3rd Annual SHOPCOVE Oktoberfest Returns to Downtown Copperas Cove September 12
COPPERAS COVE, Texas — The Copperas Cove Economic Development Corporation (CCEDC) is excited to announce the return of the 3rd Annual SHOPCOVE Oktoberfest on Saturday, September 12, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM in Downtown Copperas Cove.
The annual celebration has quickly become a signature community event, bringing thousands of residents and visitors downtown for an evening of German culture, live music, local businesses, food, beer, entertainment, contests, and community connection.
This year's event features an expanded entertainment lineup with traditional German music and performances, community groups, local businesses, and a variety of Oktoberfest contests.
"Oktoberfest is a great example of what can happen when our local businesses, community organizations, sponsors, and residents come together," said Fred Welch, Executive Director of the Copperas Cove Economic Development Corporation. "Events like this create opportunities for people to experience downtown, support local businesses, and enjoy the quality of life that makes Copperas Cove a great place to live."
A Full Evening of German Culture and Entertainment
The event begins at 4:00 PM with the opening of the vendor market, giving attendees the opportunity to shop with local businesses and vendors throughout the evening, with several will having authentic German wares and food.
The official program begins at 4:15 PM with the Presenting of the Colors by the Copperas Cove High School JROTC.
At 4:30 PM, attendees will be invited to take part in the Traditional Tapping of the Keg Ceremony with Mayor Pro Tem Vonya Hart and Council Member Dale Treadway.
The cultural programming continues throughout the evening with German folk dancing, singing, local performances, and Oktoberfest traditions.
2026 Oktoberfest Schedule
4:00 PM | Vendor Market Opens
4:15 PM | Presenting of the Colors by CCHS/JROTC
4:30 PM | Traditional Tapping of the Keg Ceremony with Mayor Pro Tem Vonya Hart and Council Member Dale Treadway
4:45 PM | Volkstanz, German Folk Dance by Whitney High School
5:00 PM to 10:00 PM | Live Oktoberfest Music with Pivo & Polka Band featuring Kelsey J. Lien
5:30 PM | Stammtisch German Singing Group
6:00 PM | Dance Performance by CCHS Copperettes
6:30 PM | Bavarian Attire Contest hosted by The House on Main
7:00 PM | Brat Eating Contest hosted by Herb & Earnie's
7:30 PM | Sausage Tossing Contest hosted by Kiln + Cone
8:00 PM | Das Boot Drinking Contest hosted by Sober Sips
9:00 PM | Stein Holding Contest hosted by Nelson Brew Works
Live Music Returns to Downtown
The Pivo & Polka Band (based in San Antonio) will return to Copperas Cove for another evening of live Oktoberfest music. The band will perform from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, featuring polkas, waltzes, and Oktoberfest favorites. Last year many took to dancing along with Pivo & Polka's music for the whole night.
Community Contests
The Oktoberfest contests have become a favorite part of the event, giving attendees an opportunity to participate in the celebration.
The Bavarian Attire Contest at 6:30 PM will be hosted by The House on Main.
The Brat Eating Contest at 7:00 PM will be hosted by Herb & Earnie's.
At 7:30 PM, Kiln + Cone will host the Sausage Tossing Contest.
Sober Sips will host the Das Boot Drinking Contest at 8:00 PM (with nonalcoholic beer.)
The evening will conclude with the Stein Holding Contest at 9:00 PM, hosted by Nelson Brew Works.
Attendees are encouraged to come dressed in their Bavarian best and be ready to participate, cheer on contestants, and enjoy the festivities.
Local Businesses at the Center of Oktoberfest
SHOPCOVE Oktoberfest is designed to bring people downtown and create opportunities for local businesses to connect with residents and visitors.
The event brings together businesses of all sizes, sponsors, vendors, entertainers, community organizations, and volunteers to create an experience that supports downtown activity while giving attendees another reason to visit and enjoy Copperas Cove.
The event also demonstrates the role quality-of-life programming can play in economic development. Communities that offer opportunities for people to gather, celebrate, shop, dine, and experience local culture help create a stronger sense of place and a community where people want to live, work, and invest.
Thank You to Our 2026 Sponsors
The CCEDC extends its sincere appreciation to the businesses and organizations whose sponsorship makes SHOPCOVE Oktoberfest possible.
Brew Master Title Sponsor:
Vera Bank
Oompah Sponsors:
Dewald Properties
Edward Jones
Divine Signs
Dirndl Champion Sponsors:
Nelson Brew Works
Card My Yard
Larry's Barbershop
Moose Lodge
Warnco Air
Oil States
Renewal by Anderson
Kiln + Cone
Herb & Ernie's
Sober Sips
Stoner's Pizza Joint
Five O'l Heifers
House on Main
BAPz Designs
Pretzel Principal Sponsors:
Bill French Jewelers
Fringes & Fairways
Utterly Creative
Carothers & Carothers Exchangers, LLC
La Bee Keeper
All About Steel
Their investment in the event helps bring people downtown, supports local businesses, and contributes to the continued growth of Copperas Cove's quality of life.
Come Celebrate in Downtown Copperas Cove
The 3rd Annual SHOPCOVE Oktoberfest will take place Saturday, September 12, from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM in Downtown Copperas Cove.
Attendees can enjoy live music, German cultural performances, contests, food, beer, shopping, and an evening of community celebration.
The CCEDC invites residents from Copperas Cove and the surrounding Central Texas region to come downtown, support local businesses, bring family and friends, and celebrate Oktoberfest together.
Prost, Copperas Cove!
For more information about the event, visit www.coveedc.com/oktoberfest