CHRISTMAS IN FREDERICKSBURG, TEXAS: EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC

Fredericksburg, Texas is known for it’s charming and festive spirit. Whether you’re strolling through the decorated streets or taking in the historic German traditions, spending Christmas in this hill country small town offers a memorable and heartwarming experience that captures the essence of the holiday season in a uniquely Texan way.

Fredericksburg’s Christmas Nights of Lights

Mid November thru January 7th @6pm, check website for updates
Experience the magic of a brief illumination ceremony that beautifully unfolds the narrative of the town’s German legacy. Immerse yourself in the joyous sounds of festive caroling that fills the air. Join in the countdown leading to the spectacular lighting of Marktplatz, igniting the night with a brilliant display. Meanwhile, children can play and frolic, surrounded by enchanting Christmas displays that add a touch of wonder to this joyous celebration.

Weihnachtspyramide: The German Christmas Pyramid

Standing proudly in the Marketplatz each holiday season is a 26-foot traditional wooden structure adorned with spinning tiers and festive decorations. This captivating display serves as a lasting tribute to Fredericksburg’s rich German heritage, encapsulating the spirit of the season with its enchanting presence. It becomes a focal point, inviting both locals and visitors alike to marvel at the cultural and festive significance it brings to the heart of the town during the holidays.

Light the Night Christmas Parade

First Friday in December @ 6:30pm (December 6th, 2024) | Fun and festive, this night parade has over 150 entries and decorated floats running along historic Main Street. The streets are bedecked with twinkling lights and decorations along the parade route.

Bring folding chairs, cozy blankets and stake out your spot along Main Street. Most of the shops, tasting rooms, and eateries stay open late. You can grab hot cider, hot cocoa, snacks, and get tumblers of wine to-go from wineries to enjoy during the parade. (public consumption is legal) After the parade, head over to the Peppermint Platz for FREE pictures and hot cocoa with Santa & Mrs. Claus.

You can catch live coverage of the parade on CBS Austin, or tune in to the station’s website and FBG.Live for a livestream of the entire event.

EISBAHN OUTDOOR ICE SKATING

Mid-November thru January 3 | www.eisbahntx.com | Kinder Halle Pavilion | Glide into the holiday with the exhilarating experience of skating on real ice! An annual tradition that promises festive fun for the whole family that captures the essence of the season. $15 per day come-and-go pass includes skate rental. $10 Tuesdays.

Singing Christmas Tree

First weekend in December 6:30pm-7:30pm | @pioneermuseumfbg | Immerse yourself in an enchanting concert featuring a towering 30-foot Christmas tree adorned with festive decorations and live choir! Celestial harmonies fill the air with the timeless melodies of traditional Christmas carols and hymns. This unique event not only dazzles with visual splendor but also captures the essence of joy and community spirit, creating a memorable celebration. Join us for an evening of enchantment beneath the shimmering branches of this magnificent Christmas tree.

Annual LBJ Tree Lighting

Mid December 17th | The Tree lighting is a cherished tradition that originated with President Lyndon B. Johnson & his wife. Step back in time, to a simpler time, and experience holiday carolers, German cookies, a live nativity scene, music, a visit from Santa Claus, a lantern lit path and the dazzling tree lighting. No reservations are required, it is a free event.

Christmas Shopping on Main Street

Experience the enchantment as Historic Main Street transforms into a festive wonderland, adorned with lights & decorations. Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas as you explore the many stores, offering special holiday-themed items that add to the seasonal charm. On weekends, the magic lingers longer, with shops, wineries, and eateries extending their hours. Shops embrace the warmth of the season, and offer small bites with a cup of Glühwein, a German spiced mulled wine, adding a touch of tradition to your holiday shopping and creating a delightful atmosphere of merriment and cheer.

Holiday Wine Tasting

During the holidays many wineries & vineyards feature special wine releases, discounted wine packages & cases, holiday food pairings or gourmet treats that complement the wine. Many celebrate with themed Christmas events, and there are also holiday wine tours available.

Fredericksburg Tours | @fredericksburg_tx_tours | Holiday Jolley Trolley Tour | board their decorated, vintage-style trolley to view the @lightsspectacularjctx light display in Johnson City, Tx. Enjoy holiday music or watch family friendly Christmas movies along the way. It’s fun for the whole family. Offered November thru December.

Holiday Evening Food & Wine Tour | decorated trolleys tour you to the surrounding vineyards and wineries for holiday wine & food tastings, including a guided tour of downtown Fredericksburg. Offered November thru January.

Fiesta Winery

@fiestawinery | Savor Christmas cheer during the holiday season at Fiesta Winery. The tasting room is festively decorated as you enjoy wine tastings. “Christmas Cheer” is a classic rich, semi-sweet mulled wine with cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and orange notes. Great served warmed in a heat-proof glass with dried fruits, nuts, spiced bread or cookies. “Sweet Bailey Ray” is a sweet, full-bodied dessert wine with intense flavors of chocolate and orange. And receive a Christmas discount when buying bottles by the case!

