Latest News

Just because it’s winter does not mean the New Braunfels area is slowing down for the season. Quite the opposite. There are tons of things planned for young and old, with some yearly events making a comeback. Be sure to click on the link for each event for more information and dates!

If you’re wondering what to do in New Braunfels for Christmas and throughout the holidays, read on!

Markets and Festivals

Festival of Trees – this is a family-friendly and FREE event held in Gruene that kicks off the holiday season. Stroll through paths of beautifully decorated trees and other Christmas décor. After the Mayor of New Braunfels officially lights up downtown with many thousands of twinkling lights, Santa becomes center stage, arriving to spread holiday cheer and taking photos with the kiddos.

Weihnachstsmarkt is a New Braunfels tradition that offers the charm of vintage open-air Christmas markets of Germany in an indoor event space. With more than 60 artisans and merchants selling everything from unique German collectibles to holiday ornaments and other decorations, clothing, gifts and more, this is an event not to be missed.

Wassailfest is held the first Thursday in December in historic and picturesque downtown New Braunfels. Over 75 restaurants, bakeries, and shops compete for who has the best Wassail – a traditional hot spiced German cider. Patrons are free to walk the streets decked out in their holiday best while listening to Christmas carols, visiting each Wassail stop, tasting, and voting on the best cider. Then all gather ‘round the plaza bandstand to learn the winners.

Gruene Market Days are THE place to finish your holiday shopping! More than 100 vendors will have unique and handmade items for sale. Admission, parking, and live entertainment are all FREE at this must-anticipated event. Visit the Gruene Market Days website to learn more.

The Christmas Market will have gift baskets filled with all sorts of gift items and many other treats. From themed baskets, to pre-made picnics, and more, you will definitely find the perfect present for everyone on your list. This event is held by the New Braunfels Conservation Society.

Christmas at the Caverns. The National Bridge Caverns will have carolers, a 30-foot Christmas tree, a stunning trail of lights, campfire s’mores, and even ice skating this Christmas season! Click here for hours, details, and tickets.

New Braunfels Farmers Market

 Every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm, 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.

Photos with Cowboy Kringle

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 Cowboy Kringle for details and to reserve your appointment.

Santa’s Ranch

 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. Held from November 4^th – January 1^st.

Caroling in the Park

New Braunfels is thrilled to be able to carry on our 42-year tradition of CAROLING! In the past, the event has been at the Main Plaza (“Caroling on the Plaza”), but for 2022 it moves to the Dance Slab at historic Landa Park. There will be kids’ activities, art pavilions, live music, dancers, Santa Claus, and holiday train rides! Bring a folding chair or a blanket, get the kids and grandparents together and come enjoy Holiday Favorites and the famous caroling sing-along.

Don’t forget to save your spot at Treeside RV Resort while you’re in town for all the holiday extravaganzas!