As the sun rises on the final day of the 17th annual McKinney Oktoberfest, the city of McKinney, Texas, is buzzing with excitement. The past 24 hours have been a whirlwind of German-themed fun, delicious food, and lively entertainment.

### Weather
The weather has been cooperative, with clear skies and mild temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor festivities. As of today, September 29, the forecast shows a high of around 75°F, ideal for a day filled with activities.

### Oktoberfest Highlights
Last night, the festival grounds in Historic Downtown McKinney were alive with music, dancing, and traditional German cuisine. The VIP Biergarten, sponsored by Blue Box, offered an exclusive experience with upgraded beer and food options, providing a serene retreat from the bustling festival.

The main stages featured a Grammy-winning polka band, Alpine dancing troupes, and strolling accordion musicians, keeping the crowd entertained throughout the evening. The annual keg tapping tradition took place on Friday at 6:30 p.m. at the Prost Stage, marking the official start of the celebrations.

### Family Fun
Children and adults alike enjoyed the Ponies & Pals Petting Zoo, where they could interact with miniature farm animals, including goats, sheep, and llamas. Other children’s activities included the Kinder Korner, a rock climbing wall, bounce houses, and face painting.

### Games and Competitions
Yesterday saw the Weenie Dog Races and Wannabe Races, which drew large crowds. The Bier Stein Races and Marionette Drinking Game, using root beer and water, added a fun and family-friendly twist to traditional beer games. Today, the festivities continue with the Brat Eating Competition from 3 – 4 p.m., where contestants will vie to see who can eat the most brats in eight minutes.

### Local Flavors
The festival has showcased authentic German flavors from Hofbrau and TUPPS Brewery, along with wine from Landon Winery and Lone Star Cellars. Traditional German dishes like brats, sausages, schnitzel, and strudel have been a hit among attendees.

### Air Quality and Pollen Count
As for local environmental conditions, the air quality in McKinney remains good, with minimal pollutants detected. The pollen count is moderate, with a mix of grass, tree, and weed pollen present, but not at alarming levels.

### Community Spirit
The event is free to attend, thanks to the support of various local sponsors, including McKinney Main Street, City of McKinney, and Tomes Auto Group. The ticketless system has made the experience seamless for everyone, allowing for easy purchases of food, beer, and activities using credit cards and digital payment options.

As the final day of McKinney Oktoberfest unfolds, the city is filled with the spirit of community and celebration. Whether you're enjoying the live music, savoring German cuisine, or participating in the various games and competitions, there's something for everyone in this vibrant Texas town. Prost