Tomball German Christmas Market, December 13-15, 2024

Ms. German fest

Ms. German Fest

Ms. German Fest Preliminary Voting

Review the Ms. Geman Fest applications below and enter your top three choices to advance to the final round of voting for the title of Ms. German Fest.

Ashley Aber

What is your favorite part of the festival?

I love the opportunity to get together with friends and family! We typically make it out to both festivals and always enjoy the vendors, rides, entertainment, and food!

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

More space — if possible!

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

The food! We love to cook authentic German food at home, so it is always a blast to feel fully immersed in the culture!

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I would love the opportunity to be involved in the community and directly with the festival! I have both Polish and German heritage and it would be a blessing to hold the title of Ms. German Fest!

Do you speak German?

Reed Adair

What is your favorite part of the festival?

Food and music

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

Kids area

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

Traditions

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

Represent my heritage and educate other teens on culture and traditions and FUN

Do you speak German?

Yes

Kristen Bredehoeft

What is your favorite part of the festival?

Locals coming together to celebrate the German heritage and the settlers that came to this area in the late 1800’s

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

Cooler weather! actually I wouldn’t change anything.

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

Being German, I have to say that my favorite thing about the German culture is the beer & food!

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

To show my kids to be proud of who we are and why we celebrate our heritage. And to welcome others to learn more about the German culture!

Do you speak German?

Yes

Lilyann Carter

What is your favorite part of the festival?

Spending time with friends and family enjoying the festivities, eating German food, hearing German music and being able to buy novelties that remind me of my heritage, so…. Everything!

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

More German themed booths, food and novelties and more information on the German roots of Tomball.

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

All the folklore and history behind the actual culture itself.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

German blood runs through My veins. Even though I was born and raised in Texas, I am proud of my heritage. My Great-Grandmother (Nana) was from Mindleheim, Germany, which I hope to visit one day. Unfortunately she is no longer with us, but I know she would be proud (smiling all the way from Heaven!), and I would be honored to win the title of Ms. Germanfest!

Do you speak German?

Leah Couch

What is your favorite part of the festival?

The feeling of embracing a culture while being a part of a community

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

Foot Traffic trouble shooting. Sometimes it can get very congested so maybe a slightly different layout of the vendors.

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

That everyone is just here to have a good time and sing and dance and meet new people.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I have attended multiple Tomball German festivals and love sharing the joy of the culture and tradition and want to have a bigger role in that by being Ms. Germanfest

Do you speak German?

Jasmin Doval

What is your favorite part of the festival?

The live music and vendors with hand made crafts

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

Honestly I wouldn’t want to change anything about the festival. There is rich culture all around and it is always a pleasant experience

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

What I like about German culture is how inviting they’re to people who would like more knowledge about the German culture, I learn new things every time I visit the German fest

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I would like to be Ms. German Fest because I want to represent leadership and kindness for the German culture

Do you speak German?

Laura Gonzales

What is your favorite part of the festival?

The music

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

Larger grounds, always free kids activity, make more wheel chair accessible

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

I’m German polish Czech and Mexican and my favorite part was being raised up by my braided hair German great grama. My boyfriend is extra German and we love to love each other, we look on the bright side of life and yes have sauerkraut in the pantry. I come from one of Tomball’s first thirteen founding families (Scherer) and take a bunch of pride callin my great aunt Ella Goodson my kin. I claim all my cooking skills from my German side!

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

It’s way out of my wheelhouse and sounded like fun. I would love to participate and really love the heritage costume!! I grew up singing and can barely yodel lol! So I think I could do it.

Do you speak German?

Yes

Mycayla Greer

What is your favorite part of the festival?

I love the food, people, and dancing!

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

I would love more authentic German vendors.

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

I love how industrious and intellectual German’s are. The food is amazing year round!

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I come from a long line of German’s. I love how Tomball, a small town, embraces the culture year round and showcases the unique qualities of German’s. I love people, unity and celebrating.

Do you speak German?

Dixie Hannsz

What is your favorite part of the festival?

The food and the culture I get to experience

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

None ! It’s such a fun experience already and I fell like it get better every time !

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

The music !! It’s amazing to see everyone watching the bands play and people dancing to the music.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I have gone to the German Fest since I was born and it’s a huge part of my life! It would be an amazing opportunity to be Ms German Fest while learning more about my heritage.

Do you speak German?

Winter Hollenbeck

What is your favorite part of the festival?

I love getting a boot of beer, schnitzel with applesauce, the shopping and the dance hall!

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

It would be nice to have more areas for seating. I know thats hard with such limited space. And in the hotter months, misters!

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

I have been to Munich Germany, i love how inviting they are. They want to make sure you are satisfied/happy. People dont step on each others toes. Things are passed down from generation to generation. As in, traditions, trades and celebrations.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I go every year. It would be awesome to be recognized

Do you speak German?

Jessica Jones

What is your favorite part of the festival?

The entire thing. Easy parking. Easy to navigate. The people are fantastic. Amazing food and beer.

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

Maybe more fans during the hot months?

