Holiday Festivals & Markets

Festival of Trees

The 7th Annual Festival of Trees is a free, family-friendly event in Gruene. Kick off the Christmas season 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!

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.

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.  

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

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.

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.

Holiday Events

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.

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.

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.

29TH Annual Christmas Tour of Homes 

Enjoy a festive tour of private homes in New Braunfels' communities of Vintage Oaks and Copper Ridge. Tickets here!

Santa's Ranch - Various Dates in November & December 

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.

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. 

Bah Humbug - December 3rd

It’s Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol with an amazing twist—one actor plays all the roles in this powerful tale of hope and compassion. Award-winning stage actor Damian Gillen transforms before your eyes into all those beloved characters. Event details here.

Caroling in the Park - December 8th 

Celebrate a 40+ years tradition of CAROLING! 

30th Annual Jingle Bell Run - December 10th 

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 - December 15th - 17th

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