Activities
Wondering what to do at the Oatmeal Festival in Bertram, Texas? Discover all the Oatmeal Festival activities happening on September 26, 2026 — from parades and live music to contests and a street dance.
A Full Day of Fun
in Downtown Bertram
From a morning fun run to an evening street dance — the 49th Annual Oatmeal Festival is packed with free activities for every age.
Annual festival — a deeply rooted community tradition
Admission — all day, all ages, no tickets needed
The year it all started — nearly five decades of fun
🏃 “Run for Your Oats” – 3.3 Mile Fun Run
Kick off festival day on foot! The “Run for Your Oats” 3.3 mile fun run winds through the streets of Bertram. Onsite registration is available the morning of the event — a $10 late fee applies.
🎠 The Grande Parade
The Grande Parade is one of Bertram’s most beloved traditions. Floats, horses, community groups, and local spirit fill Vaughan Street in a celebration you won’t want to miss. Come early and claim your curb!
Oatmeal Festival Activities for Everyone to Enter
Put your skills — and your sense of humor — to the test. Contests are open to all ages and skill levels.
Oatmeal Bake-Off
Think your oatmeal recipe is the best in Burnet County? Drop off your entry in the morning — judges decide, and winners are announced at the Festival Stage in the afternoon. Free to enter.
Enter to WinFun & Zany Games
Only-in-Texas silly competitions for the whole family — tortilla toss, egg toss, cow chip kicking, and the stick horse race. Sign up on-site right after the Grande Parade. Open to all ages — guaranteed to make you laugh whether you’re playing or cheering from the sidelines.
All AgesPet Parade
Does your pet have star quality? All pets are welcome — no cap on entries — for a short, costume-filled parade to the Festival Stage. Compete in six fun categories, from “Best in Oat” to “Oatstanding Duo.” Don’t miss the Hill Country Humane Society’s MASH Unit with adoptable pets throughout the day.
Prizes AwardedWasher Tournament
A Texas staple. Grab a partner and compete in this classic washer toss tournament behind City Hall. Sign up in the morning and play your way to the top of the bracket.
Prizes AwardedFun for Every Age
No ticket required — just show up and explore. The festival grounds are packed with free activities all afternoon long.
Kids Zone – Johnnie Mae Wheeler Park
A free, all-ages play area in Johnnie Mae Wheeler Park packed with yard games like Four Across and Jenga, sidewalk chalk, creative activities, and a mini train ride. Plus the crowd favorite — the Oatmeal Dig! Kids dig through a kiddie pool filled with oatmeal to uncover hidden toy surprises inside. Open all afternoon.
Free · All AgesCar Show
Back for its second year after a 20-year hiatus, Bertram’s Car Show returns bigger than ever with four official car groups joining in. See vintage rides, hot rods, trucks, and motorcycles on display from 8:30 AM–2:00 PM, with Best in Show and category awards announced around 1:00 PM.
Judged ShowLive Art & Raffle
Watch a local artist create original work right before your eyes on Vaughan Street. This year’s artist has been confirmed — full details coming soon! A raffle will also be held for a chance to take home original artwork.
Artist Confirmed🛍️ 90+ Vendor Booths & Food
Local artisans, small businesses, food booths, and some of the best flavors in the Hill Country — all set up right in the heart of downtown Bertram. Browse, taste, shop, and discover something new.
Vendor applications close Monday, August 24, 2026. Interested in a vendor booth? Apply here →
Music All Day Long
The Festival Stage comes alive with live music from noon through the evening. Two performers are confirmed so far, with more of the lineup still being finalized.
2 of 4 Slots Confirmed — More Coming SoonPerformer Coming Soon
Performer Coming Soon
Daniel Hopkins
Central Texas country artist and classically trained vocalist, known for high-energy shows blending original songs with classic covers.
Bryan Groce
Central Texas singer-songwriter with a decade of experience playing dance halls, town squares, and festivals across the Hill Country.
End the Night Dancing
After the sun sets, the party moves to the street. Grab your boots and join us for a free Texas street dance under the stars on Vaughan Street.
Opening Performance
A great local act to warm up the crowd and get everyone on their feet. Announcement coming soon!
Ben Watson
Hill Country musician, previously seen taking the stage at the Burnet Bluebonnet Festival. Raw, authentic Texas country to close out the night.
Join Us September 26
Mark your calendar, spread the word, and come be part of a Texas tradition nearly five decades in the making. Free admission — just bring your appetite for fun.