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New Braunfels, Texas, represents a vibrant tapestry where the spirit of small-town America and the aesthetic charms of old-world Europe are woven into the diverse cultural fabric of the area. New Braunfels can take you back centuries with its unique architectural touches, and in the next moment serve as a gateway to the vast natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country. The result is a beautiful and distinct hometown culture that is the perfect setting for various celebrations, events, and festivals year-round. Perhaps none of these is as iconic as Wurstfest, New Braunfels’ annual celebration of all things Bavarian. 

The following is a decade-by-decade look at the history of this incredible festival to show what makes Wurstfest the best.

Wurstfest in the 1960s: Birth of a Sausage Celebration

In 1961, Ed Grist, the city meat inspector, dreamt up a one-day festival to celebrate New Braunfels, its unique heritage, and delicious sausages. He got the city on board with his destiny-tinged vision, leading to the first-ever Sausage Festival. That’s right—it wasn’t even officially Wurstfest in its first year! 

At the time, Grist and his collaborators imagined the event as a typical, small-town festival. They may have nurtured a pipe dream of someday expanding it from a single-day affair to a whole weekend if it should catch on. However, in 1963, two years after the festival’s official inauguration, events were scheduled for every night of what had already become “Wurst Week.” 

In the latter days of the 1960s, Wurstfest had become its final name and had its first big relocation, getting a dedicated home at the “Wursthalle” in beloved Landa Park. Before the end of the festival’s first decade in existence, Wurstfest had already expanded to 10 full days and proven capable of drawing thousands of visitors to New Braunfels each year, with attractions and entertainments now including top touring musicians and nearly 50 different food vendors, with inspired options ranging from Wurst tacos to Sauerkraut pizza. 

By the time the 1960s ended, Wurstfest was already a key fixture of the New Braunfels economy. The 1969 festival saw a record 75,000 attendees. 

Wurstfest in the 1970s: A Festival Flourishes

In the 1970s, Wurstfest continued its expansion, adding restrooms, security, event staff facilities, and the iconic Biergarten, ensuring that festival-goers could appreciate authentic Bavarian brews and sausages. In fact, the decade saw over 7.5 additional acres acquired for Wurstfest expansions, effectively tripling the size of the festival grounds by the end of the decade.

Wurstfest in the 1980s: Sausage Hits Its Stride

Wurstfest entered the 1980s looking for unique and memorable ways to expand the festival and its offerings, acquiring fun exhibits like the world’s largest beer bottle collection. The famed collection, purchased from New Braunfels local Jerome Nowonty, contains over 15,000 beer containers. After meticulous curation, only the best 3,000 of them make it into the Wursthalle. 

Another unusual exhibit marked the Wurstfest 25th anniversary celebration in 1985: a temporary post office! While a pop-up postal station might seem like an odd installation for a 10-day festival, guests used it to acquire special cancellation stamps bearing the Wurstfest name. 

Throughout the second half of the 80s, Wurstfest was gaining notoriety as one of the best festivals—not just in Texas but in all of North America—thanks to positive media coverage and word of mouth. This peaked in 1989, with the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of Germany giving the media a special appetite for all things German.

Wurstfest in the 1990s: The Best of Times, The Wurst of Times

Wurstfest continued strong through much of the 1990s, with expansions and more great memories. Then, in 1998, Wurstfest encountered major adversity. 

New Braunfels had another great festival planned for 1998, with Grammy winner Jimmy Sturr slated to headline the entertainment with his world-renowned orchestra. However, disaster struck less than two weeks before the festival’s opening day. The New Braunfels area was hit with torrential rain and massive flooding. Much of the Wurstfest grounds were left underwater, and several Wurstfest expansions, some only two years old, were washed away entirely. 

Wurstfest officials surveyed the vast damage and decided to continue with Wurstfest as planned. The rain continued on as well but could do nothing to dampen the spirits of festival-goers, who helped Wurstfest raise $50,000 for flood victims.

Wurstfest in the New Millenium: Wurstfest 2000 and Beyond

The first significant change to come to Wurstfest in the 21st century occurred in 2002 and involved a generous gift from JPMorgan Chase & Co.: a key half-acre property on Landa Street to be used for improved parking and future expansion.  

In the mid-00s, the sale of a local power plant impacted the Wurstfest landscape, requiring some of the facilities to be moved. Undeterred, Wurstfest continued growing. Expansion through this era included the Kinderhalle, a special children’s entertainment area built in collaboration with the New Braunfels Parks and Recreation Department. 

