Christmas is a special time of the year. The time when gorging on Santa themed sugar cookies isn’t cause for alarm and a family intervention. A month-long celebration of holiday traditions, mugs of hot cocoa, family get-togethers and unlimited shopping sessions.
But when you want to get back to basics and get into the true spirit of Christmas, just get into your car! Living in the Lake Travis area is such a great reason to take a day trip out to one of the many colorful towns surrounding us, and what a better place to visit than Fredericksburg, Texas?
This quaint and inviting German town is a perfect spot to plan for a weekend outing, or a long afternoon spent shopping downtown. About an hour from Austin and 30 minutes outside of the Lake Travis area, this is a perfect Saturday afternoon spent with your dear husband or entire family.
Shopping on Main Street
Take a look around downtown Fredericksburg. Historic limestone buildings, handcrafted German art, a winery on every block, these are all of the features that make this quaint town that much more memorable. Shopping on Main Street is where the action begins, and where you can stock up on handmade goodies for stocking stuffers from the local stores.
When you are in the mood for handmade items such as locally-made ceramics, artisan crafted soaps, and amazing art, Fredericksburg is a choice location to spend your afternoon.
With over 150 shops to visit, from Dogologie to The Christmas Store, from The Rustic Star to Itz Market, there are treasures to be found in almost every store. When I was there last, I was able to pick up a whole bath set with organic soaps for my mom, and even scored a sweet colorful dress for myself at one of my favorite stores, Root. Who said Christmas shopping wasn’t fun?
Grab a Brew, Take it with You
Shopping in Fredericksburg is just one reason why you can trek out to the Texas Hill Country for an afternoon on Main Street.
When you’re in the area, make a quick pit stop (or two) at Fredericksburg Brewing Company. It’s here where German tradition, and amiable meals over bratwurst and brews, really come together to show the true personality of this Texas town. The seasonal beers are a must-try — the Hoppy Holidaze did not disappoint.
And the best part? You can take a beer or glass of wine with you while shopping, and many antique stores about the town also have their own wine bars to keep the good moods flowing. Fredericksburg’s open container laws allow for beer and wine to be carried from store to store, which can make antique shopping a lot more bearable for the bored husbands out there.
So the next time you are scratching your head over what you are going to do this weekend, take a scenic drive through the Texas Hill Country and visit this vibrant town. If not for the wonderful German culture, then for the world-class shopping visitors get to experience on famed Main Street. It could be one of your favorite Lake Travis Lifestyle day trips.
