Premier Holiday Towns in the Austin and San Antonio Area

Let’s look at some holiday towns in the Austin and San Antonio area to consider for a memorable seasonal vacation. This region may not promise a classic white Christmas, but its charming communities, scenic landscapes, and festive atmosphere create an idyllic setting for a holiday retreat. 

New Braunfels, renowned for its attractions in the Gruene Historic District, is a charming city nestled along the confluence of two meandering rivers. Its German heritage is showcased at Weihnachtsmarkt, scheduled for November 17th through 19th this year. This indoor Christmas market features tasty eats and drinks, artisan goods, an elegant gala, and Breakfast with Santa. The city’s Festival of Trees, scheduled for November 14th through 16th, presents beautifully decorated trees and wreaths, serving as a celebration of the season while raising funds for various charitable causes.

Primarily recognized for housing Texas A&M University, College Station thrives as a bustling city. Its passion for sports is extraordinary, and a holiday visit often provides the opportunity to catch an exciting Texas A&M college basketball game. Also, the city hosts several events throughout the season, from performances of classics such as The Nutcracker to a light show at Beachy Central Park. 

The historical city of Georgetown boasts renowned Victorian-era architecture and the picturesque Blue Hole Park. Georgetown serves as a well-established holiday hotspot, thanks to the city’s seasonal celebrations. Its Main Street, covered in dazzling holiday lights, houses delightful local businesses perfect for holiday shopping. Georgetown’s festive annual traditions include the Lighting of the Square on November 24th and the Christmas Stroll on December 1st and 2nd.

Marble Falls is a gorgeous destination in Hill Country, ideal for those who want to spend their holidays outdoors. Lake Marble Falls, the town’s vast signature lake surrounded by parks and forests, offers excellent opportunities for fishing, hiking, and boating. The city runs a skating rink and hosts annual traditions, including the Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting on November 10th and the Christmas Light-Up Parade on December 1st. 

Boerne is a perfect holiday retreat slightly off the beaten path. This beautiful small town embodies all that people love about Hill Country. It encompasses lovely scenery, local vineyards and breweries, and a bustling Main Street reflecting the town’s German heritage. Boerne’s spectacular renowned seasonal celebrations include a Victorian-themed Dickens on Main event on November 24th and 25th, complete with costumes and performances, and Cowboy Christmas Market Days, a fantastic shopping experience.

Fredericksburg, considered the heart of Texas’s wine country, houses an abundance of vineyards and tasting rooms that remain open throughout the holidays. Fredericksburg’s reputation for festivity is well-earned, with an ice-skating rink around the town’s 30-foot Christmas tree, a Light the Night Christmas Parade on December 1st, and the nightly Christmas Night of Lights tradition beginning November 21st.

Prefer the urban lifestyle? Check out what sets Austin and San Antonio apart for city lovers.