Fall is one of our favorite times of year in New Braunfels. The weather starts to cool down a bit, the air feels crisp, and the weekends are packed with more things to do than ever. That cooler weather brings with it some of the best annual festivals in the entire state.
From Wurstfest and Dia de los Muertos to the Comal Country Fair, Wassailfest, and local markets, this time of year in New Braunfels always feels like one big community celebration. It’s a season full of energy, tradition, and plenty of opportunities to make memories around town.
But as the crowds grow and the events roll on, it’s important to make sure your fun doesn’t take an unexpected turn.
Here are a few tips to help you stay safe while enjoying everything New Braunfels has to offer this season.
Sponsored by The Kyle Law Firm
This festival safety reminder is brought to you by The Kyle Law Firm, your trusted local advocates here in New Braunfels.
Even during the fun festival season, accidents and unexpected moments can happen. For more than 25 years, Matt Kyle and his team have helped Hill Country residents through some of life’s toughest challenges, from auto accidents and serious injuries to complex criminal defense cases.
As one of the area’s most respected law firms, The Kyle Law Firm combines board-certified expertise with genuine care for the community. If you or someone you love ever finds themselves in need of legal help, they’re right here in town, ready to stand by your side.
1. Plan Your Route Ahead of Time
Before heading downtown or to any major event, take a few minutes to check for road closures, parking restrictions, and detours. Festivals like Wurstfest, Dia de los Muertos, and others often close off streets around Main Plaza and the surrounding blocks, and that can catch visitors off guard if they’re not prepared. You can check the city’s website for announcements regarding street closures.
Knowing your route ahead of time not only saves you time and stress, it can also help you avoid getting stuck in post-event traffic when everyone’s leaving at once.
Don’t forget that downtown now has paid parking in many areas. It’s free for the first hour, and there are several public lots just a short walk from the plaza and river area. You can also take advantage of satellite parking options or rideshares to skip the search altogether.
If you’re coming from out of town, consider mapping a few backup parking spots or checking the event’s official page for shuttle info. A little planning goes a long way in making sure your night starts off (and ends) smoothly.
2. Choose a Sober Driver or Rideshare
New Braunfels festivals are known for their great food, live music, and festive atmosphere, and for many people, that includes enjoying a few drinks. But before you raise a stein at Wurstfest, make sure you’ve planned how you’re getting home safely.
Line up a designated driver, Uber, or Lyft before you head out. Rideshares get busy fast during major events, especially as crowds start to leave at closing time, so booking early can save you a long wait later.
It’s an easy, affordable way to keep everyone safe. The goal is to make memories, not mistakes, and the best nights always end with everyone home in one piece.
3. Stay Alert Behind the Wheel
Traffic around festival zones can get hectic, especially downtown and near the event grounds. Between cars circling for parking spots and festivalgoers crossing the streets, there’s a lot happening at once, and it only gets trickier after dark.
Take it slow, stay off your phone, and watch for crosswalks as well as people crossing mid-block. Many visitors are unfamiliar with the area or distracted by the festivities, so expect the unexpected. A few extra seconds of patience could make all the difference in preventing an accident and keeping the night safe for everyone.
If you’re leaving after an event, give yourself time for the crowds to clear before hitting the road. Keep headlights on, watch for pedestrians in dimly lit areas, and remember that a relaxed drive home is the best way to end a fun night out in New Braunfels.
4. Have a Meeting Point
If you’re going with friends or family, pick a clear meeting spot (like a stage, fountain, or food tent) in case you get separated. Cell service can get spotty during busy events, and having a pre-set landmark makes it easy to regroup without the stress.
5. Keep Essentials Close
Big events draw big crowds, and with so much going on, it’s easy to misplace things or set them down without thinking. Your best bet is to keep it simple by bringing just the essentials like your phone, ID, and a card. Leave valuables or bulky bags at home.
A small crossbody bag or fanny pack is perfect for navigating crowded festival areas, letting you keep your hands free for food, drinks, and photos. It also makes it easier to move through tight spaces and reduces the risk of losing something important.
If you’re planning to be out all day, consider bringing a portable charger and a little cash in case vendors or parking lots don’t accept cards.
Remember, you want to spend your day enjoying the festival, not worrying about your stuff.
Festival season is one of the best times to be in New Braunfels. It’s a chance to celebrate, connect, and soak up everything that makes our town so special.
A little preparation and awareness go a long way in making sure those good times stay that way. Plan ahead, look out for one another, and enjoy every bit of the season safely.