New German Christmas Market - 12/13-14

Guests at this year's Tannenbaum Ball in Fredericksburg can shop for distinct and whimsical gifts at the new German Christmas Market, part of the Gillespie County Historical Society's Preservation Weekend, held Dec 12 and 13, 2008.


The Society hosts the Tannenbaum Ball on Friday, December 12, from 7:00-11:30 pm at Pioneer Pavilion, Lady Bird Johnson Park, Hwy 16 South of Fredericksburg. This year's theme is "Winter Wonderland," with entertainment by singer Linda Petty. Guests will enjoy cocktails and reserved dinner seating. The new German Christmas Market will help guests find new and interesting gifts, according to Linder Langerhans, Auction Committee Chair.


"Our new Christmas Market is another way for the public to support the Society in a fun way," Langerhans said. "These items are easy to pick up and make great Christmas gifts."


Committee members sought out unique items not available locally and that reflect playful themes. For example, Poof Fairies are 8" tall, frilly creations that sport whimsical messages such as "Poof - the kids are asleep" and "Poof - Dinner is ready." Varsity China features ceramic plates adorned with logos from major universities in Texas. Other gift items include Knobstoppers - vintage wine bottle toppers, and San Francisco music boxes.


Shoppers can also bid on their favorite live and silent auction items. Top offerings include a Houston Grand Opera Package, Santa Fe Retreat, Wine Tasting Party, Texas Bird Hunt, and a Murder Mystery Dinner.


"This wonderful event is the Society's major fundraiser for operation of the museum," Langerhans said. "Being there is great fun, with good music and good food."


On Saturday, Dec 13, the public can view eight unique Fredericksburg properties decorated for the season on the Holiday Home Tour. Properties will be open between 1:00 and 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2008. All are located in and around Fredericksburg.


Tickets for the tour are $25 per person. For an additional $18, visitors can reserve rides on the trolley that shuttles from door to door. Trolley seating is limited, so guests are encouraged to reserve early.


Reservations for the Tannenbaum Ball are $100 per person, and must be made by December 5.


Patrons can order tickets by any of four methods:

By phone - 830-997-2835

By mail - GCHS, 312 West San Antonio Street, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

By email - Vickibeasley@austin.rr.com

In person - Pioneer Museum, Vereins Kirche, Historical Society office, Gastehaus Schmidt, Journey Lane Scrapbooking, Crenwelge Motors (Kerrville)


The Home Tour and Ball are the largest fundraisers for the Gillespie County Historical Society, whose mission is to preserve and tell the story of Fredericksburg’s unique cultural heritage.