I’ve always wanted to visit the Christmas markets in Germany. Luckily, here in Texas, we have Fredericksburg TX! Book a trip this holiday season to the historic German town of Fredericksburg for all of its holiday things to do and Christmas activities in 2024.
A Fredericksburg Christmas is truly magical! You can also enjoy all of the things to do and its unique German heritage any time of year with our guide to Fredericksburg TX!
Experience MarktPlatz
Experience the magic of Christmas at Marktplatz, where the sights of a traditional German Christmas pyramid, a majestic 30-foot Christmas tree, an outdoor ice-skating rink, and Christmas Nights of Lights illuminate the square each evening at 6 PM throughout the holiday season. Every day, a heartwarming 10-minute audio presentation that celebrates our town’s rich German heritage through holiday carols culminates in the countdown to the lighting of Marktplatz.
November 26, 2024, to January 6, 2025.
Eisbahn Outdoor Ice Skating
Give back while still having fun this holiday season by skating on real ice at the Kinderhalle Pavilion at Main Street Fredericksburg. At Eisbahn Outdoor Ice Skating, experience Fredericksburg’s holiday tradition with funds going towards the Heritage School and Cystic Fibrosis.
The schedule varies by day, but the rink will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day and will close early on New Year’s Eve.
Tickets are $15 per day, including skate rental, but there is also a $10 ticket special on Tuesdays. All ages are welcome, and concessions will be for sale, including candy, sodas, pizza, and hot chocolate. Eisbahn will be open this year from November 23, 2024, to January 5, 2025.
Fredericksburg’s Christmas Nights of Lights (Free)
Kickstart the holiday season at Fredericksburg’s Christmas Nights of Lights. Starting November 26, 2024, at 5 PM with holiday music followed by an audio presentation and lighting countdown at 6 PM, lighting of the Christmas tree, holiday carols, and the story of Fredericksburg’s German heritage. Fredericksburg’s Christmas Nights of Lights will continue nightly through January 6, 2025, except December 6, 2024, for the annual Light the Night Christmas Parade and December 31, 2024, for the City of Fredericksburg’s New Year’s Eve: Countdown to 2025.
Fredericksburg’s 30-foot Community Christmas Tree, adorned with hand-crafted ornaments from Hill Country artisans, is the highlight of the holiday festivities at Marktplatz. It will be on display through early 2025. November 26, 2024, to January 6, 2025.
The Light the Night Christmas Parade (Free)
Head down to the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce on December 6, 2024, at 6:30 PM for Fredericksburg’s Christmas night parade. The parade will kick off at 6:30 PM, making its way from Washington Street to Edison Street. Be sure to bring folding chairs and cozy blankets. Indulge your taste buds by grabbing a delicious bite from local vendors while watching the parade unfold.
Don’t miss the chance to create unforgettable memories by snapping a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Peppermint Platz. For families with little ones, there’s a children’s activity area to keep them busy and entertained. December 6, 2024, at 6:30 PM.
Historic Home Tour & Holiday Market
The Historic Home Tour & Holiday Market at Pioneer Museum is a beloved Fredericksburg tradition, now in its 65th year. Visitors can tour 7 historic homes in Fredericksburg, all decorated in their holiday finest. Additionally, The Pioneer Memorial Library will warmly welcome visitors at 2:00 PM for an inspiring tour of this magnificent county-owned historic property. Each property invites exploration with self-guided tours, while knowledgeable docents in every home and the Pioneer Memorial Library are ready to share the stories behind their unique features.
In addition to the tour, the Pioneer Museum grounds will host a Holiday Market, located at the GCHS Sanctuary & Social Hall, featuring 20+ vendors selling unique gifts, food, and holiday items.
Ticket prices range from $12 – $40. Get your tickets here. A Preview Party will be held on November 22, 2024, from 6 PM to 8 PM with hors d’ouvres, champagne and entertainment. The main event of Home Tour & Holiday Market will occur on November 23, 2024. Home Tour: 11 AM to 5 PM, Holiday Market: 9 AM to 5 PM.
