Oktoberfest events will look a bit different this year, with the COVID-19 pandemic making it unwise to clink glasses with strangers or pull a stranger in close for a polka. But McKinney’s “Parktoberfest” event Saturday looks to replicate some of the best portions of the tradition while still keeping residents and guests safe.
Similar to previous drive-in concerts at the Cotton Mill near Tupps Brewery, the event will be ticketed by car, with each parking space coming with an area good for tailgating or relaxing a safe distance from neighboring spots.
That will allow guests to enjoy musical headliners the Brave Combo, the North Texas band known for its world music and polka, which goes on at about 8:30. The Maylee Thomas Band is slated to open at 7:30 p.m.
Prior to that, at 7:15 p.m., there will be a root beer stein holding competition between the McKinney Fire Department and their counterparts from the McKinney Police Department. TUPPS will tap a keg at 6:45 p.m., with beers such as its recently released McKinney Oktoberfest and other standards plus food from food trucks available on site.
Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Tickets, which must be purchased in advance, are $65 and available online.
