BUCYRUS — The 2026 Bratwurst Festival will kick off in downtown Bucyrus Aug. 13 with the opening ceremony beginning at 11 a.m. at the Schine’s Art Park stage.
For more than five decades, the annual event has brought people from all over the world to what some refer as the most “eatingest” festival in the world.
“I will be running the first bratwurst this year in honor of my grandfather that I still miss so dearly,” Bratwurst Festival Director Doug Foght said.
For several decades, his grandfather, Boyd Long, ran down Sandusky Avenue to the main stage during the opening ceremony to deliver the first bratwurst sandwich to the outgoing queen for her to take the first official bite.
Foght has continued that tradition.
“Blessed is what I am to have had him as my grandfather,” Foght said.
Each year, the festival, which is now in its 59th year, has a specific theme, and this year is no exception.
“We are looking forward to an amazing year honoring our local agricultural community that provides for us daily,” Foght said of the Brattie Harvests Community theme.
With a kiddie tractor pull planned for each day along with amusement rides, more than 70 vendors and daily contests, there is something for everyone.
“Come out and have a fun and exciting night with the Kentucky Headhunters headlining Friday night’s entertainment,” Foght said.
There will be a parade each day of the festival. After the 6 p.m. parade on Aug. 13, the 2026 Bratwurst Festival Queen and court, along with princesses, will be crowned.
Foght said the German-style festival brings everyone together.
“What I love most and have always loved about our festival is the community. It is the one time every year where everyone comes out to enjoy one another’s company,” Foght said. “Those that have moved away come back. It’s like the biggest family reunion ever.”
For more information about the festival, visit https://www.bratwurstfest.com/.
Thursday, Aug. 13
Friday, Aug. 14
Saturday, Aug. 15
This article originally appeared on Bucyrus Telegraph-Forum: Bucyrus Bratwurst Festival returns for 59th year
Reporting by Kim Gasuras, Special to Bucyrus Telegraph-Forum / Bucyrus Telegraph-Forum
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Kim Gasuras, Special to Bucyrus Telegraph-Forum | USA TODAY Network
