FreeHolidays on the Hill at Gruene Historic District
Through Jan 3Nov 21 – Jan 3 · 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM · Nov 21, 2026 – Jan 3, 2027. District open daily 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Pony Express arrives Saturday, Dec 5 at 10:00 AM; Cowboy Kringle photos weekends.
Gruene Historic District1281 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130 · 31.9 mi approx. from San AntonioDirections
All ages (paved paths and flat wooden boardwalks, stroller accessible, quiet riverbank lawns)
FreeFree admission to historic district, market, and Pony Express arrival; photo packages with Cowboy Kringle priced separately
About this adventure
Step into Texas history during the holidays in the Gruene Historic District of New Braunfels, nestled along the banks of the scenic Guadalupe River. The preserved 19th-century cotton-mill town celebrates Christmas with unique Hill Country charm, featuring visits from 'Cowboy Kringle'—Santa clad in his signature leather boots, cowboy hat, and Western jacket. Families can witness the annual arrival of the Pony Express on the first Saturday in December, carrying commemorative Christmas greeting mail on horseback from New Braunfels to Gruene. Stroll wooden boardwalks lined with antique shops and craft markets, savor German gingerbread and hot cider, and take festive photos in front of legendary Gruene Hall.
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