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Christmas Events in the Texas Hill Country
The Texas Hill Country is a breathtaking natural area stretching between Austin and San Antonio, Texas. It is known for its wineries and olive oil operations; its dramatic scenery, miles of hiking trails, legendary barbecue joints, and has made it a favorite destination for fall recreation for millions of visitors. In the winter months, the beautiful Texas Hill Country vistas and scenic roadways make the perfect backdrop for a hometown country Christmas.
When you check out the events calendar, you’ll find a wide variety of Christmas events happening throughout the Texas Hill Country to suit a wide variety of tastes!
Christmas Events in the Texas Hill Country – A Few Favorites
Blanco County Courthouse Lighting (Nov 25 and 26) – Look to the skies for this Johnson City-based celebration because the real party doesn’t begin until Santa arrives at 6:30 p.m. The historic Blanco County Courthouse will be lit up for the season, with music and food to follow.
Horror for the Holidays (Nov 26 and 27) – Are spooky vibes your thing all year round? The eighth annual Horror for the Holidays convention at the Palmer Events Center in Austin might be for you. Christmas and horror have become more linked in recent years, with a revival of interest in creepy Old-World figures like Krampus, developing alongside a swath of recent holiday-themed horror movies ranging from the hilariously bad to top-tier chills. This strange merging of worlds is on full display at Horror for the Holidays, with over 70 vendors and fun activities that are somehow both spooky as heck and full of Christmas cheer.
The Christmas Wine Affair (Nov 28 to Dec 23) – 21+ revelers can hitch up the reindeer and take their magic sleighs onto the legendary Texas Hill Country Wine Trail for this holly jolly tasting event hosted by 40 participating hill country wineries. The program originates in Fredericksburg and includes tastings and special discounts.
Christmas at the Caverns (Dec 3) – For those roaming Hill Country, one of the coolest Christmas programs around will require heading underground! Natural Bridge Caverns is arguably one of the area’s most breathtaking natural attractions. Natural Bridge is a cave system chock full of geological and historical experiences that transform into something even more enchanting for Christmas at the Caverns. The highlight of this one-of-a-kind Christmas celebration is the caroling because you get to hear your favorite Christmas songs within the setting of the cavern’s jaw-dropping acoustics. The festivities extend above ground with a maze, lighted trail, and more.
Christmas on Mercer Street (Dec 3) – Head to Dripping Springs for one of the region’s most charming “Hometown Christmas” celebrations. Lights, shopping, and Christmas cheer abound in this delightful setting. The City of Dripping Springs pulls out all the stops to organize a celebration full of warmth and tradition.
Old Town Christmas Festival (Dec 3) – The historic Old Town district of Leander, TX (a short drive into the Austin side of Hill Country) is the perfect setting for an all-out, Texas-sized country Christmas. You’ll find all the shopping, family activities, food, and cheer you can handle. A highlight is stopping in at one of Old Town’s fine eateries when you need to be re-energized. Looking to stretch your legs? Travel to Leander a day early on Dec 2 for the annual BHC Reindeer run, a 5K loop through the Block House Creek neighborhood.
Hill Country Holiday Bazaar (Dec 10) – There are actually two separate 2022 events being held with the name “Hill Country Holiday Bazaar,” so pay close attention if you plan to attend one. Each will feature artisan crafts, locally made items, and regional foods. On Dec 10, the bazaar will be held at Caliterra ranch in Dripping Springs. Either is the perfect early kick-off for your Christmas shopping and a way to get your holiday cheer levels up early.
Texas Hill Country: Your New Winter Wonderland
If you’re looking for a winter wonderland without the snow, consider relocating to the Texas Hill Country or one of the many vibrant and modern communities along its outskirts, such as New Braunfels, a community known for its charming German architecture. Newly built housing developments and residential communities like Mayfair just north of New Braunfels offer a variety of housing options, available in 2023.