Winter Holidays and Christmas in New Braunfels

The fun doesn't stop when the temperatures drop! Even when it's too cold to tube, you'll find plenty of fun for the entire family in New Braunfels. Getaway for a day or a weekend, we have plenty of to-dos in New Braunfels.

Book your holiday stay today! Click here to browse hotels, cabins, vacation rentals, and more cozy local accommodations.

Recurring Events

Christmas at the Caverns – Various Dates in December

Carols in the caverns, a 30-foot Christmas tree, a stunning trail of lights, campfire s'mores, and even ice skating are just a few of the festivities at Natural Bridge Caverns this Christmas season! Click here for hours, details, and tickets.

Photos with Cowboy Kringle – Various Dates in November & December 

Bring the family, and even your dog, to take photos with Cowboy Kringle, the Gruene Historic District's own unique Santa Claus! Please be aware that this year will be a little bit different, but just as fun and festive as usual! Appointments must be booked online. Visit CowboyKringle.com for details and to reserve your appointment.

Santa's Ranch - Open nightly starting the first weekend of November through December 31

Nothing puts you in the holiday spirit like a drive through Santa's Ranch! 1.5 million lights make up countless colorful displays of the North Pole, gingerbread houses, nativity scenes, and more. Visit SantasRanch.net for tickets and information.

Christmas with the Critters - Mid-December through early January (Dates may vary)

Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo boasts plenty of festive animal enrichment opportunities, holiday-themed animal shows, and delicious wintery treats, along with countless other jolly festivities! Click here for this year's dates and details.

New Braunfels Farmers Market – Every Saturday, 9 am to 1 pm

The farmers market is even more special during the holidays! Local vendors bring goods that look, smell, and taste like the Christmas season, from scented candles to gorgeous ornaments and festive baked goods. View vendors on the New Braunfels Farmers Market website.

Two Tons of Steel Holiday Shows at Gruene Hall – Dates Vary

Two Tons of Steel continues to push the line between country and punk with these special holiday editions of the popular Two Ton Tuesday summer series. Show up early for $10 swing dance lessons! 

Holiday Events

November

Downtown Holiday Lighting

Ring in the holiday season with us in New Braunfels! After the Mayor officially lights up downtown with a hundred thousand twinkling lights, Santa arrives on a vintage fire truck to spread holiday cheer and take photos with the kids.

Festival of Trees

The Annual Festival of Trees is a free, family-friendly event in Gruene. Kick off the Christmas season in November by strolling through aisles of more than 30+ beautifully decorated trees and wreaths.

Weihnachstsmarkt - Weekend Before Thanksgiving

Pronounced Vy-noks-markt, this New Braunfels tradition offers the charm of open-air Christmas markets of Germany, except indoors. The market features more than 60 merchants and artisans with unique German collectibles and ornaments, holiday decorations, apparel, jewelry & gifts. Happy Shopping!

December

Wassailfest - 1st Thursday in December

Held the first Thursday in December in picturesque and historic downtown New Braunfels since 1993, over 75 shops/restaurants/bakeries/non-profit groups compete for the best Wassail, a traditional hot spiced German cider, showcasing the small Texas town’s German heritage. Patrons walk the streets decked out in holiday decor, listen to school and community choirs sing Christmas carols, visiting each Wassail Stop, where they taste and vote on the best recipe. All gather at the plaza bandstand to learn the winners, listen to music and share in holiday revelry. 

Christmas Gruene Market Days 

Gruene Market Days are the perfect place to finish your Christmas shopping! Browse unique handmade and local jewelry, gifts, home decor, and more from 100+ vendors. Parking, admission, and live entertainment is free. Visit the Gruene Market Days website to learn more.

Old Town Christmas Market 

The Christmas Market will have gift baskets galore, filled with all kinds of goods, gift items, and many other treats. Find themed baskets, pre-made picnics, or even a cozy night in! You are sure to find the perfect present for everyone on your list. Event by New Braunfels Conservation Society.

Menorah Lighting

Each year, community members gather downtown in the Main Plaza to celebrate Hannukah by lighting a 6-foot menorah. The event features traditional Jewish bites like latkes and applesauce, singing Jewish songs, and kids' activities such as crafts and playing dreidel.

St. Nikolaus visits Sophienburg Museum

Learn about the legends and age-old German traditions honoring Nikolaus of Myra, the patron saint of children and sailors, who dedicated his life to serving God and helping others. St. Nikolaus visits the Sophienburg Museum on the eve of his saint day to see how the children are doing. Bring your children and grandchildren to see him.  

Gruene Pony Express Ride 

Don't miss the annual Gruene Pony Express Ride! A crew of relay riders will arrive on horseback in Gruene with a "Christmas Greetings" message from the Governor of Texas. The event is fun and free!

Gruene Town Lighting 

Cowboy Kringle rides into Gruene on his trusty horse to illuminate Gruene for the holidays! The event features live music and will have food and beer/wine available to purchase. 

Caroling in the Park

Celebrate a 40+ years tradition of CAROLING

Annual Jingle Bell Run

This 5K Run/Walk and Kid's K event benefits St. Jude's Ranch for Children. Sponsored by Comal ISD and held in Gruene Historic District. 

The Nutcracker - Dates Vary

Tchaikovsky’s beloved Christmas ballet, The Nutcracker, is a magical adventure for the whole family. Come and join us as we celebrate the holiday season, and the children & families of New Braunfels! Purchase tickets here. 

Hanukkah’s arrival