Tomball German Christmas Market Returns December 12-14: A Festive Weekend of Music, Merriment & Family Fun in Old Town Tomball
Mark your calendars and dust off your Dirndls—Tomball’s most beloved holiday tradition is back! The Tomball German Christmas Market returns December 12-14, 2025, bringing the heartwarming charm of German holiday culture to Old Town Tomball. With more than 150 vendors, four live music stages, festive contests, and plenty of family fun, it’s no wonder this event is consistently ranked among the “20 Best Christmas Markets in the U.S.” by travelmag.com. Even better? Admission, parking, and shuttles are all completely free.
Set against the charming backdrop of Tomball’s historic downtown, the three-day festival is a celebration of German heritage—and a showcase of Tomball’s community spirit. From festive music and classic food to handmade gifts and quirky contests, there’s truly something for everyone.
Festival Highlights: What to Expect This Year
This year’s market will feature an estimated 163 unique street vendors stretching across Market and S. Walnut Streets, offering handmade crafts, seasonal décor, German souvenirs, and one-of-a-kind gifts. The Weihnachtshaus, located inside the Tomball Community Center at 221 Market Street, will be filled with authentic German clothing, keepsakes, and holiday treasures.
And don’t forget the music: four lively stages will keep toes tapping with traditional Oompah bands, folk music, and festive tunes—just the thing to keep spirits bright.
The fun kicks off Friday evening, December 12, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with food, drinks, and a preview of vendors and performances. 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. The festival continues all day until 10:00 PM. On Sunday, December 14, families can enjoy even more holiday cheer from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
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Crowd-Favorite Contests Add to the Holiday Cheer
Get ready to cheer—or join in—on some of the silliest, most spirited contests in town:
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Bier Stein Hoist Contest – Test your strength and endurance in this fan-favorite challenge, with separate categories for men, women, and kids.
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Chicken Dance Contest – Adults and kids alike compete for first and second place in this hilarious dance-off.
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Yodeling Contest – Warm up your vocal cords and give it your best alpine try.
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Schuhplattler Dance Fest – Bring your clogs and best dance moves to celebrate Bavarian folk traditions.
Prizes await the boldest competitors, and it’s all in good fun and high holiday spirits.
Family Fun Meets Old-World Tradition
The Tomball German Christmas Market is a place where Gemütlichkeit—cozy togetherness—comes to life. The family-friendly ambiance is amplified by strolling performers, street musicians, carnival games, and an array of savory and sweet foods that range from brats and schnitzel to strudel and roasted nuts.
Want to stay a little longer? There’s plenty of street parking around the festival grounds, and a free shuttle will run Saturday (10 AM – 10:30 PM) and Sunday (10 AM – 6:30 PM) from the east lot of HCA Houston Healthcare Tomball.
The festival is also pet-friendly—just be sure to keep your furry friends leashed and comfortable.
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Know Before You Go
- Location: 201 S. Elm Street, Old Town Tomball (near the Historic Train Depot Plaza)
- Admission & Parking: FREE
- Festival Hours
- Friday: 6 PM – 10 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Handicap Accessibility: Available; parking at 310 S. Cherry Street (Tomball ISD Administration Building)
- Cash Tips: Beer sales are cash-only; vendors generally accept cards, and ATMs are onsite.
- Rain or Shine: The festival goes on regardless of weather, with covered areas to keep dry.
A Celebration of Tomball’s German Roots
What began over 16 years ago with a single Oompah band on a flatbed trailer has grown into one of the largest music and street festivals in Texas. Hosted by the Tomball/Telgte Sister City Organization, the Tomball German Christmas Market honors the deep German roots of the area, where immigrants first settled as early as 1840.
But don’t worry—you don’t have to be German to have a great time. Everyone is welcome to join in the dancing, shopping, and holiday cheer.
For more information or to volunteer, visit tomballgermanfest.org or email info@tomballgermanfest.org.
Make it a weekend to remember—eat, drink, dance, and be merry at the Tomball German Christmas Market, December 12–14. Prost!
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
