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A Magical Guide to a Fredericksburg Texas Christmas

written bySierra Schmidt Published Updated on

If you are looking for a charming Hill Country town to spend the holidays, look no further than experiencing a Fredericksburg, Texas Christmas! It is known for its beautiful scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. During the holiday season, Fredericksburg comes alive with festive lights, activities, and events that draw visitors from all over the state.

Fredericksburg’s German heritage is also on full display during the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy traditional German treats like gluhwein and gingerbread, as well as browse the town’s many shops for unique gifts and decorations. Don’t miss the holiday fun in the Marktplatz either!

Check out our favorite things to do, see, and eat in Fredericksburg for Christmas – one of the best Christmas towns in Texas.

We live just an hour or so from Fredericksburg and it is one of our favorite weekend getaway and day trip spots. While almost nothing can beat Hill Country in the spring, the Christmas season in Fredericksburg is just magical and gives springtime a run for its money!

Fredericksburg Texas in winter

Fredericksburg’s Christmas Traditions

Fredericksburg, Texas is known for its German heritage and during the Christmas season, the town absolutely comes alive with holiday cheer and traditions! From Main Street to Marktplatz, you can experience the magic of the season in this charming Hill Country town.

Main Street

Main Street is the heart of Fredericksburg and one of the top things to do in Hill Country year round. During the Christmas season, Main Street is decked out in holiday decorations and lights with such a merrry vibe.

We love to just stroll down the street and browse the shops, which offer everything from antiques to toys and trinkets. Many of the boutiques and tasting rooms also offer special holiday promotions and events. You’ll find more on those Texas Christmas events below.

Hill Country Cabin

Marktplatz

Marktplatz is the town square and is home to Fredericksburg’s Christmas Pyramid. What is a Christmas pyramid you ask?

The German Christmas Pyramid is a traditional German decoration dating back to the 16th century. The 26-foot-tall wooden structure is called a Weihnachtspyramide and is adorned with hand-carved wooden figurines that tell the story of the nativity scene. The pyramid is illuminated with over 1,000 lights and it spins! The Christmas pyramid was handcrafted in Germany and now proudly stands in the Marktplatz serving as a holiday centerpiece for Christmas in Fredericksburg.

You can fully enjoy Fredericksburg’s Christmas Nights of Lights, a 10-minute audio presentation that tells the story of the town’s German heritage and concludes with a countdown to the lighting of Marktplatz each evening throughout the season. Holiday music can be heard from 5pm-6:30pm and the audio and light presentation is at 6pm. This event is a must-do when celebrating a Fredericksburg TX Christmas!

Downtown Fredericksburg Christmas

Things to Do in Fredericksburg at Christmas

Fredericksburg, Texas is a magical place to be during the holiday season with plenty of things to do. Check out some of the best activities to include in your stay whether you are just there for the day or on a road trip from Fredericksburg to Austin.

Eisbahn Outdoor Ice Skating

One of the most popular activities in Fredericksburg, Texas at Christmas is ice skating. You can enjoy outdoor ice skating at Eisbahn, located in Marktplatz. Eisbahn is a German word for “ice rink,” and it has become a beloved tradition in Fredericksburg since it was first introduced in 2008.

Admission to the rink is affordable, and skate rentals are available on-site. Visitors can also purchase hot cocoa and other treats to enjoy while they skate.

Pioneer Farms Blacksmith Shop in Fredericksburg Texas

Shop at the Fredericksburg Holiday Market

If you are ready to shop until you drop, plan on heading the Holiday Market where vendors are lined in rows ready to share their goods. Cross gifts off your list with items made from local artisans in Fredericksburg and the surrounding area.

Take a Ride on the Jolly Trolley

Meet at the Fredericksburg Visitor’s Center and take a trolley ride to Johnson City to see their SPECTACULAR light show. Over one million lights adorn the trees in downtown Johnson City and they are quite the sight to behold! Enjoy holiday music and vintage Christmas movies along the way!

See a Live Show at Fredericksburg Theater Company

Seasonal shows take the stage at this local theater company throughout the month of December. Children will love the family friendly Elf Jr. production and get ready for some holiday magic at Plaid Tidings on the main stage.

Planning to Stay in Fredericksburg overnight? Check out our favorite hotels: 

Don’t Miss Holiday Events at a Fredericksburg TX Christmas

Deck the Halls at LBJ State Park Living History Museum

Located just minutes from Fredericksburg, head to Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm at Lyndon B. Johnson State Park for a merry time of candle making, popcorn stringing, cookie decorating, and wreath making. Admission is free.

Walk the nature paths, visit the longhorns, and discover all that the State Park has to offer during the Christmas season.

Light the Night Christmas Parade

Stake out a spot on Main Street, or reserve a seat in the bleachers, for the annual Light the Night Christmas Parade. This festive parade takes place in the heart of downtown Fredericksburg, and it features dozens of brightly lit floats, marching bands, and other holiday-themed attractions.

If you choose to sit along the street, choose a spot between Washington and Edison streets. Head to Peppermint Platz afterward to take a photo with Santa and do a children’s activity or two.

Christmas Night of Lights

The Christmas Nights of Lights was mentioned above, but is worth a reminder. It features a 26-foot Christmas tree and authentic German Christmas pyramid. You can enjoy holiday music and a lighting countdown almost every evening of the season – it is truly magical!