Deck the Halls (Free)
Help Sauer-Beckmann Farm get ready for Christmas at Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site! Holiday activities include stringing popcorn, cookie decorating, wreath making, and more! Celebrate Christmas the old-fashioned way with the farm on November 30, 2024, from 10 AM to 2 PM.
The 7th Christmas Bazaar (Free)
Enjoy a day of holiday fun at the Fredericksburg Christmas Bazaar. Shop local vendors, participate in arts and crafts, take advantage of a photo-op with Santa, and watch the Christmas tree lighting. December 7, 2024, from 11 AM to 5 PM.
A Ranger Christmas (Free)
Come see Santa Claus at the Texas Ranger Heritage Center! Enjoy crafts, cookies, hot chocolate, hot dogs, and more! Kids can even be sworn-in as an honorary Junior Texas Ranger! December 7, 2024.
Kinderfest (Free)
Celebrate Fredericksburg’s joyous tradition of Kinderfest at the Pioneer Museum. Children 10 and under are encouraged to bring a stocking to hang on the fireplace.
While the kids enjoy refreshments, goodies, and crafts, Santa and his elves will work to fill the stockings according to German tradition. Nuts, fruit, and candy for nice children, and a lump of coal for naughty children. Luckily, all the kids at Kinderfest are on the nice list! December 7, 2024, from 10 AM to 3 PM.
The Santa Day Parade (Free)
See the Santa’s Day Parade on the historic Main Street and visit Santa at the Gillespie County Courthouse Square where you can tell him what you want for Christmas this year. Don’t forget to grab a free holiday goodie bag from Santa! December 7, 2024, at 10 AM.
Holiday Shows & Performances
The Singing Christmas Tree
Attend the Fredericksburg Singing Christmas Tree event at the Pioneer Museum. Hear community choruses put on a family holiday concert. This one-hour Christmas concert features a 65-person choir and celebrates the German tradition “Der Singende Weihnachtsbaum.” Enjoy traditional music and German carols around a 30-foot decorated Christmas tree. Guests should bring their chairs and a cozy blanket. Gates open at the Milam Street entrance at 5:30 PM.
Admission is free, but donations are accepted. December 7, 2024, from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
The Nutcracker
This holiday season, The Nutcracker comes to life in Fredericksburg with a stunning full-length performance that has been a cherished tradition for generations. Audiences will be mesmerized by the beautifully designed sets, intricate costumes, and enchanting dances as beloved characters like the mischievous mice and the graceful Sugar Plum Fairy take center stage. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the magic of the holidays with the whole family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
For those with dreams of dancing in this classic holiday production, there’s a chance to be part of the magic! The Fredericksburg Ballet Centre offers aspiring dancers the opportunity to join in the performance, learning from talented instructors and taking part in the thrill of the stage. December 21 to 22,2024.
Candlelight Holiday Special featuring “The Nutcracker” & More
Get into the holiday spirit with the Candlelight Holiday Special, featuring The Nutcracker and more, at the Historic Sanctuary at St. David’s Episcopal Church in Austin. The Austin Camerata String Quartet will bring this classic Christmas tale to life, along with other beloved holiday favorites.
For those in Fredericksburg, it’s worth the short trip to Austin for this cozy and magical holiday experience!Ticket prices range from $29 – $58. Purchase your tickets here. There will be showings on December 19, 2024, at 6: 30 PM and 8:45 PM.
Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings
Celebrate the season with Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings, a magical concert at the Lois Perkins Chapel in Austin. The Listeso String Quartet will perform a beautiful selection of Christmas carols, including O Holy Night, 12 Days of Christmas, and Carol of the Bells, all set to a stunning candlelit backdrop.
If you’re in Fredericksburg and looking for a special holiday outing, consider making the short trip to Austin for this unforgettable evening. Tickets range from $35 to $58, and you can purchase them online. December 18, 2024, at 6:30 PM and 8:45 PM.
