FreeDowntown New Braunfels Tree Lighting & Santa's Arrival
Fri, Nov 206:00 PM – 8:30 PM · Friday, Nov 20, 2026 from 6:00 PM – 8:30 PM (tree switch-on at 6:30 PM). Plaza remains illuminated nightly through early January.
Main Plaza500 Main Plaza, New Braunfels, TX 78130 · 29.4 mi approx. from San AntonioDirections
All ages (flat paved plaza, stroller friendly, family seating areas on plaza grass)
FreeFree admission and free photos with Santa (bring your own camera)
About this adventure
The official holiday season in New Braunfels begins at historic Main Plaza with the annual Downtown Holiday Tree Lighting and Santa's Arrival. Thousands of community members and visitors gather around the historic plaza bandstand to count down as the mayor and civic leaders flip the switch, illuminating the plaza's century-old live oaks and municipal Christmas tree with over 100,000 sparkling white LED lights. Santa Claus makes a grand, siren-blaring arrival riding atop a vintage 1950s fire truck to hear children's Christmas wishes. The evening includes live performances by the New Braunfels High School brass ensemble and local community choirs, holiday story readings, and free photo opportunities with Santa and his elves.
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