Traditional Texas towns, food, music, art, and culture — you’ll find it all a stone’s throw from our New Braunfels vacation rentals. There’s so much happening in the area, you’ll have plenty of Gruene events and activities to choose from during your stay in one of our New Braunfels vacation rentals.
Take in the culture and flavors of the Lone Star State with some of the best Gruene, Texas, events during your riverside vacation. No matter the season, there’s always food to eat, culture to take in, and rivers to enjoy — and raft! — in our Texas county.
Remember, some local events require tickets in advance, so as soon as you’ve booked a place to stay, read up on local events to make sure you don’t miss out.
Old Gruene Market Days
Get an inside look at the Texas art, culture, and lifestyle with a visit to the local market minutes from our New Braunfels rentals.
Located in the heart of the Gruene Historic District, the market boasts more than 100 artisans with handmade goods, including art, crafts, jewelry and local foods.
Find interesting gemstones, silver jewelry, pottery, bath bombs, stone-carved cheese boards, local beef jerky, and decor, like carved nativity scenes for Christmas, Halloween window hangings, and seasonal wreaths. You’ll also find some eclectic art, costumes, and accessories, like hand-painted guitars, quirky hats, and Dia de los Muertos portraits.
If you bring a four-legged friend along, be sure to pick them up a bag of gluten-free baked dog treats from Bo Jangles!
The city’s historic district is always bustling with activity, so be sure to visit shops, wine and dine, and see some live entertainment after you’ve perused the market. The market is located directly across from Tex-Mex restaurant Adobe Verde, so you won’t have to go far for a meal.
Visit the market year-round except for January, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Most months, the market is held on the third weekend of the month and the first weekend in December.
Gruene Music and Wine Festival
Like Texas music? How about wine? This Texas town does, too!
For more than 30 years, the Gruene Music and Wine Festival has brought visitors and locals together for a weekend of Texas and Americana music and Lone Star State wine.
The event typically runs from Thursday evening to Sunday, promising four days of fun. Craft beer tastings, artist meet-and-greets, a signed guitar auction, prizes, and catered meals by local restaurants are all part of this memorable weekend.
The best part? You get to have fun for a good cause! The festival is a fundraiser for the local United Way, raising nearly $150,000 in 2021. Admission to some events is free, with proceeds from wine and beer sales going to charity.
The decades-old event takes place in October in the Gruene Historic District. Events take place indoors and out, including at Gruene Hall (the state’s oldest dance hall!) and at a local winery, The Grapevine Garden.
Other Gruene Events
Come and Taste It
On the third Thursday of each month, head to The Grapevine Garden for a night of local music, wine, and beer from local makers like Llano Estacado and Karbach Brewing Co. Immerse yourself in Texas culture at Come and Taste It, a gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
This much-loved event in the heart of the Gruene Historic District takes place every month of the year except for January and is free and open to the public to attend.
Americana Music Jam
Join some of the area’s best singers and guitarists for a jam session at Gruene Hall, established in 1878. This is Americana music at its finest.
The all-day event, presented by local station KNBT 92.1FM Radio New Braunfels, features musicians like Reckless Kelly, Randy Rogers, Jamie Lin Wilson, and Slaid Cleaves. Proceeds from ticket sales go to Connections Individual and Family Services, an organization supporting at-risk youth in Comal County.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re planning a fun adventure to New Braunfels, browse our full rental catalog to find the perfect property for your stay. The team at River City Resorts looks forward to hosting you!
Swing Dance Lessons
Have you ever wanted to learn to swing dance? There’s no better time than on your New Braunfels vacation.
Swing the night away with popular rock-a-billy band Two Tons of Steel all summer long. Doors are open at 7:30 p.m., and the show starts at 8:30 p.m. Be sure to arrive early if you want to learn some moves.
Learn East Coast swing steps — wraps, tunnels, turns, and spins — in this beginner-friendly class. The hour-long lesson is held at 6 p.m. before Two Tons of Steel takes the stage. Practice your steps, grab a partner, and dance the night away when the band goes on.
If there’s time in between, grab a bite to eat at one of the historic district’s many restaurants, most a short walk away. Whether you’re craving Tex-Mex, all-American, or something a little more exotic, you’ll find something that tickles your fancy in the area.
Friday Afternoon Club
Cap off the week with happy hour (or hours) at popular New Braunfels venue Gruene Hall. This 25-year-old tradition promises $3 beers against the musical backdrop of Texas tunes. They call it a club, but membership is cheap and easy — all you need to do is show up and order a beer!
Friday happy hour is one of the best events in Gruene, TX, for young and old alike. The hall, which has gone largely unchanged in 145 years, will take you back to simpler times. A special guest interview is broadcast live by local radio station KNBT each week. Past interviews include singer-songwriter Steve Earle and swing musician Ray Benson.
Keep your ears open throughout the afternoon for prize giveaways.
Located in the city’s historic district, the Friday Afternoon Club is open for beers from 4 to 7 p.m. weekly and is free to attend.
Stay With River City Resorts
Let us be your home away from home during your Texas vacation. Be close to both nature and the city at our stunning New Braunfels riverside rentals, or enjoy a peaceful stay in nearby Canyon Lake with its clear waters, swimming beaches, fishing, scenic views, and abundant nature.
Our Guadalupe River rentals are perfect for those looking to escape — but not too far from the activity of the city. The spacious units can accommodate couples, families, and groups, with rentals typically sleeping between four and 12 people. Enjoy riverfront views, resort-style pools and spas, and quick access to local trails and bike paths. Comal River rentals put you at the heart of the action. Enjoy peaceful suites on the doorstep of one of the best tubing rivers and other things to do near New Braunfels.
Whether you’re looking to stay in a condo on the river or a luxurious house, we have the perfect rentals for you and your family and friends. Enjoy a getaway that brings you close to nature and to central Texas tradition at our luxury rentals in New Braunfels.
