Get ready to experience the magic of Christmas in Texas! From dazzling light displays to festive parades, the Lone Star State offers a wide array of holiday events that will fill you with joy and wonder. Texas boasts over 3 million holiday lights in some of its most enchanting Christmas towns, creating a winter wonderland that’s uniquely Texan.
Picture yourself strolling along the San Antonio Riverwalk, where twinkling lights reflect off the water, creating a mesmerizing scene. Or imagine sipping hot chocolate as you explore the German-inspired markets of Fredericksburg, where the aroma of freshly baked cookies fills the air.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, romantic getaways, or festive shopping experiences, Texas has something special in store for you this holiday season. From the Hill Country Wine Affair to the thrilling light shows at theme parks, you’ll find countless ways to celebrate and make lasting memories.
Grapevine’s Christmas Capital Of Texas
Get ready for a magical holiday experience in Grapevine, Texas! This charming city transforms into the Christmas Capital of Texas each year, offering over 1,400 festive events in just 40 days.
You’ll be dazzled by millions of twinkling lights and larger-than-life decorations throughout the city. Snap photos with animated characters and enjoy countless picture-perfect moments with your loved ones.
One of the most enchanting attractions is the North Pole Express. This magical train ride takes you on a journey to Santa’s workshop, complete with hot chocolate and Christmas carols.
Here are some must-see events in Grapevine:
- Christmas parades
- Holiday wine tastings
- Live nativity scenes
- Ice sculptures
- Festive theater shows
Your family will love exploring the quaint shops along Main Street, all decked out in holiday cheer. Don’t miss the chance to meet Santa and share your Christmas wishes!
Grapevine’s holiday magic has earned it recognition as the Best Christmas Town by Newsweek. With so much to see and do, you’ll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
Plan your visit to Grapevine soon and experience the joy of the Christmas Capital of Texas for yourself!
Santa’s Wonderland
Get ready for a magical Christmas experience at Santa’s Wonderland in College Station, Texas! This festive attraction is the South’s largest Christmas park and runs from mid-November through December 30th.
You’ll be dazzled by millions of twinkling lights as you enter this winter wonderland. Bundle up and enjoy real Texas snow and ice – a rare treat in the Lone Star State!
Take a cozy family hayride or a romantic horse-drawn carriage tour through the sparkling displays. Live entertainment will keep you in the holiday spirit all night long.
Don’t forget to snap a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus! It’s the perfect holiday memento to treasure for years to come.
Here are some must-try activities at Santa’s Wonderland:
- Ice skating
- Shopping for unique gifts
- Enjoying festive food and drinks
- Watching nightly shows
Santa’s Wonderland truly brings the North Pole to Texas. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a Christmas movie as you wander through this enchanting park.
Plan your visit soon! This beloved attraction draws visitors from all over Texas and beyond. It’s a holiday tradition you won’t want to miss.
Dickens On The Strand
Get ready for a magical trip back in time at Dickens on The Strand in Galveston, Texas! This festive event brings Victorian-era London to life each December.
You’ll be enchanted by the sights and sounds of 19th-century Christmas cheer. Strolling carolers, roving musicians, and costumed performers fill the streets with holiday spirit.
Don’t miss the parades! They’re a highlight of the festival, featuring elaborate costumes and joyful music.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Live entertainment on multiple stages
- Victorian-inspired crafts and food
- Costumed vendors selling unique wares
- Family-friendly activities like Tiny Tim’s Play Land
The event typically takes place the first weekend in December. In 2024, it’s scheduled for December 6-8.
Want to fully immerse yourself? Consider dressing up in Victorian-era attire! Many visitors embrace the spirit by donning period costumes.
While in Galveston, you might also enjoy the Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens. It’s another dazzling holiday attraction that complements the Dickens experience perfectly.
Dickens on The Strand is a beloved Texas tradition that brings history to life. You’ll create lasting memories as you step into a world of Victorian holiday cheer.
Christmas At The Gaylord Texan
Get ready for a magical holiday experience at the Gaylord Texan Resort in Grapevine! This Texas-sized celebration runs from November 15, 2024 to January 5, 2025.
You’ll be dazzled by the resort’s transformation into a winter wonderland. Sparkling lights, festive decorations, and holiday cheer fill every corner of the 125-acre property.
The star attraction is ICE!, a frozen wonderland carved from over 2 million pounds of ice. You can:
- Slide down ice slides
- Walk through colorful ice tunnels
- Snap selfies with 12-foot-tall ice sculptures
Don’t miss the Lone Star Christmas festivities. You’ll find a wide range of holiday activities for all ages:
- Ice skating
- Snow tubing
- Photos with Santa
- Christmas light shows
Warm up with festive treats and holiday-themed meals at the resort’s restaurants. You can even join special events like gingerbread decorating classes.
Remember to bundle up for ICE! The temperature inside is a chilly 9 degrees Fahrenheit. The Gaylord Texan provides warm parkas, but bring your own gloves and closed-toe shoes.
Book your tickets early to secure your spot in this unforgettable Christmas extravaganza. It’s the perfect way to create lasting holiday memories with your loved ones in Texas!
Mozart’s Festival Of Lights
Get ready to experience a dazzling holiday tradition in Austin! Mozart’s Festival of Lights is back for its fourth decade, bringing joy and wonder to the shores of Lake Austin.
This enchanting event runs from November 9, 2024, to January 4, 2025. You can enjoy the festive atmosphere nightly from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM at Mozart’s Coffee Roasters.
What can you expect? A breathtaking display of twinkling lights synchronized to holiday music. The show repeats hourly, so you won’t miss out on the magic.
New for 2024:
- Expanded time block format
- General admission tickets for just $5
- Kids under 11 enter free
Want a unique view? Try the water cruise option. Glide through an illuminated tunnel and see the lights from the lake. Each cruise includes:
- Unlimited hot chocolate
- Option to pre-order snacks
- Three departures every hour
- $300 for up to 10 passengers
Don’t forget to grab a cup of Mozart’s famous coffee or hot chocolate while you’re there. It’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly Texas evening.
