🛒 Costco Opening Date, Gruene Easter Egg Hunt, & More

April 03, 2026

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Good morning, New Braunfels! The weekend is here, and there’s a lot to be excited about, from a major new opening that’s been years in the making to a fun, family-friendly Easter event right in the heart of Gruene. Plus we’ll cover some big headlines around town you might’ve missed.

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GET READY FOR COSTCO’S GRAND OPENING

A major retail addition that’s set to change the local shopping scene

After months of construction and nonstop buzz, the new Costco in New Braunfels officially has an opening date set for May 15. Located along I-35 near Kohlenberg Road, the nearly 158,000-square-foot warehouse is in its final stages, with crews wrapping up both interior and exterior details as the launch approaches.

The store will feature 32 gas pumps and serve as a major anchor for the growing Mayfair development, quickly turning the area into a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Once open, it’s expected to draw shoppers from across the Hill Country looking for bulk deals, convenience, and discounted fuel all in one stop.

A classic spring tradition with family fun, photos, and plenty of eggs

Kick off the Easter weekend with the 3rd Annual Gruene Easter Egg Hunt happening this morning from 9:30–11:30 AM at Gruene Hall. This free, family-friendly event brings together everything you’d expect—an egg hunt, face painting, photo ops, and a visit from the Easter Bunny in the heart of the historic district.

Check-in begins at 9:30 AM in the Gruene Hall beer garden, and registration is required to participate. It’s an easy, festive way to get the kids out, enjoy the morning, and take part in one of the area’s favorite seasonal traditions.

Hard water in New Braunfels isn’t just annoying, it can quietly wreck your appliances. Mineral buildup can clog and wear down dishwashers, water heaters, and washing machines, making them work harder and fail way sooner than they should.

Aqua-Man Water Conditioning specializes in custom systems built specifically for Hill Country water, helping protect your home, extend the life of your appliances, and save you from expensive repairs down the line. It’s one of those upgrades you don’t think about…until you really wish you had it.

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SNEAK PEEK AT THIS WEEKEND👀

Here’s What’s Going On Around Town

FRIDAY
🐰 Gruene Easter Egg Hunt (9:30 AM)
🎉 20th Birthday Celebration at McKenna Children's Museum (10:00 AM)
🐣 Easter Bunny at 2tarts Bakery (11:00 AM)
🧘 Yoga at The Sophienburg Museum (12:00 PM)
🎨 Easter Blossom Bunnies at Painting with a Twist (3:00 PM)
🍻 Friday Afternoon Club at Gruene Hall (4:00 PM)
🛍️ Spring Market of New Braunfels at New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center (4:00 PM)
🎤 Bret Graham at The Grapevine in Gruene (5:00 PM)
🐟 Fish Fry at VFW Post 7110 (5:00 PM)
🎉 First Friday in Downtown New Braunfels (5:00 PM)
🎶 Tausha Jackson at Krause's Cafe (6:00 PM)
🌅 Sunset at the Lake at Painting with a Twist (7:00 PM)
🎸 Kin Faux at Freiheit Country Store (7:00 PM)
🎶 Good Friday Gospel Revue at The Redbird Listening Room (7:30 PM)
🎸 ERNEST: Live From The South Tour at Gruene Hall (8:00 PM)
🔥 Plan B at Happy Cow Bar (8:30 PM)
🚂 Fast Movin' Train at Watering Hole Saloon (8:30 PM)

SATURDAY
🛠️ Stihl One Day Tent Sale at New Braunfels Feed & Supply (7:30 AM)
🛍️ Spring Market of New Braunfels at New Braunfels Civic/Convention Center (9:00 AM)
🥕 New Braunfels Farmers Market (9:00 AM)
🥚 Easter Egg Hunt at VFW Post 7110 (10:00 AM)
🐣 Easter Egg Hunt at Fischer Park (11:00 AM)
🛒 Hop & Shop Easter Market at Freiheit Country Store (11:00 AM)
🍷 Saturday at the Vineyard at Dry Comal Creek Vineyards (12:00 PM)
🎨 Family Time – Choose Your Splatter Buddy at Painting with a Twist (1:00 PM)
🎸 Jake Penrod at Gruene Hall (1:00 PM)
🐉 Dungeons and Dragons – Campaign Session at New Braunfels Public Library (2:30 PM)
🐰 Funny Bunny at Painting with a Twist (3:30 PM)
🎶 Andrew Kreitz at The Grapevine in Gruene (5:00 PM)
🌙 Fire Away Chris Stapleton Tribute at Freiheit Country Store (7:00 PM)
💑 Date Night — A View for Two (Choose Your Colors) at Painting with a Twist (7:00 PM)
🎵 Beat Root Revival at The Redbird Listening Room (7:30 PM)
🎻 Leftover Salmon at Gruene Hall (9:00 PM)
🤠 Whiskey 2 Step at Watering Hole Saloon (9:00 PM)