The 00s finished strong, with Saturday, November 7, 2009, going down as the single biggest day in Wurstfest history. This set the stage for Wurstfest’s 50th anniversary blowout in 2010, which welcomed a very special guest: Graf Johannes von Oppersdorf, a direct descendant of Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels, the city’s founder. 

Wurstfest continued rolling strong through the 2010s, with a new website, more facilities expansions, and the addition of an offseason Craft Beer Festival in May. This last bit was an instant success, with tickets to the Craft Beer Festival selling out the very first year.  

In 2019, however, started a challenging run for the festival. Mere days after another great Wurstfest wrapped up in 2019, the festival grounds saw a devastating fire, which wiped out the marketplace area used by vendors and also damaged the iconic Wursthalle. Rebuilding began immediately in hopes of a strong return in 2020, but unfortunately, a 2020 festival never took place due to COVID-19. This marked the first cancellation in Wurstfest’s 50-plus-year history as an annual celebration. 

While 2019-2020 was a difficult period for Wurstfest, the nearly quarter-million visitors who showed up in 2021 seem to indicate that the festival is as resilient as ever!

Mayfair: Your Home Near All the Best of Wurstfest

If you’re a Wurstfest fanatic, why not put yourself in the middle of the fun by moving to New Braunfels? Mayfair is a modern residential development conveniently located near all the best New Braunfels has to offer, featuring top home designs from a variety of the area’s most reputable builders. 

Nestled within America’s amber fields and independent farms lies a timeless autumn treasure. The pumpkin patch is where magic and nostalgia intertwine, and every pumpkin has its own tale, waiting to be told through you, your imagination, and your best efforts with a carving knife. Aside from being the perfect place to choose the perfect jack o’ lantern for Halloween 2023, a great pumpkin patch might also have games, face painting, a corn maze, hay rides, hot cider, and any number of other treats. Texas tends to do everything a little bigger, and the pumpkins — and their patches — are no exception in terms of both size and fun! 

If you’re looking for pumpkin patches in New Braunfels, look no further than the New Braunfels Pumpkin Patch 2023. It’s conveniently located at the popular Rockin’ R tour operator in Gruene, TX. Carve out your perfect day on the farm with your family.

New Braunfels Pumpkin Patch 2023 Details

Where: The Pumpkin Patch at Rockin’ R takes place at Rockin’ R Gruene, located at 1405 Gruene Road, nestled along the scenic banks of the Guadalupe River. 

The Rockin’ R’s main business is operating river rides and other tours, but they put this family-oriented customer service experience to great use running their Pumpkin Patch event. Consider coming back during the summer months to try out one of their hugely popular Guadalupe River tubing packages, with prices as low as $25 for a basic tube. 

Local newspaper readers voted The Rockin’ R Best of New Braunfels 2023, so you know your New Braunfels Pumpkin Patch 2023 experience is in good hands with them. 

Please note that there are three other Rockin’ R locations along the Guadalupe River alone and others on the Comal River. The Rockin’ R facility you want to visit for fall pumpkin patch fun is the Rockin’ R in Gruene, once again located at 1405 Gruene Road. 

When: The Pumpkin Patch at Rockin’ R is a month-long event, opening September 30 and lasting through November 18. However, it is only open Wednesdays through Sundays, with operating hours of 10 AM to 8 PM. The pumpkin patch operates throughout October and into November, but you may want to plan your visit around the special “Fall Market & Festival” event taking place for one weekend only, on Saturday, October 28, and Sunday, October 29. This is a special event where the pumpkin patch is filled with vendors, face painting, food, and other fun. 

What: Rockin’ R’s month-long pumpkin patch has a full complement of traditional and unique pumpkin patch amenities, including: 

Little Pumpkin’s Play Patch – Young Children’s Pumpkin Patch New Braunfels, TX 

For the younger kids, Rockin’ R maintains a separate installation called “Little Pumpkin’s Play Patch.” While the standard pumpkin patch is free to enter, Little Pumpkin’s costs $10. Children under two are free, however, and there is also no charge for parents who are only supervising and not partaking in the fun. 

