Hofbrau Stein-holding Competition

A Test of Strength & Endurance

Try your hand - and arm - at a game called Masskrugstemmen, or “beer stein holding.” Masskrugstemmen is not a drinking game. It’s a test of strength and endurance.

It sounds easier than it is...

Hold the official Hofbrau glass stein filled with one liter of beer (33 ounces or 5 pounds!) with your arm extended out in front of you and parallel to the floor. No bending the elbows. No spilling the beer. No straying from the parallel position.

After the first minute, which they call the “honeymoon,” a contestant’s arms begins to tremble, the sweat begins pouring down their face and they grimace with pain. Last person still holding - wins!

Register Today!

Sounds like fun, right? 

Hofbrau and McKinney Oktoberfest are looking for men and women who love beer - and a challenge - to compete in the Masskrugstemmen contest at McKinney’s Oktoberfest on Saturday, September 23! The person with the longest time wins free room and board for the next round of the Hofbrau Masskrugstemmen competition in New York City in 2024!

The sport – and they do call it a sport – has been popular at German Oktoberfests for many years.

So, start practicing now if you think you’ve got what it takes because in Germany the reported record is 20 minutes and 13 seconds!

  • Registration is $25 and includes official Hofbrau Stein and beer.
  • The competition will take place Saturday, Sep 23 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Bavarian Experience Stage on East Louisiana St. Please check in at least 20 minutes before the competition starts.
  • You must be 21 or older to participate. 

Official Rules

Hofbrau