Get ready to experience the magic of a German Christmas! The Tomball German Christmas Market returns December 12-14, 2025, bringing the heartwarming charm of German holiday culture to Old Town Tomball. And here’s the best part: admission and parking are completely FREE!
This event is consistently ranked among the best Christmas markets in the U.S., so you know it’s worth your time.
How It All Started
What began as a small gathering with an Oompah band on a flat-bed trailer has now become one of the most highly anticipated holiday events in Texas. Approximately 60,000 visitors arrive in Tomball for the Christmas market from cities such as Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, and beyond.
But this festival is more than just holiday fun. The Tomball German Festivals raise money for exchange programs between Tomball and Telgte, Germany, including scholarships for students to study overseas. Each event, nearly $3,000 is donated to German clubs who perform and participate at the festivals.
Festival Schedule
- Friday, December 12: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday, December 13: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday, December 14: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location & Parking
Where: 201 S. Elm Street in Old Town Tomball, near the Historical Train Depot Plaza
Parking Options:
- Plenty of street parking on side streets around the festival
- Free shuttle from the East parking lot of HCA Houston Healthcare Tomball (10 AM – 10:30 PM Saturday; 10 AM – 6:30 PM Sunday)
- Handicap parking at 310 South Cherry Street (Tomball ISD Administration Building)
What to Expect
With more than 150 vendors, four live music stages, festive contests, and plenty of family fun, there’s something for everyone. From festive music and classic food to handmade gifts and quirky competitions, this three-day celebration of German heritage showcases Tomball’s community spirit.
Contests & Entertainment
Ready to have some fun? Here are this year’s featured contests:
- Bier Stein Hoist Contest – Test your strength and endurance in this fan-favorite challenge with separate categories for men, women, and kids
- Chicken Dance Contest – Adults and kids alike compete for prizes in this hilarious dance-off
- Yodeling Contest – Warm up your vocal cords and give it your best alpine try
- Schuhplattler Dance Fest – Bring your clogs and best dance moves to celebrate Bavarian folk traditions
Special Moments
Saturday, December 13, is a full-day extravaganza, starting with the ceremonial tapping of the keg at 10:30 AM and a Willkommen celebration welcoming German exchange students and host families.
Don’t miss the “Feztival” of Trees sponsored by the Bayou City Children’s Fund—a forest of beautifully decorated Christmas trees with gifts you can win.
Money Matters
- Most vendors accept credit and debit cards
- Important: Beer sales are cash only
- Several ATMs are on site, but bring some cash on hand just in case
Visitor Tips
- Rain or shine! Plenty of covered areas are available
- Small, friendly pets are welcome but must be leashed
- The festival grounds are flat and accessible for handicap visitors
Contact & More Information
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: tomballgermanfest.org
- Facebook: Tomball German Festivals
- Address: 200 Market St, Tomball, TX
Make it a weekend to remember—eat, drink, dance, and be merry at the Tomball German Christmas Market, December 12–14. Prost!
