Celebrating the German culture in the U.S. and the heritage of the Boerne area, Boerne Berges Fest is a can’t-miss free festival taking place this summer in beautiful Texas Hill Country. Hosted during Father’s Day weekend from June 15 to 17, this family-friendly festival celebrates Boerne’s roots and over the past 52 years, has become one of the area’s most anticipated weekends.
Boerne’s largest festival of the year, the Berges Fest started in 1967 as an effort to encourage commerce and drive interest in local businesses. The inaugural event was an ice cream social and has grown today to a three-day celebration of the community’s German heritage drawing thousands of locals from Hill Country as well as from all over the state.
A stateside Oktoberfest in June, Boerne Berges Fest comes with plenty of attractions for the entire family. Kicking off with a parade in downtown Boerne along main street, adults and kids alike get the first taste of the traditional German outfits aboard decorated floats as well as the classic music, setting the mood for the rest of the weekend.
Head over to Kendall County Fairgrounds for the main events, where the family can participate in teams in wheelbarrow races, sack races, dizzy bat races and the egg toss throughout the day on both Saturday and Sunday. The afternoon also sees Dachshund races, where owners set their short-legged wiener dogs against each other, competing to see who reaches the finish line first.
The Berges Fest also has a carnival that runs all weekend featuring classic carnival rides like a merry go round, Tilt-A-Whirl, and swings perfect for keeping the family entertained throughout the day between activities. Grab a bite to eat from one of the local food vendors and head to a live music show, featuring traditional German music from local bands.
Round out the day Saturday with a watermelon eating contest, which kids and parents alike can participate in, and explore offerings from local arts and crafts-makers throughout the festival grounds. With food, music, and plenty activities the Boerne Berges Fest has become a true San Antonio area bucket list item and a can’t miss for you and your family this summer!
