The holiday season in New Braunfels will officially begin with the annual lighting of downtown and the arrival of Santa Claus, an event that invites the community to gather at Main Plaza for a dazzling display of lights and festivities next Friday. The city is buzzing as streets around Main Plaza are scheduled to close at 4:30 pm, with the celebration set to start at 5:45 pm, featuring performances by American Dance Co. and the local Community Band, providing a cheerful backdrop to the evening's main attractions.
According to an announcement on the City Of New Braunfels website, Mayor Neal Linnartz will take the stage at 6:30 pm to lead the countdown to the momentous lighting while a complimentary shuttle service is being offered from City Hall to the plaza; running from 5:30 pm until 9:30 pm, ensuring attendees can enjoy the night's happenings without the hassle of parking downtown. The streets, once closed, will be a foot-traffic-only zone alive with the sounds of holiday music and the anticipation of the community as they gather for the lighting and await Santa's arrival on a fire truck.
As the lights shine, Santa Claus will be in the spotlight, greeting families in the New Braunfels Utility (NBU) parking lot for photos until 8:30 p.m. Each photo will cost $10, with all proceeds going to the New Braunfels Parks Foundation to support local parks and recreation. The New Braunfels Community Band and the Canyon High School Steel Drum Band will continue the festive atmosphere with music until 8:30 p.m. when the streets around the plaza will reopen.
