Tomball German Festival Christmas Market 2024 in Texas

Tomball German Festival and Christmas Market is a three-day festival where you can dance and shop with friends and family while experiencing the best of German culture at the same time. The festival features three stages with live music, an open-air market, and unique shops in the old town area. Don’t miss a chance to purchase German Heritage items and arts and crafts featured by more than 160 unique and interesting street vendors.

Festival Program

With a jam-packed program of events, the festival is sure to entertain even the most picky visitors. From the Bier Stein Hoist Contest, where participants compete for the title of the steadiest stein holder, to a hilarious Chicken Dance Contest, where adults and children show off their dancing skills, there's something for everyone. Visitors can also join the fun in the Yodeling Contest, Dance Fest, and Schuhplattler Contest–an entertaining competition that celebrates traditional Schuhplattler dance skills.

Besides the contests, the crowds will enjoy numerous carnival rides available at the venue, as well as live performances of folk dancing troupes, local bands, and beloved artists. Children can also meet Santa and tell him all about their wishes.

Christmas Parade

On Saturday, you might be lucky to witness an annual Christmas parade along Market Street. The parade marks the official beginning of the festival and is followed by the welcome ceremony and the tapping of the keg, a tradition common in German communities. Numerous local organizations and members of community take part in the parade, wearing traditional German attire and greeting the spectators. The event is set to take place at 11 am on Saturday.

Christmas Market

While you're strolling through the festival grounds, stop by the Christmas market area, filled to the brim with dozens of vendors offering various arts & crafts, souvenirs, and hand-made decorations. The food court has no shortage of traditional German treats, including Bratwurst, schnitzel, pretzels, Currywurst, and many other options. The beverage menu features several wine varieties and beer options from local breweries.

Schedule

The festival is set to take place over three days. On Friday, December 14th, the festivities span from 6 pm to 10 pm, while on Saturday, the fun begins at 10 am and lasts until 10 pm. The parade takes place at 11 am on Saturday. The festival is open from 10 am until 6 pm on Sunday.

Tickets & Parking

Admission to the festival is completely free, as is the parking. There are plenty of parking options near S Elm Street, the festival venue. If you're planning on drinking, consider catching a ride on a free shuttle, which is provided on Saturday from 10 am to 10:30 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 6:30 pm.

Location

The festivities span in the Old Town of Tomball, all across S Elm Street, near the Historical Train Depot Plaza. The city of Tomball itself is situated just 34 miles (55 km) northwest of Houston, which makes it a great spot for a weekend getaway.