The holiday season is quickly approaching and will be here before you know it. This year, make your Christmas festivities even more memorable by planning a visit to Fredericksburg, Texas.
This Texas Hill Country town located close to Austin and San Antonio is known for breathtaking scenery and world-class wineries. From carols to Santa Claus visits, there are countless ways to get into the holiday spirit. After settling into your Fredericksburg rental from Cozi Vacation Rentals, you’ll be ready to explore all there is to do and see throughout town.
Winter in Fredericksburg is a wonderful time! It’s so fun and festive that it’s often been compared to a holiday Hallmark movie. No matter when you’re visiting, there is something to check out this Christmas and all the way into the new year.
These are the best special events in Fredericksburg this Christmas that you and your family won’t want to miss out on.
German Christmas Pyramid
November to early January each year
Kick off the season with the lighting of the German Christmas Pyramid. Known as a Weihnachtspyramide, the 26-foot-tall carousel-like structure was specifically made for the town in Germany in 2009 and was the first of its kind in the USA.
A staple in German holiday decorating since the 16th century, it is an art form that is believed by some to have evolved into the Christmas trees that we know and love today. Its origins are in the silver ore mining region of East Germany — when mines began to close, wooden toy manufacturing became the new source of income.
Christmas pyramids are mostly used for decorative purposes today, and many households own tabletop versions. Purchase one for yourself and experience holiday cheer as lighted candles move the windmill around.
The Great Pyramid of Fredericksburg has several levels that depict various Christmas motifs. It is lit annually in November and stays illuminated for the entire holiday season through the first week of January.
Christmas Nights of Lights
November to early January each year
Head to Marketplatz between the end of November and the beginning of January to take in one of our community’s favorite Christmas traditions. During Fredericksburg’s Christmas Nights of Lights, you’ll experience a 10-minute audio presentation that tells the story of the town’s German heritage. This nightly celebration includes holiday music from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
The official countdown to the lighting of Marktplatz happens November 26th, 2024 but if you miss that, don’t worry! Fredericksburg’s Christmas Nights of Lights continues all the way through to January 6th, 2025. There is a nightly lighting of the community Christmas tree during that period and many members of the small-town community gather their whole family to take in the festive atmosphere.
Christmas Wine Affair
Daily from end of November to mid-December
For a guaranteed dose of festive cheer, don’t miss the Christmas wine affair. Presented by various participating Texas Hill Country wineries, this annual event runs daily during November and December. Guests can enjoy a self-guided tour with wine tastings, plus exclusive discounts at more than 40 wineries.
This popular event sells out weeks in advance, so don’t miss your chance to grab a ticket. The cost is $65 per person or $100 per couple.
Light the Night Christmas Parade
Friday, December 6, 2024
On the first Friday of December, an illuminated parade snakes its way down Main Street between the intersections of Washington and Bowie Street. More than 120 entries take part to make this a memorable spectacle.
Seating along the parade route is on a first come first served basis and is free, so head down early to guarantee your spot. You can also bring your own lawn chair and pick your vantage point for what promises to be a magical night.
Eisbahn Outdoor Ice Skating
November to early January each year
Strap on your skates and get ready to tackle the rink at Marktplatz. Since 2008, this has been one of the area’s leading holiday events and is a huge hit with locals and visitors of all ages. A portion of the proceeds are donated to two local charities, making it an event that continues spreading cheer long after the holiday season has ended.
LBJ Tree Lighting
Sunday, December 15, 2024
Head down to Lyndon B. Johnson State Park for a special tradition started by President Johnson and his wife over 50 years ago. Expect to see carolers, Santa Claus, a live nativity, and the main event — the Christmas tree lighting. Refreshments are available at this free event, making it a must-attend spectacle if you’re in Fredericksburg in December.
While you are there, be sure to journey back in time to experience the historic site of Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm. Live music, lantern-lit pathways, and a stunning Christmas tree in the parlor transport visitors back to Texan-German Christmases of years gone by.
Holiday Shopping
If you’re looking for that last-minute Christmas gift or would like to treat yourself to something special, Fredericksburg Texas has you covered. There are more than 150 locally-owned stores, boutiques, and galleries along Main Street offering everything from fashion and handcrafted accessories to home decor and artwork.
There’s also a wonderful Christmas market held each year where trinkets and souvenirs of all kinds can be picked up.
Start Planning Your Festive Fredericksburg Getaway
There’s no better time to plan your vacation to Fredericksburg, Texas, this Christmas season (or Weihnachtszeit in German) than today. Enjoy a truly memorable and special experience with the ones you love most. Just because you’re traveling over the holidays doesn’t mean you have to miss out on your own holiday traditions.
Staying at a Fredericksburg rental from Cozi Vacation Rentals means you have all the comforts and space of home. This means you have plenty of room to enjoy a holiday movie marathon or decorate cookies.
