Welcome to New Braunfels in winter, where mild temperatures meet big holiday fun and outdoor adventure. This isn’t the tubing-and-sunburns season you might associate with the Hill Country; this is New Braunfels showcasing a completely different side of its personality.
This guide covers the best winter activities New Braunfels has to offer from late November through February.
Whether you’re visiting with family, planning a couples’ getaway, or just looking for something different to do this winter, New Braunfels delivers. Let’s explore what makes winter special in this Hill Country town.
Outdoor Adventure & Nature Activities
Fly Fishing for Trout on the Guadalupe River
Winter is prime time for trout fishing on the Guadalupe River, one of the most unique outdoor activities Texas offers. The Guadalupe River in New Braunfels is listed in America’s 100 Best Trout Streams and is the southernmost trout fishery in the United States.
When to Go: Winter is the peak season for trout fishing on the Guadalupe River, with regular stocking from late November through early March creating ideal conditions, and trout typically remain active throughout the day.
What You Need: A valid Texas fishing license (required for anglers 17 and older), appropriate gear, and knowledge of local regulations.
Between 800 yards downstream from Canyon Dam and the easternmost bridge on FM Road 306, there’s a 12-to-18-inch slot limit where trout 12 inches and under or 18 inches and longer may be retained, with a daily bag limit of five trout.
Consider Hiring a Guide: If you’re new to fly fishing or trout fishing specifically, local guide services can significantly improve your experience. They know where the fish are, what flies work best in current conditions, and can provide all the equipment you need.
Water Activities & River Time
Even in winter, the Guadalupe and Comal Rivers offer scenic beauty and opportunities for light outdoor activities. While tubing season is over, winter opens up different ways to enjoy the rivers.
Kayaking and canoeing become more pleasant in cooler weather. During this time, you’re paddling without the intense sun beating down, and the rivers are less crowded.
Scenic walks along riverbanks at places like Landa Park let you enjoy the natural beauty without committing to getting wet. The cypress trees lining the Guadalupe are particularly beautiful in winter light.
Music, Dining & Evening Fun
Live Music Venues in Historic Gruene
Gruene’s music scene doesn’t take a winter break. If anything, the cooler temperatures make outdoor and indoor venues even more enjoyable.
Gruene Hall is Texas’s oldest continually operating dance hall, and since 1975, it has played host to hundreds of “new talents” such as George Strait, Hal Ketchum, and Lyle Lovett. The hall features live music daily, with both free shows and ticketed events throughout the winter season.
The Watering Hole Saloon offers live music in a relaxed bar and dance hall setting. It’s air-conditioned (a bonus even in winter if it’s crowded), features pool tables, shuffleboard, and darts, and hosts bands regularly throughout the week.
Krause’s Café & Beer Garden combines German beer hall atmosphere with live music. The biergarten setup works year-round—outdoor seating with heaters for cooler evenings, plus indoor space when needed.
Holiday Events & Family-Friendly Festivals
Wassail Fest
On December 4th, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, streets will be lined with Christmas decorations, lights, music, and a fun-filled atmosphere where people of all ages fill the downtown area to celebrate Wassailfest.
Wassailfest celebrates its 33rd anniversary as one of New Braunfels’ most cherished traditions, bringing the community together to kick off the holiday season.
What is Wassail? Wassail is a traditional German holiday beverage consisting of a warm, spiced apple drink, cranberry juice, orange juice, and other spices and flavors, available in both alcoholic (leaded) and non-alcoholic (unleaded) versions.
Cost: The event is free to attend. Official Wassailfest tasting mugs are available for purchase for $10 from the New Braunfels Downtown Association, though disposable cups are provided at tasting stations.
New Braunfels Renaissance Faire
The New Braunfels Renaissance Faire takes place over two weekends: December 5-7 and December 12-14, 2025, at 1370 Church Hill Drive.
This is only the faire’s second year, but it expanded from one weekend to two based on popular demand. The faire offers jousting tournaments, wandering minstrels and merry bards, artisan markets brimming with specialty crafts and food.
Hours:
- Friday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tickets: $12 online, kids under 12 are free; $15 at the gate. Buying tickets online saves you money and ensures entry.
What Makes It Special: The faire takes place at Heritage Village, a historic site filled with buildings constructed in the mid-19th century, which adds authentic character to the medieval atmosphere.
Costumes Welcome: Guests can come in period costume or regular clothes, though dressing up adds to the fun. Think knights, fair maidens, pirates, or humble villagers—all are welcome.
Christmas at Natural Bridge Caverns
Christmas at Natural Bridge Caverns runs on select nights: December 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, 19th, 20th-23rd, 2025.
Location: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Road (about 20 minutes from New Braunfels)
What to Expect: The event features a Trail of Lights, the AMAZEn’ Reindeer Roundup maze, festive games, campfire fun, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, story time with Mrs. Claus, live Christmas music, and a synthetic ice-skating rink free for ages 3-11.
Ticket Options: Ticket prices range from about $18–$47 for kids and $24–$47 for adults, depending on the experience. General Admission includes the Trail of Lights, ice skating, Santa visits, and more.
Community Give-Back: Guests who bring non-perishable food items receive a free s’more kit, supporting local food banks.
Have a Merry Winter Here at New Braunfels
Winter in New Braunfels delivers an unexpected mix of outdoor adventure, festive celebration, and Texas Hill Country culture.
The mild temperatures make this an ideal time to explore everything the area offers without battling the intense summer heat. You can actually spend full days outdoors comfortably, walk through historic Gruene without sweating, and enjoy evening activities without wilting.
Now, grab a jacket, make your plans, and discover why New Braunfels winter is worth experiencing. See you in New Braunfels this winter!
Featured image credit: Reddit contributor via r/texas