If you can't make it to Germany this year for Oktoberfest, don't fret, Corpus Christi has you covered! Celebrate the 209-year-old German tradition with a coastal twist at Surftoberfest - one of the most magical annual beer festivals in Corpus Christi! This fest brings the German tradition of beer-drinking and polka dancing to sea-level with the coolest display of vintage Volkswagens around as surf and German cultures collide with these quintessential beach mobiles throughout the festival. If you're here to hang ten at Surftoberfest this year, make the most out of your trip with these things to do in the Gulf Coast Capital.

Here's what you can experience at Surftoberfest: 
 
Celebrate the local brewery scene
No Surftoberfest is complete without beer! Sample local brews on tap from all of Corpus Christi's local breweries and raise your stein to over 50 different beers available! Make your Surftoberfest memorable and buy a souvenir stein at the start of the festival. Bonus: You can refill as you go. Prost!
 
Enjoy live entertainment
Dance to the sounds of a wide range of genres including Polka, Surf Polka, American Surf Rock, and Country happening on two stages all day long!
 
Participate in a stein-holding competition
Do you think you've got what it takes to be the last one standing holding a beer-filled stein? Join in on this unique competition or just be a spectator for this traditional competition!
 
Wear fun festival attire with your pets
Kick off costume season early with the Surftoberfest pet costume contest! Humans can participate, too! Put on your favorite pair of lederhosen and join your pet in the fun.
 
There’s a kid zone for the little ones
Check out the Peace, Love, and Earth Kids Zone at Surftoberfest. This is a newly imagined kid’s activity space places an emphasis on conservation through education and art with a fun twist.
 
Savor classic German food
What's a festival without delicious traditional German food? Enjoy massive hot pretzels, German-style pizza, and other classic German fares.
 
 

 

Extend your trip to the coast: 

While you’re here, extend your trip and explore the Gulf Coast Capital. Sip on cold brews at bars and breweries, soak up the sun along our stunning beaches, explore local attractions, and try Corpus Christi’s vibrant food scene. Make the most of your Surftoberfest weekend with our city’s rich culture and endless adventures.   

Tour Breweries

Take a tour of the local craft brewery scene in Corpus Christi! With several breweries that serve up the classics and unique drinks like pickle beer and hard kombucha, you're in for a treat with a coastal twist. Visit our brewery tour blog for the full guide to Corpus Christi's craft beer community.

 

Roam the Beach

The fall is the perfect time to hit the beach! Grab a crowler to-go from a local brewery, pick up some food on Padre Island, set up a campfire, and have a memorable beach party. Temperatures are still mild in the fall, making Corpus Christi an ideal outdoor destination even in October! Take a trip to the beach, but first, read up on everything you need to know before hitting the beaches, including information on beach permits.

*Please note that there is a burn ban in effect in Nueces County until November 18, 2025.

 

 

Explore Top Attractions

Visit five of the top attractions in the Gulf Coast Capital!
 
USS Lexington Museum - Climb aboard this legendary World War II aircraft carrier in Corpus Christi and explore hands-on exhibits, vintage aircraft, and fascinating naval history. It’s one of the city’s most iconic waterfront attractions.
Art Museum of South Texas - Located along the Corpus Christi Bayfront, this museum showcases an inspiring mix of contemporary, regional, and cultural art. Enjoy rotating exhibits and breathtaking views of the water while you explore.
South Texas Botanical Gardens & Nature Center - Stroll through colorful gardens, orchid houses, and scenic nature trails in Corpus Christi. This lush escape is home to exotic plants, tropical birds, and butterfly habitats.
Texas State Aquarium - One of Corpus Christi’s top family attractions, the Texas State Aquarium brings the Gulf of Mexico to life with interactive marine exhibits, touch pools, and daily wildlife presentations.
Corpus Christi Museum of Science & History - Learn about the Corpus Christi's unique history, from shipwrecks and Spanish exploration to natural science. Uncover stories that connect the past to the present and spark your curiosity for what’s next.
 
Check out our guide to Corpus Christi attractions for more information.

 

Savor the Flavors of the Coast

We've got plenty of fresh flavors here in the Gulf Coast Capital! Sit back, relax, and unwind with a drink and dish by the water. We've broken down the top places to enjoy a meal with a view and where to enjoy a meal outdoors. If you're more of a brunch goer who enjoys a mimosa or two, check out our ultimate brunch guide, and a trip to Corpus Christi isn't complete until you've tried our epic array of oysters available in the city! For more casual eats, explore places to find the best burgers, pizza, and BBQ. 

 

Be sure to check out our events page to see what’s coming up during your stay. Our interest-based visitor guides make it easy to plan the perfect trip. And for the latest updates, insider tips, and local highlights delivered straight to your inbox, subscribe to our newsletter today.