Now that the annual Thanksgiving feast has come and gone and it's officially December, we can shift our focus to the all-important holiday of Christmas that is fast approaching. Even though much of our state never really gets the memo that winter is upon us, we definitely know how to celebrate. When you aren't busy decorating the tree or stringing up lights outside this season, be sure to check out the unforgettable holiday festivities found in some of the best Christmas towns in Texas.
1. Galveston
This coastal town is home to several holiday events you won't want to miss. Pop over to the Galveston Railroad Museum for a memorable holiday-themed outing, or check out Moody Gardens for a festive family-friendly day.
For a list of events, check out Galveston's website.
2. Jefferson
Pretty much everywhere you look in Jefferson is all decked out for the holidays. Hop aboard the Christmas Express Train, pop in and out of decorated antique shops and boutiques, and as always, keep an eye out for Santa. You never know when he'll show up!
For a list of events, check out Jefferson's website.
3. Cleburne
There's no shortage of festivities in this town, that's for sure! From parades to 11 acres of over 3 million Christmas lights to pictures with Santa and pony rides for the little ones, Whistle Stop Christmas is definitely worth a visit.
For more information, visit the Whistle Stop Christmas website.
4. Marshall
The Wonderland of Lights Extravaganza in Marshall, Texas rivals any other light display in the country with over 10 million lights, including illumination of the entire town courthouse. A variety of events take place here through December 31, including a lighted parade, 5K Jingle Bell run, Santa's Workshop & Mrs. Claus's Kitchen and carriage/train rides for the kids, and an outdoor ice skating rink.
The Marshall website has all the details to help plan your visit.
5. Richmond
Every year, the George Ranch Historical Park in Richmond hosts a Campfire Christmas celebration. Here you can take a wagon ride through a farm boasting old-fashioned holiday decorations and hear carols and stories from the family who lives there. Afterward, sit around the campfire and share the season's blessings.
For more information, visit the George Ranch website.
6. Wimberley
Wimberley is home to the Holiday Trail of Lights, a spectacle that captures the spirit of the holiday season perfectly through December 31st. Walk through 8 acres of light displays with the warmth of the Yule Log that burns nightly. You can even roast marshmallows and hot dogs over a campfire! Nothing beats s'mores on a cold, winter night.
Wimberley's website has all the information you need.
7. College Station
Aggieland knows how Christmas is done. At Santa's Wonderland, you can experience a hayride tour through millions of lights, live music, an old western village with unique holiday gifts, visits with Santa, Christmas movies on a giant outdoor screen, snow machines and more.
For more information, visit their website.
8. Grapevine
Grapevine has been appropriately dubbed the Christmas capital of Texas. Gaylord Texan Resort holds a variety of events including an indoor winter wonderland in the form of an ice sculpture maze featuring popular holiday characters and huge ice slides. The city also has a synchronized light show running through January 3rd where you can sing along with a gigantic Christmas tree! And as if that isn't enough, Great Wolf Lodge is transformed into "Snowland" with an indoor heated waterpark and other holiday activities.
For details on all the events, visit Grapevine's website.
9. Grand Prairie
Grand Prairie's light display is a must-see holiday attraction, and it can be experienced from the comfort of your car! Visitors drive down a 2-mile path lined with dazzling displays. Halfway through you'll find a holiday village with seasonal food, a gift shop, an indoor laser show, and an animated walk-through forest. The second half of the drive ends with the largest light tunnel in Texas!
You'll want to plan your visit to For more information, click Prairie Lights this holiday season.
10. San Antonio
Rounding out the list of best Christmas towns in Texas is none other than San Antonio. Everyone can agree that with twinkling lights high up in the trees lining the riverwalk and Santa accompanying gondola riders, this city captures the essence of Christmas perfectly.
For more information, visit the River Walk's website and plan a magical Christmas experience.
Christmas is yet another example of everything being bigger in Texas. What do you think are the best Christmas towns in Texas? Share in the comments below.
If you'd like to see even more of Wimberley's amazing Trail of Lights, check out this Youtube video from scotnet55:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vAmSMdGadL4#action=share
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