Go Shopping
The Ab Astris Winery Christmas Market
Enjoy food from Mystic Lobster Roll, live Christmas music by Reid Bros Music, cookie boxes from Cookies by Kendall, shopping, and more at Ab Astris Winery Christmas Market. Shop local vendors selling jewelry, vine art, glass artwork, metal artwork, and more! December 8, 2024, from 12 PM to 4 PM.
Visit the Christmas Store
Even if it’s not Christmas time, the Fredericksburg Christmas Store is open year-round to bring you holiday cheer, no matter what the season. This store has rooms upon rooms of Christmas décor, ornaments, little Christmas villages, and more!
Whether you’re looking for the perfect gift for a loved one or just want to add some Christmas spirit to your home, the Fredericksburg Christmas Store is sure to have something for you!
Sip & Shop on Main Street
Have fun while shopping for Christmas gifts for loved ones while walking down Fredericksburg Main Street. Gluhwein is a German mulled or spiced hot wine that I look forward to every holiday season.
The wine shops sell it during the winter, and you can actually carry it around the Main Square! There are so many cute boutiques and unique shops where you are bound to find art, clothing, and gifts for yourself—and others!
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The Christmas Journey (Free)
Step into a magical world in the heart of Fredericksburg with The Christmas Journey. A drive-thru Christmas light display presented by Bethany Lutheran Church, The Christmas Journey features scenes decorated with thousands of lights and life-size figures that tell the story of Christmas. Nearly 200 people don period costumes to create this enchanting drive-thru event, with over 100 more dedicated to setting up and dismantling the scenes. It’s a monumental labor of love that breathes life into the Christmas story.
This inspiring event remains free for all to enjoy, yet many have felt moved to give back over the years.Enter the back parking lot on N. Adams Street. There is also a walking path you can take as well. December 13 and December 14, 2024, from 6 PM to 8:30 PM.
The Tannenbaum Ball
Enjoy an elegant evening at the Tannenbaum Ball. Dine on delicious food, local wines, craft beers, spirits, and signature cocktails. Bid at silent and live auctions. The Tannenbaum Ball is a great way to celebrate the holiday season and to support a worthy cause.It’s a night of elegance, fun, and philanthropy, with funds going to the Gillespie County Historical Society and Pioneer Museum.
Tickets are $200 per person. December 13, 2024, from 6 PM to 11 PM.
The Annual LBJ Tree Lighting (Free)
Join the Texas Hill Country Community for the Annual LBJ Tree Lighting, a holiday tradition started over 55 years ago by President Lyndon B. Johnson and Mrs. Johnson. Enjoy carolers, a live nativity, Santa Claus, and, of course, the spectacular tree lighting at Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site.
Afterward, take a trip to the past by visiting Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm to experience what a German Christmas Eve was like one hundred years ago! The lantern-lit path, real Christmas Tree, and live music evoke an authentic Texas-German Christmas from the turn of the century, complemented by delicious homemade treats. December 15, 2024, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
Zweite Weihnachten (Free)
Come celebrate the German tradition, Zweite Weihnachten or Second Christmas. Festivities include German and English caroling, music, and fellowship. Try traditional German foods and drinks like Baked Stollen and warm Gluhwein. December 26, 2024, from 2 PM to 5 PM.
Make Seasonal Art
The Yellow Door Studio will host several Art & Vino workshops and Winter Break Mini Camps for the kiddos throughout the holiday season.
Art & Vino workshop tickets are just $45 and include all necessary supplies. You’re also invited to bring your favorite alcoholic beverage. Winter Break Mini Camps will occur between November 16, 2024, and December 28, 2024.
Don’t Forget the Wine!
A Christmas Wine Affair
Fredericksburg is known for its wineries in the same way that Germany is known for its Riesling. Your signature passport ticket benefits include a complimentary wine tasting and a 15% discount on purchases of 3 or more bottles at each of the 50+ participating wineries. Immerse yourself in the experience and savor the award-winning wines that the Texas Hill Country has to offer. Whether you join us for one unforgettable day or all twenty-five, this self-guided tour promises to inspire and delight.
Individual pass is priced at $65, while couple pass is $100. November 25 to December 20, 2024.