So, what exactly does your little pumpkin get for their $10 admission fee? A full day of fall fun, including: 

Fall Festival & Market at Rockin’ R’s New Braunfels Pumpkin Patch 

The Rockin’ R pumpkin patch will also host a special Fall Festival & Market event on the weekend of Saturday, October 28. Bring your entire family down to the Rockin R’ and enjoy: 

If you are interested in becoming a vendor at the Fall Festival & Market, you can send an application through the Rockin’ R website. 

Fall Field Trips to the New Braunfels Pumpkin Patch 

A field trip with the whole class is a great way to experience the Pumpkin Patch at Rockin’ R and make lifelong memories with friends, teachers, and classmates. 

If you’re an educator considering a Texas pumpkin patch for a fall field trip destination, consider the package Rockin’ R has to offer you: 

In addition to simply being a fun time for kids of all ages, a seasonal trip to a functioning pumpkin patch offers all sorts of potential for educational experience in areas like: 

Please note that food is not included in the field trip package, but you can access picnic facilities for eating packed lunches.

Mayfair, TX – Your Year-Round Home in New Braunfels 

Instead of visiting New Braunfels for the excitement of pumpkin patch season, why not consider making it your new home? With various floor plans, styles, and ownership options being developed right now, Mayfair is a world-class residential development in New Braunfels that makes a perfect home base for year-round fun in the Texas Hill Country and beyond. Much like you might circle the pumpkin patch for hours before selecting the perfect orange gourd that speaks to your unique aesthetics, Mayfair offers various unit types and purchasing options to fit every style. 

There is no better time to move to New Braunfels, TX, by way of Mayfair than right now. After all, as soon as pumpkin patch season wraps up, another postcard-perfect Christmas in New Braunfels is just around the corner, and you won’t want to miss it. 

New Braunfels, TX, is known for its unique old-world charm, its beautiful location at the rim of the Texas Hill Country, and its ability to give residents and visitors a genuine small-town feel within easy striking distance of San Antonio and its many amenities. For more than a week every autumn, however, New Braunfels is also known for a paradox. That’s because every November, the best thing about New Braunfels… is the wurst.

What Is Wurstfest in New Braunfels, Texas?

Wurstfest is an Oktoberfest-style celebration that occurs at a seriously impressive scale, outdoing even many celebrations “back in the old country.” Wurstfest New Braunfels includes everything you’d expect from a Texas-sized celebration of German culture: 

While New Braunfels residents are among the most dedicated revelers, the New Braunfels Wurstfest also sees an annual influx of out-of-town visitors, with total Wurstfest attendance nearing a quarter million people in recent years!

When Is Wurstfest in New Braunfels 2023?

Wurstfest New Braunfels 2023 is coming up fast and will occur November 3-12. Visitors planning a trip to Texas centered on a visit to Wurstfest will have a full ten-day window in which to make their way to our unique Alpine-Texan celebration, but be aware that the schedule of events and entertainers can change from day to day. 

For a full, up-to-date schedule, you can pay a visit to the official New Braunfels, Texas, Wurstfest website at wurstfest.com, which features a detailed breakdown of where and when all your favorite Wurstfest acts will be performed. 

Some of the acts in the 2023 lineup include: 

Getting Involved in New Braunfels Wurstfest

If you’re ready to be part of the Alpine action and celebrate Old World Bavaria under the big Texas sky, there are a number of ways you can get involved in Wurstfest: 

Mayfair, TX – The Ultimate Home for Wurstfest Enthusiasts

If you love the Bavarian vibes and Old World charm of your annual Wurstfest visit, a permanent home in New Braunfels might be more accessible than you think. Visit the Mayfair New Braunfels main page and click the “Stay Connected” link in the upper left corner so that you can be the first to know about new units available. 

New Braunfels, Texas, continues to bring in new permanent residents and vacationers thanks to its improved economy and memorable attractions. Gruene is a quaint, nearby community popular with tourists and located on the lovely Guadalupe River. For those visiting the tight community, several bed and breakfast locations are available so you can get a good night’s sleep and a great morning meal before you explore the area. 

Many homeowners in the community originally stayed at bed and breakfasts in order to take in the local sights and atmosphere, falling in love with the area. If you’re looking for a bed and breakfast in Gruene, here are the best places to stay during your vacation in the Gruene and New Braunfels area. 

