No doubt, the most uniquely Boerne German experience that you can have this summer is dancing a polka at an Abendkonzert (Evening Concert) on Main Plaza as the sun goes down. Throughout the summer the Boerne Village Band fills the night air with traditional German songs and stories from Boerne’s early days. Dancing is always welcome!
What to Expect
Locals and visitors alike are invited to attend these free concerts. Bring your chairs and blankets to spread out, relax and enjoy the evening’s entertainment. Feel free to pack a picnic basket or make plans to purchase dinner hot off the grill from the local high school’s Band Booster Club. These events are incredibly family friendly, and it’s not uncommon for kiddos to play a pick-up game of football or Frisbee in the back of the park. The traditional Herr Schmidt, Kid’s March, and Chicken Dance are an event staple, and everyone is encouraged to come up and dance as a group. Responsible beer and wine consumption are acceptable in downtown Boerne, but please note that glass containers are not allowed in the park.
Concerts are held on Main Plaza from 7:30-9:00 pm.
The Boerne Village Band has been bringing tunes from the “mother country” to the community of Boerne since it was organized in 1860 by Dr. Karl Dienger. Dienger and the band traveled all over the Texas Hill Country performing until 1885. During the two World Wars, the band was not very active but did not disband. Because of this commitment and continued activity, though minimal at times, the band was recognized by the German Government and the State of Texas as the oldest continuously playing German Band in the world outside of Germany. The tradition has continued for 159 years! The band plays here at home, but also travels to other German festivals to share their talents and love of German music throughout the Hill Country.
Written by: Erika Yount, Boerne Visitor Center Admin