Christmas Wine Affair

  • November 13 – December 23, 2023
  • Location: Various Wineries
  • Admission: $65 per person/$100 per couple

The Christmas Wine Affair, during which participating vineyards offer excellent discounts, offers decked-out tasting rooms, and plenty of holiday cheer. Tickets sell out early, so don’t delay if you plan to check out the wineries in Fredericksburg this Christmas!

Kinderfest at the Pioneer Museum

The Pioneer Museum is one of our favorite spots in Fredericksburg! We have not had the opportunity to attend Kinderfest, but are sure that young children will love it. St. Nick will visit and fill their stockings with traditional Germain treats while they experience stories, songs, and crafts. It is such a sweet Fredericksburg Christmas tradition!

Fredericksburg, Texas stays true to its German roots during the Christmas season with plenty of fun events.

Santa Day Parade

Check out the second parade of the weekend to kick off Christmas in Fredericksburg with the man in red himself! Santa will ride through downtown on a Fire Engine to the gazebo at the courthouse where he will meet with children and hand out sweet goody bags.

Drive-thru Nativity

Bethany Lutheran Church hosts an interactive experience which celebrates the true meaning on Christmas. Drive through this nativity display with several scenes complete with live actors and live animals. It takes about 10 minutes to drive thru.

Fredericksburg Holiday Home Tour

  • December 9-10, 2023
  • Location: Tour throughout Fredericksburg
  • Admission: TBD

Visitors can also attend the Fredericksburg Holiday Home Tour, which showcases some of the town’s most beautiful homes decorated for the holidays. The tour is a great way to get into the holiday spirit and see some of the town’s historic architecture. The tour takes approximately two hours and requires advance tickets.

Tree Lighting at LBJ State Park

Come and be a part of a wonderful tradition at Lyndon B. Johnson State Park – it’s a tree lighting extravaganza that started more than 50 years ago thanks to President and Mrs. Johnson!

Get ready for a festive time with carolers, a magical live nativity scene, a visit from Santa Claus, and yummy snacks. The highlight of the evening is when we light up the tree and make the park glow with holiday magic!

As the sun sets, take a little journey back in time to the Sauer-Beckmann Farm. Picture this: lantern-lit pathways, a real Christmas Tree in the parlor, and toe-tapping live music. You’ll feel like you’ve time-traveled to a real Texas-German Christmas from long ago. And the homemade treats? They’re the cherry on top!

Second Christmas

In Fredericksburg, the second Christmas celebration is set to take place the day after Christmas. Organized by the Fredericksburg German Club, this event is known as Zweite Weihnachten.

Attendees can look forward to savoring classic baked Stollen, indulging in the comforting warmth of Gluhwein, and joining in Christmas carols.

More Adorable Christmas Towns near Fredericksburg

Ready to Plan your Christmas in Fredericksburg Getaway?

Get ready for a festive season like no other in Fredericksburg! From the heartwarming Zweite Weihnachten celebration to the enchanting tree lighting at Lyndon B. Johnson State Park, there’s an amazing number of ways to celebrate a Fredericksburg Christmas!

Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all from our Very Truly Texas family!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top Christmas events in Fredericksburg, TX?

Fredericksburg is known for its festive Christmas celebrations. One of the top events is Fredericksburg’s Christmas Nights of Lights, which takes place each evening at Marktplatz. Visitors can experience a 10-minute audio presentation featuring the story of the town’s German heritage, holiday carols, and concluding with a countdown to the lighting of Marktplatz. Another popular event is the Holiday Home Tour, which allows visitors to tour beautifully decorated homes and buildings in the area.

What are some fun things to do in Fredericksburg during Christmas?

There are plenty of fun things to do in Fredericksburg during Christmas. Visitors can take a stroll down Main Street to see the festive lights and decorations, visit the Lone Star Christmas tree in nearby Comfort, or attend the Fredericksburg Christmas Parade. They can also go shopping for unique gifts at the local stores, attend a Christmas concert, or take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the town.

What hotels in Fredericksburg, TX are best for Christmas stays?

There are many hotels in Fredericksburg that are perfect for Christmas stays. Some of the top options include the Inn on Barons Creek, Hoffman Haus, and the Fredericksburg Herb Farm. These hotels offer cozy accommodations, festive decorations, and special holiday packages.

What is the date of the Fredericksburg Christmas parade?

The date of the Fredericksburg Christmas Parade varies from year to year, but in 2023 it will be December 1, 2023. Visitors can check the Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce website for the most up-to-date information.

What time does the Fredericksburg Christmas tree lighting start?

The Fredericksburg Christmas tree lighting at Marktplatz usually starts at 6 p.m. each evening during the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy the 10-minute audio presentation and countdown to the lighting.

Is Fredericksburg, TX a good place to visit during Christmas?

Yes, Fredericksburg, TX is a great place to visit during Christmas. The town comes alive with festive lights, decorations, and events that will make visitors feel like they’ve stepped into a fairytale. From the Holiday Home Tour to the Christmas Nights of Lights, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, the town’s German heritage adds a unique touch to the holiday celebrations.

Sierra Schmidt is the founder of Very Truly Texas as well as the lead writer and photographer. She is a Texas local living near Austin in the beautiful Texas Hill Country and exploring every inch of this vast state.

She provides detailed itineraries, inspiring images, and hidden gems to encourage locals and visitors to discover their own next adventure in the great state of Texas!

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