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

Beer

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

Because who wouldn’t want to be ms. German Fest!

Do you speak German?

Aaron Kelly

What is your favorite part of the festival?

I love the sense of community. It’s so fun to see everyone come together and have a great time.

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

More German food. I feel like there weren’t a ton of options last time

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

I like that they value order and organization. I am an extremely punctual person and really respect their values.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I want to represent Tomball in the best way possible. I love this town and the people in it.

Do you speak German?

Yes

Jillian Kimball

What is your favorite part of the festival?

My absolute favorite part of the Tomball German festival is spending my time with my family while experiencing the amazing culture, food, and shops that are hosted by my hometown, Tomball.

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

Each year, the nostalgia of coming to the German Fest with my family cannot be beat. I love how the German fest still has that traditional feel to it and I wouldn’t change that heartwarming feeling for the world.

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

I love that my family roots are associated with the German culture and you can’t beat a good bratwurst!

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I’ve always been a local to Tomball and I feel as though I should return the hometown, heartwarming, and joyous feelings to the community of Tomball through my positive attitude and outgoing kindness.

Do you speak German?

Courtney Rose Kline

What is your favorite part of the festival?

The folk dancers! They pour so much love and time into creating these dances that youd otherwise, only see at festivals in Germany

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

Ideally, adding another block to the festival area would be amazing, due to foot traffic- the festival is a huge deal, after all. Additionally, it would also be amazing to bring more variety of German music to the festival! Germany is home to some of the most beautiful music on earth, and there are styles from there that are beloved by Germans and Americans alike that I could see fitting the Festival’s atmosphere, while also introducing people to something they will love and enjoy.

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

I adore German music. German musicians have pioneered so many generes, and written songs that have changed people’s lives for the better. From Mozart writing the iconic “Die Zauberflaute” to modern groups like Eizenfunk writing fast paced electro beats about playing the arcade game, “Pong”, Germany is the birthplace of genere-defining, iconic music. Personally, ive been a huge fan of the band “Faun” for years, with their unique style of folk that utilizes viking-era and renaissance instruments.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

As someone who treasures the German culture and heritage, the festival is the highlight of the year. I’ve been going since I was little, and it’s given me a place near home where I can interact with my German heritage- from wearing my dirndl collection to talking about history and art, to being able to practice speaking German in a non-judgmental environment. To be able to represent the festival as Ms. German Fest would be such an honor!

Do you speak German?

Anne-Marie Krachler

What is your favorite part of the festival?

The food and people watching.

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

An Oktoberfest weekend one year.

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

It’s home just like Austria to some of the most fantastic castles.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I’m actually Austrian by birth and have been living in Houston as a permanent resident for the last 5 yrs. I’m originally from a small town south of Vienna called Bad Fischau-Brunn.

To promote world peace, equality, healthier living standards (I hold a PhD in infectious dieseases) and the encouragement of better punctuality.

Do you speak German?

Yes

Veronica LaBonte

What is your favorite part of the festival?

I always like to visit the homemade root beer stand a refill my cup! I also really enjoy learning more about my culture.

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

I don’t think it needs any changes.

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

Of course, I love the food and the beer! But something I learned about German culture from my German family is body positivity. Of course, people are not walking around Germany stark naked, but it is not uncommon to see a neighbor sunbathing naked. Mothers even often feed their children openly. None of these things are seen as sexual but as just a simple part of the culture.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I want to be Ms. German Fest because I am very proud of my German Heritage. My grandma Ursula died in 2013 and I have not really gotten to celebrate my culture much since then, other than attending the German Festival. This is something I could do to honor her memory.

Do you speak German?

Randi Lanum

What is your favorite part of the festival?

I love the culture and colors! The food is amazing as well as the atmosphere! I love to see people of all so many different walks of life come together and have fun!

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

I love the festival as it is! I wish it could be bigger!

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

I love that there is such an emphasis on quality and loyalty. Germany is full of people with amazing pride for their country but also the knowledge of so many other cultures and ways of living. With the proximity to other countries they have a much more humble world view in my opinion. Germans work to live instead of living to work. They take life as it should be, enjoying the moment. They are passionate and honest. It might come across as abrupt to an American but they tell it like it is. No sugar coating or long drawn out responses.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I have loved this festival since moving to Tomball. It has been amazing to see the city relax and have fun together. It is such a beautiful mix of people and dogs I love meeting new people and trying new things! I am of German descent as well! I would just love this opportunity!

Do you speak German?

Yes

Emily Lech

What is your favorite part of the festival?

Parade

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

Nothing

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

Music

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

Joy of sharing happiness!

Do you speak German?

Emily Lites

What is your favorite part of the festival?

Seeing people dressed up in costumes

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

None

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

The food

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I’ve lived in Tomball my whole life and going to the German festival just bring me so much joy. And my great grandfather is czechoslovakian and it would be amazing for him to get to see me as Ms. German fest.

Do you speak German?

Ashley Medina

What is your favorite part of the festival?