Gruene B&B 

You may see this result pop up when doing research, as the lodging you’re requesting is in the name itself. Gruene B&B consists of a 10-acre property home with five different cottages. All cottages are within walking distance, yet staff have ensured that each one allows guests to feel secure and private. Each morning, this location treats guests to breakfast, including coffee, breakfast bars, fruit, and more. While you can use this area solely for lodging, there are also other amenities such as outdoor grilling and washing machines that you can use as desired. Gruene B&B is only one mile from nearby downtown. 

Comal Inn 

Comal Inn is designed as a getaway for couples, groups of friends, or yourself. Home to several cottages and private rooms, you’re sure to be fully rested before you enjoy a hearty breakfast of various fruits, cereal, beverages, and more. Several different room types are available, each fully furnished with WiFi and cable TV. For a more spacious environment, you can rent a cottage with two king-sized beds, a pull-out sofa, cable TV, WiFi, an outdoor grill, and more. 

No matter if you’re simply taking a break or need a space for a special occasion, Comal Inn can provide the accommodations you need to make long-lasting memories. 

Gruene River Inn 

One of the more recent lodging sites in New Braunfels is the Gruene River Inn. With excellent interior design and worthwhile amenities, this bed and breakfast is excellent, especially for those who enjoy fishing or swimming. This inn is located near the Guadalupe River, one of the most historic locations in the area that spans over 200 miles. Guests are welcome to enjoy the river’s refreshing stream or improve their fishing skills. 

Gruene Mansion Inn Hotel 

Arguably one of the most known B&Bs in the area, the Gruene Mansion Inn Hotel’s quaint design and vast array of amenities allow families and individuals alike to feel refreshed, entertained, and satisfied. Vacations should be memorable and allow you to relax and relieve your daily stresses. With an on-site coffee shop, picnic area, golf course, and more, this inn includes everything you need to enjoy a wonderful trip to New Braunfels. When you need a break from the entertainment and want to relax, Gruene Mansion Inn Hotel offers city and landmark views, which may help you relax and take in the nearby scenery. 

Lamb’s Rest Inn 

For couples in love looking to enjoy a relaxing getaway in New Braunfels, Lamb’s Rest Inn offers a gorgeous inn located near the Guadalupe River. While breakfast, WiFi, and parking are included in your rates, this inn is home to several vivid sights, including colorful gardens, decorative guest rooms, and more. Every amenity needed for a memorable and romantic lodging area can be found at Lamb’s Rest Inn, and it’s no surprise this is one of the most recommended B&Bs in the Gruene area. 

Gruene Homestead Inn 

New homeowners continue to arrive in New Braunfels thanks to its increasing opportunities and beautiful agriculture. This community was first founded in the mid-1800s and continues to be a tourist attraction for many across the globe. If the history of New Braunfels intrigues you, Gruene Homestead Inn offers a historical B&B location. Whether you want to relax and take in the local scenery or explore the Comal River with your raft or inner tube, Gruene Homestead Inn may be the inn of choice for you. 

Kuebler Waldrip Haus Bed and Breakfast 

This B&B is a fantastic option for those interested in history. Here, you can stay in a former one-room schoolhouse built in 1863 that has been authentically restored, as well as a renovated house built by German pioneers in 1847. For a newer option, the B&B has a beautiful cottage on the property built in a vintage style. They have choices for everyone, whether you’re just taking your partner or your whole family. You can choose to rent out one structure, individual rooms, or every building on the property for a family reunion. You also get a delicious, hot breakfast when you stay here. 

Gruene River Haven 

Located on the Guadalupe River, this property is a beautiful option. Choose the Gruene River Haven if you’re planning on taking a large group, as it is a house for rent with nine bedrooms. However, you may be able to rent individual rooms. Here, you can enjoy a number of different outdoor activities. Sit in the backyard and watch the river on the heated patio, make dinner on the grill or wood smoker, make a bonfire to roast marshmallows, or use the kayaks and tubes for a day on the river. If you have more than 22 people in your party, there’s even a luxurious camper available with several amenities.  

Experience Everything Gruene Can Offer 

Gruene includes history, attractions, and a thriving community. Whether you’re looking for somewhere close to shopping, the rivers, or the wilderness, you’re sure to find a quaint, comfortable place to stay.  

If the local B&Bs and attractions have inspired you to relocate to New Braunfels, Mayfair is currently working to construct new homes that could be yours in the future. 

