👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kids Art Gala, Drama Classes & Free Meals

January 07, 2026

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Happy Wednesday, New Braunfels! If you’re looking for ways to keep the kids inspired, creative, and well-fed (without blowing the budget), today’s lineup has you covered. From hands-on art and theatre programs to family-friendly dining deals, today’s edition has everything you need to have fun without spending a lot.

A new year is the perfect time to focus on feeling confident and refreshed, and Newman & Company has rolled out their January specials to help you do just that. This month’s offers include major savings on Laser Hair Removal, Ultimate Skin Renewal, brow services, and a complete Rejuvenation Bundle designed to help you start the year looking and feeling your best.

Whether you’re setting self-care goals for 2026 or just ready for a reset after the holidays, these limited-time deals make it easier to invest in yourself.

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A gallery-style showcase created by kids, for the community

Landa Rec Center is rolling out the red carpet for its Children’s Art Gala on Saturday, January 10, celebrating original artwork by local children ages 5–12. The event will feature paintings, drawings, photography, and sculptures, all displayed in a gallery-style setting designed to spotlight young artists and their creativity.

Guests can enjoy light refreshments, explore the exhibits, visit the interactive art corner, and snap photos at the on-site photo booth. Admission is $5 per person, and families are encouraged to pre-register online to secure their spot for this colorful, feel-good community event.

A 10-week theatre experience that builds confidence and creativity

Circle Arts Theatre is now accepting registrations for Klasses In Drama, a 10-week theatre program for 2nd–9th graders interested in performing arts. The program begins with three weeks of theatre basics and audition prep, followed by auditions and seven weeks of rehearsals leading up to live performances on May 1–3.

This semester’s production is “Seussical Jr.”, a high-energy, family-friendly show that brings beloved Dr. Seuss characters to life. Students meet once a week for classes and 1–2 times weekly during rehearsals, making it a structured yet fun way for kids to build confidence, teamwork skills, and stage presence.

WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND TOWN?

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

WEDNESDAY
🧶 Sit & Stitch at New Braunfels Public Library
🎶 The Georges at Gruene Hall
🍺 Off The Grid at Krause’s Café
🛍️ Humpday Market at Gruene Grove
🎤 Trash Karaoke at Bobby’s Ice

THURSDAY
🎱 Pool Tournament at Happy Cow Bar
🎸 Josh Baca & The Hot Tamales at Guadalupe Brewing
🍷 Wine-O Bingo Night at Water 2 Wine
🎶 Clayton Chapin & Gunnar Latham at Freiheit Country Store
🎬 Family Movie Night at Klein Road Elementary

FRIDAY
🪑 2026 New Braunfels Antique Extravaganza Show at the New Braunfels Texas Convention Center
🎸 Rich Lockhart at Krause’s Café
🎶 Allan Hendrickson at Gruene Hall
🎤 Jamie Richards at Gruene Hall
🔫 New Braunfels Gun Show at Knights of Columbus
🎶 Bill Ayers Band at Watering Hole Saloon
🎤 Tiffiny Dawn at Freiheit Country Store

EXPERIENCE A DIFFERENT APPROACH TO PRIMARY CARE IN NEW BRAUNFELS

Dr. Jason Nelson’s MDVIP-affiliated practice offers a more personalized approach to primary care, built around longer visits, same- or next-day availability, and advanced health screenings. With more than 25 years of experience serving families, Dr. Nelson focuses on prevention, quality of life, and addressing the root causes of health concerns, supporting patients as they pursue wellness.

Located at 1441 Whispering Woods Trail, the practice supports patients with goals ranging from staying active and improving energy to managing long-term health.

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Family dinners that don’t wreck the budget

Dining out with kids adds up fast, but New Braunfels has several restaurants offering Kids Eat Free deals on select days throughout the week. From Monday comfort food classics to Sunday pizza and burrito nights, these specials make it easier for families to enjoy meals together without the extra cost.

We put together a guide rounds up current deals at local favorites like Pat’s Place, Crust Pizza, Sea Island Shrimp House, Freebirds, and more.

🐝 Buzz Around Town

Smoothie King Expands With Second New Braunfels Location
Smoothie King has opened its second New Braunfels shop, this time on South Walnut Avenue. The locally owned franchise, operated by Paul Flores, continues to grow its presence with a menu of smoothies and bowls featuring add-ins like protein, fiber, and collagen.

Bandidas Ice Cream Moves to New Downtown Spot
Locally owned Bandidas Ice Cream has relocated to 231 Landa Street, setting up next to Betty Lou Coffee Co. The food truck is still serving fan-favorite ice cream flavors like s’mores and blueberry cobbler, with plans to eventually bring barbecue back into the mix.

First New Braunfels Baby of 2026 Is Born
Resolute Baptist Hospital welcomed its first baby of 2026 on New Year’s Day. Sebastian Reign Perez was born at 11:31 a.m., weighing 8 pounds, 3 ounces, marking a joyful start to the new year for his family and hospital staff.

New Texas Laws Take Effect January 1, 2026
More than 30 new Texas laws officially took effect at the start of the year, covering topics like artificial intelligence regulation, immigration enforcement cooperation, unemployment claims, squatter evictions, and app store age verification. Governor Greg Abbott signed over 1,100 bills into law during the most recent legislative session.

Southeast Branch Library Planned for Growing Area of New Braunfels
Plans are moving forward for a new Southeast Branch Library, a 24,000-square-foot facility approved by voters in the 2023 bond program. Located near Walnut Avenue and Settler’s Crossing, the branch will serve a fast-growing part of the city and include youth spaces, study rooms, meeting areas, and outdoor programming zones.

Sprouts Farmers Market Sets Opening Date in Creekside
Sprouts Farmers Market is set to open its New Braunfels location on Friday, January 23, at 7 a.m. The new store, located next to HomeGoods in Creekside, will bring fresh produce, bulk foods, vitamins, and natural grocery options to the area.

WEATHER FORECAST 

Wednesday: High: 80º | Low: 53º | 0% chance of precipitation

Thursday: High: 78º | Low: 63º | 0% chance of precipitation

Friday: High: 74º | Low: 58º | 0% chance of precipitation

Burn Ban: ON

Water Restrictions: Stage 2

Located just about an hour from New Braunfels, Joshua Creek Ranch is a premier Texas Hill Country sporting resort known for world-class wingshooting, upscale lodging, and unforgettable outdoor experiences. Open year-round, the ranch offers everything from quail, pheasant, and duck hunting to sporting clays, fly-fishing, and relaxing along the Guadalupe River.

With award-winning accommodations, outstanding cuisine, and customized experiences for individuals, groups, and special events, Joshua Creek Ranch is the perfect destination for a Hill Country getaway without traveling far.

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A Walkable Hill Country Stay With Hot Tub And Two Fireplaces

If you’ve been craving a Hill Country getaway that feels equal parts charming and convenient, Bowie Cottage checks all the boxes. This historic Fredericksburg home is just 1.5 blocks from Main Street, putting shopping, wineries, and restaurants within an easy walk, while still offering a quiet, private place to unwind at the end of the day. Designed for up to four guests, the cottage features two king bedroom suites, each with its own living area and bathroom, making it ideal for couples traveling together or a small group that wants both connection and privacy.

Thanks!

That’s all for today! We hope this edition gave you something helpful to take with you. If you enjoyed it, pass it along to a friend who’d appreciate a daily dose of New Braunfels in their inbox too.

Until next time,

— The New Braunfels Life Team

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