The holiday season lights up New Braunfels like no other time of the year. Historic streets sparkle with twinkling lights, local shops are filled with festive cheer, and small-town charm shines around every corner. The holidays in New Braunfels offer a warm, family-friendly escape. Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to soak it all in, now is the perfect time to Visit New Braunfels, one of the most charming Texas vacation spots, and make memories that last a lifetime.
Start the holiday season right
The holiday season officially begins with the Downtown Lighting on November 21st, when Santa arrives, the countdown begins, and the town sparkles with thousands of twinkling lights. Over in Gruene, the festivities continue as Cowboy Kringle arrives on December 6th for the annual Gruene Town Lighting. That same morning, the Gruene Pony Express Ride trots into town, giving kids the chance to stamp and send their Christmas cards straight from Gruene. It’s the perfect way to kick off December and experience the small-town holiday spirit that makes New Braunfels so special.
Glide into the Gruene ice rink
One of the most fun ways to get into the holiday spirit is at the Gruene Ice Rink, which opens for the season on November 15th and is located in the heart of the Gruene Historic District. Even when the weather doesn’t feel like a winter wonderland, the rink’s shining lights and joyful atmosphere make it the perfect winter activity. Families and friends can skate, laugh, and enjoy hot cocoa. With historic buildings and local shops all around, this is the holidays in New Braunfels done right!
Celebrate Christmas the German way
There’s something special about starting the holiday season with a touch of Old World charm, exactly what you’ll find at Weihnachtsmarkt, returning November 21st, to celebrate New Braunfels’ German heritage. Visitors can wander through rows of twinkling lights and festively decorated booths for handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and traditional German treats. Weihnachtsmarkt is the perfect way to kick off the season, shop for unique gifts, and immerse yourself in the rich German traditions that make the holidays in New Braunfels so memorable. The market runs throughout the weekend, so you can sip on something warm, browse the booths, and fully embrace the festive spirit!
Celebrate like a local
Another beloved New Braunfels tradition is Wassailfest, a cozy community celebration held on December 4th. The streets come alive with music, local choirs sing carols, and the smell of warm wassail fills the air. It’s a reminder that part of what makes the holiday season special in New Braunfels is its friendly, small-town vibe, a place where locals and visitors alike can pause, enjoy the moment, and get in the holiday spirit.
One-of-a-kind holiday adventures
Just a short drive from New Braunfels, Christmas at the Caverns at Natural Bridge Caverns offers a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that combines natural beauty with festive cheer. From December 6th to December 23rd, visitors can enjoy several activities, including the Trail of Lights, an ice-skating rink, s’mores roasting, and visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus. One of the highlights is Caroling in the Cavern, where local performers fill the Discovery Cavern with holiday music. The event also features the Reindeer Round-Up, a 5,000-square-foot outdoor maze where children can search for Santa's missing reindeer. With its combination of underground wonder and above-ground festivities, Christmas at the Caverns truly offers a holiday escape.
Travel back to the Renaissance
Step back in time and immerse yourself in a festive medieval world at the New Braunfels Renaissance Faire, held on December 5th–7th and 12th–14th, at Heritage Village. Visitors can enjoy jousting tournaments, archery demonstrations, and live performances by wandering minstrels and bards. Shoppers can browse the open-air market for handcrafted gifts, and families can meet festive characters, including Santa and his elves. This whimsical event blends Renaissance charm with classic holiday cheer.
Have A Small-Town Holiday Getaway
If you’re ready for a holiday getaway, there’s no better place than New Braunfels. With twinkling lights, festive events across the city, and an overall warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to slow down and celebrate the season. Staying in New Braunfels gives you the chance to truly soak up the small-town charm, from holiday markets to music, dancing, and unique seasonal experiences. Whether you’re making memories with family, friends, or exploring on your own, New Braunfels shines as one of the most charming and underrated Texas vacation spots.