The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Cavern City Oktoberfest | Things to Do in Carlsbad, New Mexico

Written By Nurvis Purvis Brewing Co.

Your Weekend Guide to Cavern City Oktoberfest
The Best Things to Do in Carlsbad, New Mexico

If you're planning a trip to Cavern City Oktoberfest, Southern New Mexico's Fall Craft Beverage Festival, welcome!

Whether you're visiting for the day or making it a weekend getaway, Carlsbad offers plenty to explore beyond the festival grounds. From world-famous national parks to locally owned restaurants, breweries, and unique shopping, here's how to make the most of your Oktoberfest weekend.


Start with Cavern City Oktoberfest @ Nurvis Purvis Brewing
October 16–17, 2026

Hosted at Nurvis Purvis Brewing Co., Cavern City Oktoberfest brings together regional craft beverages, live music, local food, artisan vendors, games, competitions, and a weekend celebrating everything we love about fall.

Whether you're a craft beer enthusiast, foodie, outdoor adventurer, or just looking for a fun weekend, Cavern City Oktoberfest is the perfect reason to visit Carlsbad.

Best Places to Eat

One of the best parts about visiting Carlsbad is the incredible variety of locally owned restaurants.

  • Aquino's Deli
    Known for some of the best sandwiches in town, Aquino's is the perfect stop for a quick lunch before heading out to explore.

  • Trinity Hotel Restaurant
    A longtime local favorite offering an elevated dining experience in one of Carlsbad's most historic buildings.

  • YellowBrix Restaurant
    Fresh American cuisine with one of the nicest outdoor patios in Carlsbad.

Things to Explore

  • Carlsbad Caverns National Park
    No trip to Carlsbad is complete without experiencing one of the world's most famous cave systems. Explore massive underground chambers or catch the evening bat flight (season permitting).

  • Guadalupe Mountains National Park
    Located just south of Carlsbad, Guadalupe Mountains offers incredible hiking with breathtaking mountain scenery.

  • White Sands National Park
    If you're making a weekend trip, White Sands is an unforgettable day trip just a few hours away and one of New Mexico's most iconic landscapes.

  • Carlsbad Beach & Pecos River Walk
    Take a relaxing stroll along the Pecos River, enjoy the walking paths, playgrounds, and scenic views in the heart of town.

  • Carlsbad Mini Golf
    Located at the Municipal Golf Course, it's a fun stop for families and groups.

  • Living Desert Zoo & Gardens State Park
    Experience the wildlife and desert beauty unique to the Chihuahuan Desert through native animals, walking trails, and educational exhibits.

More Places to Grab a Drink

Looking to continue your evening?

  • Lucy's Mexican Grill
    Great food, margaritas, and a lively atmosphere.

  • Golf Society
    Indoor golf simulators, games, drinks, and a fun atmosphere whether you're a golfer or not.

  • Municipal Golf Course Driving Range
    Bring your clubs and spend an afternoon hitting balls before heading to Oktoberfest.

Shop Local

Support some of Carlsbad's locally owned businesses while you're in town.

  • CARC Bargain Store
    A treasure hunt with antiques, furniture, clothing, and unique finds while supporting an important local nonprofit.

  • Treasured Moments
    A favorite destination for scrapbookers, crafters, and paper art enthusiasts.

  • Sarah Grace Boutique
    Women's clothing, gifts, and accessories in downtown Carlsbad.

Explore Carlsbad's Craft Beverage Scene

Carlsbad's craft beverage community continues to grow, making it a great destination for beer and spirits lovers.

  • Nurvis Purvis Brewing Co.
    A retro-inspired brewery and the home of Cavern City Oktoberfest. Enjoy house-brewed beer, New Mexico craft beverages, specialty cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere.

  • Guadalupe Mountain Brewing Co.
    One of Carlsbad's local craft breweries, offering a variety of handcrafted beers & delicious pizza!

  • Barrelhead Distillery (Coming Soon)
    Carlsbad's newest craft distillery is currently in development and will add another exciting stop to the city's growing craft beverage scene.

Make It a Weekend

There's never been a better excuse to spend a weekend in Carlsbad.

  • Explore world-famous national parks.

  • Support locally owned restaurants.

  • Shop small businesses.

  • Discover New Mexico craft beverages.

  • And spend a weekend celebrating at Cavern City Oktoberfest, Southern New Mexico's Fall Beer Festival.

We can't wait to welcome you to Carlsbad this October.

Prost! 🍻

Nurvis Purvis Brewing Co.