polka bands and live entertainers from three stages located throughout Downtown McKinney.
  • Keg Tapping and Parade
    The annual keg tapping tradition continues Friday at 6 p.m. at the Prost Stage.
  • Marktplatz
    Experience Bavarian craftsmanship as well as traditional wares at the Arts and Crafts Marktplatz.
  • Meet the Brewmaster Sessions
    Learn more about the craft beer served at McKinney Oktoberfest located at TUPPS Brewery. Must be 21 to attend. Saturday, Sept. 24 at 4 p.m. Register here.

Contests

  • Weenie Dog Races
    Over 70 weenie dogs and wannabes (all other breeds) meet at McKinney Oktoberfest to see who the top dog is.

    Saturday, Sept. 24 at 11:30 a.m. (Check-in 10-11 a.m.)
    12-2 p.m. - Weenie Dog Races
    2-5 p.m. - Wannabe Dog Races
    Registration for the Weenie Races is free

  • Beard & Mustache Competition
    The 3rd annual competition will crown one lucky person the official beard/stache of McKinney.
    Registration for the Beard & Mustache Competition is free

  • Hofbrau "Musskrugstemmen" Stein Holding Competition
    Strength competition with participants holding a glass stein filled with beer.

    Saturday, Sept. 24, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
    $25 fee to enter. Includes official Hofbrau stein and beer.

  • TUPPS Brat Eating Competition
    Brat eating competition to see who can eat the most brats in eight minutes. Sunday, Sept. 25, from 3-4 p.m.
    Registration is free, but the competition is limited to 10.

Media

Event renderings and event photos for media can be downloaded at McKinney Oktoberfest Media

For social media:

  • Facebook and Instagram: @DowntownMcKinney
  • Twitter: @DTownMcKinney
  • Event hashtag: #McKinneyOktoberfest