Holiday Treat Pairing
Experience a festive Holiday Treat Pairing in the Board Room of Texas Wine Collective, where their finest wines await you. Delight in seasonal food and snack items, all while learning pairing art from your knowledgeable host. Enjoy the uplifting live music by Tyler Cannon from 1 PM to 5 PM. Choose from four exclusive sessions at 11:00 am, 1:00 pm, 2:30 pm, and 4:00 pm, with only 10 seats available per session. Reservations are essential for this unforgettable event and are available online for just $45.00 per person! December 14, 2024.
Go on a Holiday Wine Tour
Fredericksburg is already fun for wine tastings, but during the holiday season, it gets even better! There are Christmas carolers, Christmas lights, and all kinds of special holiday-themed activities.
Plus, there are often deals that allow you to visit multiple wineries at a major discount! Last year, you could visit 17 wineries for $45 per person. Since most tastings are $10–$20, this is an incredible deal! Check out our Ultimate Guide to Wineries in Fredericksburg TX.
Holiday Prelude at Swallows Eve
Get ready to dive into the holiday spirit with Fredericksburg’s charming “Holiday Prelude at Swallows Eve”! With a drink in hand, mingle with friends while enjoying the laughter and clinking of glasses. Add some soft music in the background, and you’ve got the perfect setting to kick off your holiday celebrations in style.
Main event tickets are $95 per person when purchased online in advance. VIP pre-event reception tickets are $150 per person. November 12, 2024, from 5 PM to 8 PM.
Other Christmas Things to Do and Places To Visit in Texas
Beyond Fredericksburg, Texas, Christmas is bigger and brighter in the United States with almost endless special events, millions of twinkling light displays, a touch of local cuisine, and good old-fashioned Texas charm. The South Pole Illuminated Festival in McAllen is a magical event showcasing the holiday season’s spirit with over 1.5 million twinkling lights, captivating both locals and visitors. If you are in Corpus Christi this Christmas, the Corpus Christi Ballet’s annual “The Nutcracker” performance is a must-see, capturing the Christmas spirit with dancing toys, mischievous mice, and lovely fairies.
For a detailed overview of what to expect from a Texan Christmas, here’s our ultimate guide to Christmas Things To Do and Places To Visit in Texas this Year.
Read More: Christmas Things To Do and Places To Visit in Texas
Christmas in Fredericksburg TX: FAQs
Is December a good time to visit Fredericksburg, TX?
Yes, December is a fantastic time to visit Fredericksburg, TX. The town transforms into a festive wonderland, complete with charming Christmas lights, holiday decorations, and a variety of seasonal events. Visitors can enjoy the Christmas Wine Affair, a delightful tour of local wineries, and the annual Light the Night Christmas Parade, which fills the streets with holiday cheer.
The cooler weather makes it an ideal time to explore the town’s historic sites, shop for unique gifts in the quaint boutiques, and savor the local cuisine. Additionally, the beautiful Hill Country scenery is perfect for a peaceful winter getaway.
What is special about Fredericksburg, TX?
Fredericksburg, TX, is special for its rich German heritage, picturesque Texas Hill Country scenery, and vibrant wine country. Visitors enjoy historic sites like the National Museum of the Pacific War, unique Main Street shopping, and Enchanted Rock outdoor activities. The town hosts year-round festivals, especially during the holiday season, and offers delicious German cuisine, which makes it a culturally rich destination.
What time is the Christmas parade in Fredericksburg, Texas?
The Christmas parade in Fredericksburg, Texas, typically starts at 6:30 PM on December 6, 2024, at the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce.
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Christmas in Fredericksburg TX: Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fun Christmas destination with lots of holiday things to do in 2024, Fredericksburg is a must-visit!
I love it for its international feel, the holiday spirit, and of course, the wine! Even if you don’t go during Christmas, you will be in for a good time anytime of the year!
Don’t forget to check out all of the other fun things to do in Fredericksburg!
Check out our other holiday content listed below:
Last Updated 3 weeks ago by Jessica Serna | Published: November 14, 2023
