The spirit of Munich found a home in Texas with Oktoberfest celebrations all across the state. Texas takes Oktoberfest seriously, which is no surprise considering that a lot of Texans have German roots, thanks to a migration wave in the 19th century.
Addison Circle Park was transformed into a Bavarian wonderland Sept. 19-22. From the moment you stepped into the park, you could feel the festival’s energy — lively and full of tradition.
The park had a way of pulling you in. Walking through, you were greeted by the scent of bratwurst and pretzels the size of dinner plates. Food stalls lined the paths, but it was the beer that took center stage.
The traditional beer stein hoisting competition was a crowd favorite. The participants pushed their endurance and biceps to the limit. There’s something oddly fascinating about watching grown adults tremble under the weight of a giant beer mug, faces locked in intense concentration, all while the crowd cheers them on like it’s the Super Bowl of stein-holding.
But Oktoberfest in Addison wasn’t just for beer lovers or the stein-hoisting elite. Sure, the beer tents were packed with folks clinking glasses, but families were just as much a part of the scene. Kids ran between carnival rides and games, devoured oversized pretzels and tried their hand at arts and crafts.
As the days wore on, the festival’s pulse didn’t miss a beat. The polka band on stage had everyone moving, and even if you had no idea what you were doing, you weren’t alone. The festival had a way of making everyone feel like part of the action, whether you’re a chicken dance pro or just flapping your arms awkwardly and hoping for the best.
The park itself provided the perfect setting, with plenty of space for the crowds to spread out. It felt like one big backyard party. Only instead of burgers and lemonade, there were schnitzels and ice-cold lagers.
And while the crowds grew, it never felt too overwhelming, thanks to the thoughtful layout from organizers. Clean facilities and easy parking kept everything hassle-free, so the only thing you had to worry about was which food stall to hit next.
By the time the festival wound down, Addison Circle Park had managed to create something magical, a celebration that felt both like an escape to Germany and a warm community gathering. Oktoberfest here isn’t just about the beer. It’s about the shared joy and the traditions that somehow feel both foreign and familiar.
As the final notes of polka music played and the last beer steins clinked, you couldn’t help but feel like you’d just experienced something special.
If you missed it, don’t make the same mistake next year. Addison isn’t the only city that celebrates Oktoberfest; Dallas, McKinney, Fort Worth, Houston and Austin all participate. Whether you decide to go for the food or the fun, Oktoberfest is an unforgettable slice of Germany.
