Best October Festivals and Events to Attend in 2024 in Texas

October in Texas is a magical time when fall colors, cooler weather, and exciting events come together to create the perfect atmosphere for adventure and celebration. Whether you’re into Oktoberfest brews, harvest festivals, or spooky Halloween parades, Texas has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best October festivals and events in Texas for 2024, along with travel tips to make the most of your experience.

1. Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg

Dates: October 4-6, 2024
Fredericksburg’s Oktoberfest is one of the most authentic German festivals in Texas. This three-day event features traditional German food, drinks, music, and dancing. You can enjoy local craft beers, Bavarian-style pretzels, and lively polka performances. Don’t forget to participate in the stein-holding competition, or shop for unique handmade items from local vendors.

Travel Tips:

• Stay Local: Book your accommodation in advance, as hotels in Fredericksburg fill up quickly during Oktoberfest.
• Parking: There is limited parking available, so consider taking a shuttle service to avoid the hassle of finding a spot.
• Dress Code: Embrace the spirit of Oktoberfest by dressing in dirndls or lederhosen!
• Tickets: Although Advance ticket sales are closed, they can be purchased 12 pm at the gate of opening day.

2. Texas Renaissance Festival in Todd Mission

Dates: Weekends, September 30 – November 26, 2024
The Texas Renaissance Festival is a must-attend event for those who love stepping back in time. With themed weekends, including Oktoberfest, pirate adventures, and a Celtic Christmas, this festival spans eight weekends and offers something unique for everyone. From jousting tournaments to medieval-inspired feasts, it’s the perfect family-friendly fall festival.

Travel Tips:

• Tickets: Purchase your tickets online in advance for discounts and shorter entry lines.
• Campgrounds: Consider staying in the nearby campgrounds if you’re planning to attend multiple weekends.
• Family Fun: The festival offers special activities for children, making it a great destination for families.

3. Austin City Limits Music Festival

Dates: October 4-6 & October 11-13, 2024
Austin’s world-renowned Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival takes over Zilker Park for two weekends of music, food, and art. With headlining performances from major international artists across multiple stages, ACL is the ultimate destination for music lovers in October. In addition to the live music, enjoy local food vendors, artist showcases, and even activities for kids at the Austin Kiddie Limits section.

Travel Tips:

• Book Early: Hotels in Austin fill up fast during ACL, so book your accommodations early to secure the best options.
• Transportation: Use rideshare apps or public transportation, as parking can be a challenge near Zilker Park.
• Stay Hydrated: Texas can still be hot in October, so be sure to drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen.

4. Texas State Fair in Dallas

Dates: September 27 – October 20, 2024
No list of Texas fall events would be complete without mentioning the iconic Texas State Fair. Held at Fair Park in Dallas, this massive event features everything from classic fair rides to culinary competitions and livestock shows. One of the highlights is the famous Fletcher’s Corny Dogs, a must-try for any first-time visitor. The fair also features concerts, a car show, and a massive collection of arts and crafts vendors.

Travel Tips:

• Discount Days: Look for special discount days where entry fees are reduced or parking is free.
• Plan Your Day: With so much to see and do, create a plan for the day to make sure you don’t miss out on your favorite activities.
• Fair Food: Come hungry! The food stalls at the fair are legendary, offering everything from deep-fried delicacies to gourmet treats.

5. Dia de los Muertos Festival in San Antonio

Dates: October 26-27, 2024
San Antonio’s Dia de los Muertos festival is one of the largest and most vibrant celebrations of Mexican culture in Texas. This event features live music, traditional dance performances, altars, and incredible displays of art. The festival’s parade, with participants dressed as skeletons, is a highlight of the celebration. Don’t forget to try the traditional pan de muerto (bread of the dead) while you’re there!

Travel Tips:

• Cultural Respect: While this festival is a lot of fun, it’s important to remember that Dia de los Muertos is also a solemn cultural tradition. Be respectful when observing the altars and displays.
• Arrive Early: This popular event draws large crowds, so arriving early will give you the chance to explore without the rush.
• Art Shopping: This festival is a great opportunity to purchase unique Mexican art and handicrafts.

6. Wurstfest in New Braunfels

Dates: October 25 – November 3, 2024
This 10-day festival celebrates German culture, particularly its food and drink. Wurstfest features a wide array of sausages, beers, and traditional German dishes, all while being entertained by music and dance performances. Nestled along the banks of the Comal River, this is one of Texas’s most scenic fall festivals.

Travel Tips:

• Shuttle Services: New Braunfels offers shuttle services to Wurstfest, so you can enjoy the festival without worrying about parking.
• Stay Near: If you’re visiting from out of town, book a room nearby as the festival is a multi-day event and offers plenty of opportunities for repeat visits.
• Family Friendly: Although beer is a main attraction, there are plenty of activities for kids, making this a fun event for families.

7. Houston’s Halloween Monster Mash

Date: October 31, 2024
If you’re looking for a spooky celebration, Houston’s Halloween Monster Mash is a family-friendly Halloween festival that’s all about costumes, candy, and creative displays. In addition to the costume contest, there are pumpkin carving stations, trick-or-treating, and spooky decorations everywhere.

Travel Tips:

• Costume Ready: Join in the fun by dressing up in your best Halloween costume.
• Public Transportation: Parking can be limited, so consider using Houston’s METRO system or rideshare services.

Virtual Options for 2024

For those who can’t attend in person or prefer to celebrate from home, many festivals and events are offering virtual experiences. Look out for live-streamed concerts from the Austin City Limits Festival, virtual tours of Dia de los Muertos altars, and online contests for Oktoberfest celebrations. Be sure to check the official websites of these events for virtual options closer to the festival dates.