Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Downtown Lighting & Santa's Arrival
Official downtown lighting ceremony with Santa's arrival.
About
Join the festive kickoff to the holiday season in downtown New Braunfels! Witness the magical moment Mayor Neal Linnartz flips the switch, illuminating the city with dazzling lights. Following the grand illumination, Santa Claus makes a special arrival via fire truck, ready for photos with families. Enjoy live music from local bands and savor festive treats available for purchase.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and individuals looking to celebrate the start of the holiday season.
Vibe
Festive, community-oriented, cheerful
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Medium
Special Events & Promotions
- Proceeds from Santa photos benefit the New Braunfels Parks Foundation.
- Free shuttle service available from City Hall.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
$
Duration
3 hours
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- New Braunfels Community Band
- Canyon High School Steel Drum Band
Organizer
City of New Braunfels
Practical Information
Parking
Free shuttle available from City Hall.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed
Food & Drink
Sausage on a stick, snacks, and hot chocolate for sale by the New Braunfels Downtown Association.
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure a good spot for the countdown and Santa's arrival, especially if you plan to take photos.
- Bring cash or a debit/credit card for photos with Santa and for purchasing hot chocolate and snacks from the Downtown Association.
- Utilize the free shuttle service from City Hall to easily access the event and avoid parking hassles in the downtown area.
- Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as the event takes place outdoors in the evening.
- Consider arriving a bit before the 6:00 PM start time to enjoy the festive atmosphere and find the best viewing locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the event start?
The event begins at 6:00 PM with the official lighting ceremony.
When does Santa arrive?
Santa Claus is scheduled to arrive after the lights are turned on, around 6:30 PM.
How much do photos with Santa cost?
Photos with Santa are $10 each, with proceeds benefiting the New Braunfels Parks Foundation. Credit/debit card payments are accepted.
Is there parking available?
A free shuttle service is provided from City Hall (550 Landa Street) to West Mill Street, making it easy to access the event without worrying about downtown parking.
What food and drinks will be available?
You can purchase sausage on a stick, snacks, and hot chocolate from the New Braunfels Downtown Association.