Becker Vineyards

@beckervineyards | Step into the festive spirit at Becker Vineyards & Becker Wines On Main. Savor their award-winning wines, and shop holiday wine bottle boxes, gift baskets, home-grown lavender products, essential oils, soaps, lotions and more. Discover the perfect gifts with a touch of vineyard elegance. Cheers to a season of giving and indulging in the finest!

Cross Mountain Vineyards

@crossmounta invineyards | This lively winery is where every experience is infused with fun. Delight your taste buds with an Italian wine tasting paired with delectable charcuterie featuring small batch, crafted wine from the finest Italian vineyards. Shop a delightful array of Christmas goodies, perfect for gifting or treating yourself—special wine gift sets, fine wine glassware, wine decanters, premium Italian Olive Oils, and stocking stuffers. And you can secure a front-row seat at the Fredericksburg Christmas Parade at Cross Mountain tasting room. Enjoy a guided Italian Wine Tasting, then grab a glass of wine to-go and settle in outside it’s doors to enjoy the parade.

Tree lighting, Holiday Treats and Wine Pairing

@txwinecollectivefbg | Experience a special holiday treats and wine pairing. Held in the boardroom, decked out in holiday decor, learn more about wines while sampling delicious seasonal food and snack items. Your host will guide your through the process, making it memorable and fun. Four Sessions 11am, 1pm, 2:30pm, and 4pm (only 10 seats per sessions) Reservations are must, $45 per person. Held during the beginning of December.

Inaugural Christmas Tree Lighting | @txwinecollectivefbg | a night featuring Christmas carolers, a visit from Santa Claus, and the lighting of the Christmas Tree at the Texas Wine Collective. Your ticket grants you access to a glass of wine and a selection of charcuterie snacks infused with holiday flair. Admission for children aged 12 and under is complimentary. Secure your spot for $25 per person and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.

Pioneer Museum Christmas Home Tour & Christmas Market

@pioneermuseumfbg | This self-guided tour showcases historic Fredericksburg homes decorated for the holidays. Participants will receive a booklet with a tour map and information about each featured home. There is a special pre-party the night before the Christmas Market, where you can first look at merchandise, shopping, champagne and appetizers. The Market hosts 25 boutique vendors offering distinctive gifts, delectable food, and seasonal items. Tickets can be purchased online.

SANTA FLY-IN AT GILLESPIE COUNTY AIRPORT

December 16 1-4pm | Gillespie County Airport 75 Airport Road, Fredericksburg, TX | 830.990.5764 | presented by Crosswind Aviation Tours, Santa arrives in a gleaming aircraft flying through the sky with an air of holiday magic, landing in Gillespie airport. Enjoy pictures with Santa, and caroling with the complimentary cookies and hot cocoa. Please bring a non-perishable food item to support the Fredericksburg Food Pantry.

Visit With Santa & Mrs. Claus

December 13 and 20 | @westendpizza | Santa & Mrs. Claus make a special trip down from North Pole. Have your picture taken with Santa & Mrs. Claus with kids of all ages and pets are welcome. Bring your camera for free photos. 5-6:30pm. Free event.

Zweite Weihnachten – Second Christmas

Day After Christmas Gillespie County Historical Society 1855 First Methodist Church W San Antonio US-290, Fredericksburg, TX | @pioneermuseumfbg | presented by the FBG German Club, immerse yourself in an experience that blends festive cheer with the rich cultural heritage of Germany. Enjoy a delightful fusion of delectable cuisine, refreshing drinks, live music, and the warm camaraderie of friends. Savor authentic Stollen and comforting Gluhwein (mulled wine), all accompanied by the harmonious singing of carols in both German and English. The event is free with a daily admission pass.

Eateries Open on Christmas Eve & Christmas Day

Christmas Eve | The Club at Barons CreekSide | Barons CreekSide, 316 Goehmann Ln, Fredericksburg, TX | @theclub_at_bcs | eclectic winebar & bistro with fine cuisine and live music. Located at Barons CreekSide in the vineyard, only a few minutes from downtown Fredericksburg. With a It has both indoor and outdoor seating, complete with heaters and blankets. An amazing spot to enjoy dinner and watch a spectacular Hill Country sunset. Dinner is served from 5-8pm. Reservations are required.

Christmas Eve | Hill Top Cafe | 10661 N. Hwy 87, Cherry Spring, TX | @hilltopcafetx | enjoy a special holiday gospel brunch from 11am-2pm with live music starting at noon. $10 cover charge per person for music room. Located only 15 minutes from Fredericksburg, please call ahead to reserve your table 830.997.8922.

Christmas Eve & Christmas Day | Western Edge Cellars | 228 West Main, Fredericksburg, TX | @westernedgecellars | top notch cuisine in a casual atmosphere. Serving grilled burgers, bacon-wrapped quail, gourmet flatbread pizzas, steaks, lobster mac & cheese, and chicken fried steak with a full bar, fine wine and beer as well. Live music and dancing on the patio. Call for reservations: (830) 992-3157 Open 12/24 11am-3pm, 12/25 11am -9pm.