SUNDAY
⛪ Easter Services at Multiple Churches (Several Times)
🎶 Dawn & Hawkes at Gruene Hall (11:30 AM)
🍷 Sunday at the Vineyard at Dry Comal Creek Vineyards (12:00 PM)
🍦 Family Time — Ice Cream Dreams at Painting with a Twist (1:00 PM)
🎵 Hannah Swann at The Grapevine in Gruene (1:00 PM)
💐 Bright Bouquet at Painting with a Twist (2:00 PM)
🎶 Sunday Afternoon Live w/ Jacob Augustine at The Phoenix Saloon (2:00 PM)
🎷 Eric Demmer at Gruene Hall (3:00 PM)
🌌 Moonlit Lake at Painting with a Twist (4:00 PM)
🎤 David Fox at Cowboys & Cadillacs (6:00 PM)
🎸 Bonnie Stewart at Gruene Hall (6:30 PM)

Looking for something easy, creative, and actually fun to do with the family this Easter weekend? Painting with a Twist has a full lineup of family-friendly events that are perfect for kids, parents, and anyone who just wants to do something different.

No experience needed, just show up, have fun, and leave with something you actually made. It’s one of those activities that keeps everyone entertained without the stress of planning.

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If you’ve ever wondered what true Hill Country luxury looks like, this is it. Sitting on over 30 acres behind a private gated entrance, this custom-built estate at 260 Bear Creek Trail delivers a level of space, privacy, and lifestyle that’s hard to find. With 4 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, and over 5,400 square feet, the home is designed for both everyday comfort and high-end entertaining.

Inside, you’ll find soaring ceilings, a chef’s kitchen with professional-grade appliances, a full game room with bar, and multiple living spaces that flow seamlessly together. Each bedroom has its own ensuite bath, while upstairs features a private office with a built-in safe and a dedicated workout space. Every detail is built for convenience, function, and a little bit of flex.

Step outside and it gets even better. The property features a resort-style pool and spa, a fully equipped outdoor kitchen, and sweeping Hill Country views in every direction. There’s even a private shooting range, abundant wildlife, and space to truly disconnect—while still being close enough to everything New Braunfels has to offer.

WEATHER FORECAST

Here’s a look at the weekend weather forecast:

Friday: High: 86º | Low: 70º | 15% chance of precipitation

Saturday: High: 73º | Low: 56º | 80% chance of precipitation

Sunday: High: 68º | Low: 52º | 25% chance of precipitation

Burn Ban: ON

Water Restrictions: Stage 2

Looking for something different to do just down the road from New Braunfels? This glass-bottom boat tour at The Meadows Center is one of those experiences that’s surprisingly cool for all ages. Cruise over crystal-clear San Marcos Springs and watch fish, turtles, and underwater plant life glide beneath you, like a real-life nature documentary, but you’re in it.

Right now, you can score up to 39% off tickets for two, four, or six people, making it an easy win for a family outing, date, or group hang. Tours run throughout the day, and kids 2 and under ride free. It’s simple, relaxing, and actually interesting (even for adults who “don’t do tours”).

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BUZZ AROUND TOWN

Betty Lou Coffee Expanding To Brick-And-Mortar Location
One of New Braunfels’ favorite coffee trailers is leveling up. Betty Lou Coffee announced plans to move into a permanent brick-and-mortar space this summer as the business continues to grow beyond its mobile setup.

Clark’s Auto Service Celebrates 50 Years In New Braunfels
A longtime local staple is hitting a major milestone. Clark’s Auto Service is celebrating 50 years of serving the community, continuing its legacy as a trusted, family-owned shop with ASE-certified expertise.

City Moves To Protect Endangered Species Along Comal River
New Braunfels is taking steps to better protect the Old Channel of the Comal River. A proposed ordinance would restrict public access to help preserve the habitat of the endangered fountain darter, with a final vote still ahead.

New Commercial Development Planned At Hill Marketplatz
A new project called Hill Marketplatz is in the works, bringing additional retail and office space to the area. The development aims to transform part of an existing property into a hub for local businesses.

New Trail Opens At Panther Canyon In Landa Park
Outdoor lovers have a new spot to explore. The North Rim Trail has officially opened, adding a more rugged and scenic route to the Panther Canyon trail system with elevated views and a more challenging hike.

Saengerfest Lineup Announced For May 2
This year’s Saengerfest is shaping up to be a big one, with a full day of live music including Cody Canada & The Departed as headliners. The event will also feature food, shopping, and family-friendly activities in downtown New Braunfels.

Fruity Pebble Pancakes Return For April at breakfast.
A fan-favorite breakfast item is back for the month at breakfast. Fruity Pebble Pancakes have officially returned, giving locals a colorful and nostalgic treat to enjoy all April long.

Hop & Shop Easter Market Happening This Weekend
The Hop & Shop Easter Market is set for Saturday at Freiheit Country Store, featuring local vendors, handmade goods, food, and family-friendly activities. It’s a great way to support small businesses while enjoying a spring day out.

Thanks!

That’s it for today’s edition. We’ll see you soon with more of the stories and events that keep New Braunfels buzzing.

Don’t forget that you can become a Plus member and get tomorrow morning’s exclusive Bonus edition with exclusive stories you won’t find elsewhere.

Until next time,

— The New Braunfels Life Team

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