✨Gruene Market Days, Christmas at the Caverns, + More New Braunfels Fun!

December 04, 2025

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Hey there! Can you believe another week is almost over? Will you be at Wassailfest tonight? Even if you don’t go, your Thursday lineup is still looking extra festive, and we pulled together the good stuff so you can slide straight into the holiday vibes without digging for details. Let’s get into it…

New Braunfels has some of the hardest water in the country, and that can spell big trouble for your home. From ruining dishwashers and water heaters to drying out your skin and hair, hard water damage adds up fast.

That’s why we trust Aqua-Man Water Conditioning, a locally owned company that’s been protecting homes in the Hill Country for more than 30 years. They offer custom systems tailored to your needs — no gimmicks, just clean, soft water you can count on.

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Nearly 100 artisans, live entertainment, and a full weekend of festive shopping

Looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing way to spend the weekend? Gruene Market Days has been a Hill Country staple for more than 30 years, bringing together nearly 100 artisans showcasing handmade goods, unique crafts, and packaged Texas foods. With free parking, free admission, and live entertainment, it’s one of those classic local events that never misses.

While you're in the Gruene Historic District, you can make it a full day: stroll through specialty shops, enjoy wine tasting, grab a bite at local restaurants, listen to live music, or even squeeze in a river ride.

This month’s event runs December 6–7 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., set right in front of Gruene Coffee Haus.

Carols underground, lights above ground, and a Hill Country tradition unlike any other

Natural Bridge Caverns is taking Christmas magic to a whole new level — literally. Step into Texas’ largest underground cavern and hear your favorite carols echo through the ancient formations.

Back above ground, the celebration continues with Santa visits, stories from Mrs. Claus, a 5,000-sq-ft outdoor maze, a glowing trail of lights, synthetic ice skating, s’mores, live music, and cozy Hill Country charm everywhere you look.

This event is running select dates in December, so check their website to get tickets before they’re gone.

In case you missed it in yesterday’s email: Last week we asked if y’all would be interested in a custom New Braunfels Life Texan ice cube kit, and the response was overwhelming. So we made it happen.

Introducing the Limited Edition New Braunfels Life Bundle, a custom-branded rOks silicone tray paired with six Texas-themed inserts (boot, longhorn, cactus, star, horseshoe, and the state of Texas). Just fill, freeze, and pop out perfectly molded Texas cubes that instantly elevate any cocktail, mocktail, or iced coffee.

This is a one-week-only preorder, and every bundle is guaranteed to arrive before Christmas as long as you order by December 10. They make the perfect gift for New Braunfels locals, new residents, or anyone who loves a little Hill Country flair.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND TOWN?

Here are some of the events we’re most excited about over the next few days:

THURSDAY
Madelyn Abrameit Band at Krause’s Cafe
Teen Time: Stamp Carving at the New Braunfels Public Library
Pictures with Krause Klaus at Krause’s Cafe
Children’s Entrepreneur Market at Krause’s Cafe
Wassailfest 2025 at Main Plaza
Pool Tournament at Happy Cow Bar

FRIDAY
Paws to Read at New Braunfels Public Library
Friday Afternoon Club at Gruene Hall
New Braunfels Renaissance Faire at Church Hill Drive
X Factory at Krause’s Cafe
Michael Martin Murphey’s Cowboy Christmas at The Brauntex Performing Arts Theatre
Kyle Park at Gruene Hall

SATURDAY
Bulky Goods Drop Off in New Braunfels
24th Annual Gruene Pony Express Ride at Gruene Historic District
Gruene Market Days in Gruene Historic District
Photos with Cowboy Kringle in Historic Gruene
Family Storytime at New Braunfels Public Library
Bucksnort Boogie Boys at Krause’s Cafe

If you're looking for a festive family outing just a short drive from New Braunfels, the Holiday Market at Traders Village San Antonio is the perfect way to jump into the Christmas spirit. Beginning Saturday, December 6th and running every weekend until Christmas, visitors can enjoy pictures with Santa from 12–4 PM, explore the all-new Snowflake Trail, and discover fun surprises along the way — including holiday photo ops, candy canes from Village Elves, and cheerful Christmas decor throughout the market.

Make a full day of it by browsing hundreds of vendors and crossing off your holiday shopping list while you celebrate. With free admission and parking only $6, it’s an easy, affordable, and memory-making adventure for the whole family. Traders Village is located at 9333 SW Loop 410 — don’t miss your chance to make this your new holiday tradition! 🎅✨

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One of the most heartwarming (and impressive) events of the season is happening tonight at Krause’s Café. As Wassailfest kicks off downtown, the Children’s Entrepreneur Market will take over the Krause’s parking lot from 5 to 8 pm, giving local kids the chance to step into the spotlight as business owners for the evening.

This award-winning national program teaches young creators real-world skills by letting them design their own booths, make and price their products, interact with customers, and experience the thrill — and responsibility — of running a small business. Whether you’re shopping for unique holiday gifts or simply want to support the next generation of New Braunfels makers, it’s a perfect stop during tonight’s festivities.

WILL YOU BE THERE?

Looking for something festive and fun to do this month? Painting With A Twist New Braunfels has a full lineup of holiday-themed paint sessions—perfect for date nights, outings with friends, family fun, or even company parties. There’s a class for every age and skill level. Just bring your favorite drink, grab your people, and get ready to create a holiday masterpiece. Spots fill quickly this time of year, so book your session now!

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DID YOU KNOW?

In 1922, the infamous Newton Boys pulled off a bold daytime bank robbery in downtown New Braunfels, emptying the New Braunfels State Bank at gunpoint and locking employees in the vault before escaping with the cash. It remains one of the most notorious heists in local history.

WEATHER FORECAST 

Thursday: High: 55º | Low: 45º | 25% chance of precipitation

Friday: High: 51º | Low: 43º | 45% chance of precipitation

Saturday: High: 70º | Low: 47º | 0% chance of precipitation

Burn Ban: ON

Water Restrictions: Stage 2 (In Stage 2, watering with a sprinkler or irrigation system is allowed one day per week based on the last digit of your address BEFORE 10:00 a.m. and AFTER 8:00 p.m.)

Looking for a low-stress, high-fun way to start the day? The Courthouse is hosting Family Movie Mornings every day in December from 8 am to 12 pm. Kids can enjoy cartoons on the giant screen and play on the playground while you sip coffee, grab breakfast, or even sneak in a game of pickleball or padel. It’s the perfect way to relax, recharge, and keep everyone entertained under one roof.

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Thanks!

That wraps up today’s newsletter! We hope you found it fun and helpful.

If you enjoyed this edition, pass it along to a friend who loves keeping up with everything happening in New Braunfels.

See you in the next update,

— The New Braunfels Life Team

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