Explore events and activities
Check the schedule for live entertainment and activities.
Experience the Bratwurst Festival!
Join us for a weekend filled with delicious food, exciting events, and vibrant parades. Our Big Act will be on Friday, August 14th @ 9:00 PM. We are excited to host The Kentucky Headhunters!
Festival Info
The Bratwurst Fest Has Something for Everyone
Whether you're coming to eat your weight in handcrafted bratwurst, compete for a crown, set up a booth, or just soak in three days of live music and small-town energy — the Bucyrus Bratwurst Festival has a role for you. No two visits look the same, and that's exactly the point.
Register as a vendor
Submit your application to sell food or merchandise at the festival.
Learn about our royalty pageants
The Bratwurst Fest has pageants for Queen, Princess, and Jr. Princess.
Schedule
Three Days of Brats, Bands, and Bragging Rights
Join us for a weekend filled with thrilling activities and unforgettable moments. From live performances to exciting contests, there's something for everyone!
There are no upcoming events.
Registration
Join Us as a Vendor or Enter to Win Our 50/50! Proceeds benefit Bucyrus Backpack Program!
Participate in our exciting contests, pageants, and events. Apply as a food vendor or merchant. Registration is simple and ensures your spot in the fun at the Bratwurst Festival!
Apply as a Vendor
Our festival offers a vibrant platform to connect with thousands of attendees.
Apply Now
Enter our 50/50!
One Winner will receieve 50% and Bucyrus Backpack Program will benefit from the other 50%!
Enter Now!
2026 Bucyrus Bratwurst Festival 5K Color Run/Walk
Join us Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. at Bucyrus High School (900 W. Perry St., Bucyrus, OH) for the annual Bratwurst Festival 5K Color Run/Walk! The race features professional chip timing, a post-race drink from Lightning Nutrition, age-group awards, and an optional color station finish. Every runner/walker registered by August 1 gets a T-shirt. Entry is $35 through August 1, then $45 afterward (also $45 for race-day registration).
Call for entries! 2026 Bratwurst Festival Art Show
Ready to show off your talent? Submissions are officially open for the Bratwurst Festival Art Show!
How to get your entry form:
Print at home: Download and print the form.
or
Pick up in person: Stop by the Crawford County Art Center during our regular hours (117 N Sandusky Ave, Bucyrus) to pick up a printed form.
Important Submission Details:
- Up to 3 entries per artist, each piece requires its own form.
- Physical art drop off days are August 9-11th, 2026 between 1pm & 6pm at the Crawford County Art Center.
- Digital artwork may be submitted by emailing: [email protected] by August 10th, 2026.
Please check out the entry form image below for full rules, prize categories, and details. We can’t wait to see your work!
Have questions? Please reach out to [email protected]
Kiersten Markland & Joe Graham
Co-Directors
Crawford County Art Center
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to your questions about food, entertainment, contests, and more!
The festival is held in downtown Bucyrus along Sandusky Avenue.
Admission to the festival is free! Bring spending money for food, drinks, and activities.
The festival opens daily at 11 AM and runs until 11 PM Thursday through Saturday.
The third weekend in August in downtown Bucyrus, Ohio. 2026 – August 13, 14, 15
Many vendors offer alternative menu items—check the vendor listings or ask directly at the booth.
Yes! Vendor applications open early each year. Visit our Eventeny page for registration information and deadlines.
You’ll find Bucyrus’ world-famous bratwurst, local favorites, and dozens of food vendors offering everything from traditional festival fare to unique treats.
Yes, accessible parking spots are available near the festival perimeter—look for signage and volunteers who can assist.
Public parking is available at several nearby lots and private locations. Visit the Parking page for a map and list of locations. Please note that parking fees are set by private property owners, not the festival.
Yes, strollers and wagons are welcome, but please be mindful of crowds.
Absolutely
For everyone’s safety, pets are not permitted in the main festival area except for service animals.
Applications and age categories are listed online each spring under the Pageant tab.
The pageant is held the weekend before the festival. Details and contestant bios can be found on our Pageant page.
Visit the Sponsors page for sponsorship levels, perks, and contact information.
Volunteers are always needed! High school students can also earn service hours. Sign up through the link on the homepage or contact us at [email protected].
The Beer Garden opens at 4-11 PM Thursday and Friday, and 2-11 PM on Saturday. Times may vary.
Yes! The Bratwurst Festival Beer Garden is located near the FC Stage. Guests must be 21+ to enter with valid ID.