I love the carnival rides and food

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

Nothing so perfect to spend with the family

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

I love the dances they have

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I would love to be ms. German fest because I always go to the German fest and ride all the rides and take my family.

Do you speak German?

Cheyenne Patton

What is your favorite part of the festival?

The food

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

Add more cultural aspects

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

How each region has variations of the food, clothing and language

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I am of German descent and would love to be able to represent my family.

Do you speak German?

Jessica Phlegar

What is your favorite part of the festival?

Great beer and sausage, watching my kids have fun

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

More people in the parade, maybe a costume contest or the high school drum line

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

Food and friendship! I love the quality meats and ingredients for beer, sausage, and i even have my own special beer bread recipe i make every Thanksgiving

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

As a mom i want to show my kids to be proud of their heritage. The last 2 years they have represented Germany in the school International Festival and i would be honored to show them moms can represent too!

Do you speak German?

Faith Riedinger

What is your favorite part of the festival?

I love the food and looking at all the crafts. The first year we attended, we bought a special Christmas ornament for our tree.

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

I wish there were even more cultural performances such as German music and dance performances.

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

I really love the language. I have been taking German classes for three years. I achieved the Goethe A1 certificate and attend a German conversation group each Saturday. It is attended by Germans and Americans and I enjoy the cultural exchange.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

The opportunity to represent the Houston area as Ms. German and take part in the festivities would be a way to honor the German ancestors on both sides of my family.

Do you speak German?

Yes

Alexandria Rogers

What is your favorite part of the festival?

My favorite part of the festival is the overall culture it brings to the city! Delicious German foods, beautiful dance and song, and of course the opportunity for our town to showcase its rich heritage to those who may have never experienced German culture before.

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

The festival offers a little something for everyone! Adding festivities like a pirogi making demonstration, hands on activities like craft time for the kids, or a traditional German fare cook off could make the festival even more unique!

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

One thing I love about German culture is the food and the atmosphere that comes along with it. The German custom of dining as strangers and leaving as friends is something everyone should experience.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

Ms. German Fest to me represents the spirit of the German festival by being an approachable ambassador of German culture. I want to be Ms. German Fest and share my love of the festival with others!

Do you speak German?

Morgan Ruysenaars

What is your favorite part of the festival?

The connection of culture through music, dancing, and food. I also enjoy the overall experience, atmosphere, and ambiance from every participant and vendor.

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

I would love to see an expansion of the grounds, the festival is continuing to grow and it can sometimes get really packed with people. Spreading out the vendors to create more space for shoppers and overall customers would allow for more room and comfort.

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

I recently took a trip to Germany and I love the connection of history and modern day architecture. Germany never forgets their original roots and heritage and they take pride with who they are. They also celebrate how much they have grown and love to embrace both sides of history.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I want to be Ms. German Fest because my ancestors were German and I would love to be an ambassador for the festival. I want to help spread the German culture and my love for their history for others to learn and enjoy.

Do you speak German?

Mackenzie Scherer

What is your favorite part of the festival?

The community all coming together and spending time together

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

There is no changes I can think of.

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

On my recent trip to Germany something I noticed and loved about the culture is how much respect there is for other people, we were treated so nicely and had a few locals take time out of their days to give us a tour or show us historical things and explain the history.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I would love to represent our wonderful town that I am so thankful to live in while also represent my personal heritage being part German.

Do you speak German?

Haley Schryer

What is your favorite part of the festival?

The music, food and togetherness

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

More authentic food and item vendors than there are now. Maybe a beer tasting course where you can sample and learn about different German beers and have a good pairing with it.

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

The general togetherness that you feel being able to sit down with a stranger and share a drink or meal with them and get to know them.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

To bring joy to people and share the love of Tomball and the festival

Do you speak German?

Rylan Smith

What is your favorite part of the festival?

ive never been but probably seeing the people

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

none?

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

the language and the clothing

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

My mother’s family is from Germany and I would like to represent that part of my heritage.

Do you speak German?

Sullysabel Torres

What is your favorite part of the festival?

Everything! I go with my family and friends twice per year the 3 days !

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

I would love to see more diversity, I know if we promote the festival more we could get more and more people to attend!

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

Cause I love the festival I’ve been living in Tomball since I was little and I want people to see the diversity!

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I was stationed in Germany, I love the people, I love the events and culture. I think it would be amazing to represent a Texas German Festival and help share such an amazing country/culture/heritage!

Do you speak German?

Danielle Weibust

What is your favorite part of the festival?

Shopping the booths with my family

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

More love music

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

My family has visited Germany at different times over the years and collected steins. They are so pretty.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I have always enjoyed the festival. It always puts a smile on my face and I’d love to be involved.

Do you speak German?

Chloe Williams

What is your favorite part of the festival?

My favorite part of the festival is the food, music, and dancing.

What changes, if any, would you like to see made to the festival?

I would like to see more dancing, because it is really cool

What is one thing you like about the German culture?

They have great work ethic, and have amazing songs and dances.

Why do you want to be Ms. German Fest?

I want to take this leadership job for the experience, and want to immerse myself in the German culture.

Do you speak German?

Yes