Several attractions make New Braunfels, Texas, a memorable and enjoyable location. From museums to zoos, the New Braunfels community has it all. Other activities like shopping, biking, and sports may be enjoyable, but if the heat is too much or you want something less physical, going tubing is a fantastic alternative. For those who enjoy river tubing or want to experience it for the first time, consider planning a day of tubing at the Comal or Guadalupe Rivers! 

What Is River Tubing? 

River tubing involves riding an inner tube down a river. This can be done in a relaxing or energetic manner, as many people who use river tubes do so for sport. No matter your physique or age, anyone can enjoy Comal and Guadalupe river tubing. 

River tubing is most often a more gentle activity than other water activities. You can either bring your own tube or rent one from a local company. Tubing usually takes place at a part of the water with a strong enough current to let you travel. While you may get wet, you can avoid falling off of the tube entirely. Of course, it’s highly recommended to wear a safety vest in case you do go in the water. 

Comal River Float 

Both residents and vacationers in New Braunfels have enjoyed navigating the Comal River, and for good reason. The river is shorter than the nearby Guadalupe River, and the water is generally more calm. The Comal River spans nearly two and a half miles, with a temperature fluctuating between 70 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. For beginners or those wanting a shorter and more relaxing experience, Comal River tubing may be the activity for you. 

The Comal River tends to get quite busy during the late spring up to early fall. Texas is known for its significant heat in the summer, and the river’s calm and refreshing water may be just what you need. 

Guadalupe River Float

The Guadalupe River is much larger than the Comal River, spanning nearly 230 miles from the San Antonio Bay to the Gulf of Mexico. 

For more experienced swimmers and tubing enthusiasts, the Guadalupe River offers a longer and more scenic view of New Braunfels. If you don’t mind a longer and more involved tubing experience, the Guadalupe River can be a memorable break from the intense Texas heat. 

The Rules of River Tubing 

If you’re considering visiting either the Comal or Guadalupe River to enjoy a day of tubing, there are some ground rules you must be aware of. 

Any disposable items, including cans, cups, bags, boxes, and bottles, are banned from the rivers. A New Braunfels disposable can ban was put into effect in order to keep rivers clean. With clean rivers, more people continue to come to visit the local community and enjoy tubing, swimming, fishing, and more. 

If you still want to bring food and beverages to the river, you’re allowed to bring resealable containers and bottles. Every person is allowed to bring one cooler, which can’t exceed 30 quarts in size. 

There are other rules to keep in mind to protect both the rivers and each other: 

By adhering to the local law, everyone can enjoy this wonderful attraction without worrying about becoming injured or put in danger. 

How to Prepare for Your Tubing Adventure 

Once you’ve decided which river you’d like to experience and what the rules are, it’s time to prepare for your fun and exciting day! 

There are certain items you’ll want to consider bringing along to either river. While none are required, each can make the tubing experience more enjoyable for everyone. 

Once you’ve gathered all of the necessary items, you’re ready to experience a tubing adventure you can only find in New Braunfels. 

The Texas Hill Country is a breathtaking natural area stretching between Austin and San Antonio, Texas. It is known for its wineries and olive oil operations; its dramatic scenery, miles of hiking trails, legendary barbecue joints, and has made it a favorite destination for fall recreation for millions of visitors. In the winter months, the beautiful Texas Hill Country vistas and scenic roadways make the perfect backdrop for a hometown country Christmas.

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Covid-19 created ongoing changes and trends that we are still experiencing over two years later. The way we interact with others, the way we work, and even the way we live have all been affected and changed due to the pandemic. Some changes that have taken place have proved positive, improving our way of life and ensuring ongoing health and happiness.

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You might be surprised to learn that Texas has 19 ‘wine trails,’ or specific regions with a concentration of Texas wineries to tour. Undoubtedly, one of the most popular is the Texas Hill Country Wine Trail. This popular “trail” features over 50 wineries offering wine sampling, vineyard touring, dining and shopping. This means a weekend full of fun, flavor and relaxation for locals and visitors alike.

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When people talk about visiting (or moving to) the Texas Hill Country, a region in Central Texas, they most often refer to the area’s natural wonders. Attractions include the epic water sports opportunities found at nearby lakes including Canyon Lake, Lake Dunlap, Lake McQueeney, and Lake Placid, and a boutique culinary industry. Culinary offerings include high-end wines and olive oils that can compete with other high-end producing regions.

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If you’ve recently started looking for a change in scenery, vibe, and weather, New Braunfels, Texas, has something to offer for everyone.

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