Amana, Iowa
Celebrate all things sausage during the Amana Colonies Wurst Festival, a fun-filled summer tradition honoring one of the community’s most beloved foods. Rooted in German heritage, the Amana Colonies Wurst Festival brings together great flavors, live entertainment, and small-town charm for a weekend of unforgettable experiences.
Visitors can enjoy German-inspired food, savory sausage specialties, and a variety of activities throughout the villages. Live music and entertainment help create a festive atmosphere, while the popular Amana Colonies Wurst Festival parade adds color, humor, and community spirit as it makes its way through the village.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the event or visiting for the first time, the Amana Colonies Wurst Festival offers a flavorful celebration of heritage, hospitality, and summertime fun in the heart of the Amana Colonies.
A Look Back at Amana Colonies Wurst Festival 2025
June 13th (evening only) & 14th, 2025
Come join us for our annual Amana Colonies Wurst Festival! The German tradition of making sausages is alive and well in the Colonies at the Market Barn in the village of Amana. You’ll find local sausage vendors, beer, drinks, desserts, and sides. Judges will select a “Judge’s Choice” winner, while YOU will select the people’s choice winner “First in Wurst”. Be sure to try from all the booths and vote for your favorite. We will have fun yard games, live music, and the Wurst University to round out the event.
The Wurst Games and Raising Cane’s Dachshund Derby*
Watch as majestic local Dachshunds compete to be the “Wurst Dog in Eastern Iowa” in the Raising Cane’s Dachshund Derby! See their tiny little legs carry them as fast as they can go across the finish line. Any and all Dachshunds are welcome to enter. 1st place in each of the six categories: Lil Smokies (< 1 year), Frankfurters (1-3 years), Bratwursts (4-7 years), Ahle Wurst (8+ years), Thuringer Brat (dachshunds with disabilities), and Curry Wurst (mixed breed), will receive a trophy and a $20 Amana Colonies gift certificate. See the Dachshund Derby Registration Form or contact the Visitors Center at 319-622-7622 for details. $5 cash entry fee per dog.
Dogs must be registered to participate and are required to have proof of vaccinations. You must check in by 4:45pm with your pup to make sure you get a spot in the races!
*Please note, only participating Dachshunds and service dogs allowed at Market Barn.
Check out the full event brochure on this web page for events happening throughout Amana at local businesses.