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Located just an hour away from San Antonio, Fredericksburg is the perfect spot to celebrate Weihnachtszeit, the Christmas season.
Christmas Nights of Lights
One of the highlights of the holidays is Fredericksburg’s Christmas Nights of Lights, a nightly lighting ceremony featuring carols, history and a grand finale countdown as the town’s square, Marktplatz, is transformed into a holiday wonderland. The program begins with music at 5 p.m., followed by the audio program at 6 p.m. Note that that program will not play on Dec. 1 or Dec. 31 but the lights will still turn on.
Enjoy the beauty of Fredericksburg’s 26-foot authentic German Christmas Pyramid and its 30-foot Community Christmas tree, which serve as the centerpieces to Main Street.
Fun for all ages
The holidays mean time together with family, and Fredericksburg has plenty of things to do for everyone’s enjoyment.
Take the family to skate a few laps at Fredericksburg’s outdoor ice rink, Eisbahn. The rink is located at Marktplatz in the Kinderhalle Pavilion. Come and go passes are just $15, which includes skate rentals.
See Fredericksburg light up during the Light the Night Christmas Parade. Held on the first Friday in December, see a variety of lighted floats and a special appearance from St. Nicholas.
Take part in a piece of Fredericksburg’s German history and heritage at Kinderfest. Children under age 10 can enjoy carols, crafts, stories and pictures with Santa. Or head to the second home of the nation’s 36th president, Lyndon B. Johnson, and experience a tree lighting, a tradition that dates back more than 50 years.
With the Hill Country being home to more than 60 wineries and tasting rooms, many of the wineries in Texas Wine Country will be offering special releases or holding special dinners and pairings. Many are also family-friendly.
Cross off your shopping list and shop Fredericksburg’s Historic Main Street. With over 150 shops, boutiques, art galleries and more, you are sure to find something special for everyone.
Unique places to stay
Known as the unofficial unique lodging capital of Texas, and with so much to see and do, you will want to extend your stay. Fredericksburg has more than 1,500 vacation rentals, cabins and bed and breakfasts that will provide the perfect home base for any holiday celebration. Enjoy holiday meals, exchange gifts, relax by the fire and get away from the hectic holiday rush. Discover properties that can accommodate large family gatherings, or filter by amenities likes indoor fireplaces, pet-friendly properties and location.
If a hotel or motel is more your style, Fredericksburg has that, too. Stay at locally owned boutique inns or nationally recognized chains.
Plan ahead
Because the holiday season can be busy, it is important to plan by booking your lodging, restaurant and attraction choices in advance of arrival. Visiting Fredericksburg Sunday through Thursday provides several benefits, including the best price on the town’s wide variety of places to stay, a personalized experience at area wineries, more space and time to browse shops, museums and art galleries, plus less wait time at local restaurants.
To plan a holiday trip to the Texas Hill Country or to make plans for a trip to the area in 2024, go to VisitFredericksburgTX.com.
