Christmas in TexasAuthorscurlyadventures
DestinationsTexasItinerary

San Antonio

San Antonio River Walk
There's nothing like strolling under a canopy of twinkling lights at the San Antonio River Walk. Every Christmas season, the River Walk lights up with over 100,000 sparkling lights, creating the most festive atmosphere. This is a free display but you will have to pay for downtown parking. Especially on the weekends expect it to be packed.
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Old West Christmas Light Fest
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the festive charm of the Old West Christmas Light Fest in Boerne, TX. The Enchanted Springs Ranch transforms into a holiday wonderland! Enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities, including: • Laser Tag: Play amidst dazzling light displays (extra cost). *» Mechanical Bull: Test your rodeo skills (extra cost). 6 Photos with Santa: Snap pics with Santa every night. / Live Music: Enjoy nightly holiday performances. & S'mores Roasting: Cozy up by the fire with tasty treats. 8 Food Trucks: Grab holiday snacks and festive drinks. 6a Face Painting: Free festive face painting for kids. * Petting Zoo: Meet and greet adorable animals. • Kids' Scavenger Hunt: A fun activity for little ones.
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Crumbling Castle Lights
Bringing over 30 acres of glowing forests, fairy-tale vibes, and dazzling light displays Drive-Thru Fun: Throw on your comfiest PJs and cruise through tunnels of lights, dragon sculptures, and gnome villages. Whimsical Scenes: Spot enchanting characters and storybook settings along the way. If Holiday Jams: Roll the windows down and enjoy the festive tunes that'll get you in the spirit.
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Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium
& Family Friendly HUGE Light Display- Multiple TX Cities It has MILLIONS of lights to get you in the holiday mood The Light Park! Your ticket includes anyone in the car + 🐶 your furry friends! You can also purchase items like electric lemonade, movie popcorn, and candy for a full of experience!
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1 Retama Pkwy
Pet & Family Friendly HUGE Light Display- Multiple TX Cities It has MILLIONS of lights to get you in the holiday mood The Light Park! Your ticket includes anyone in the car + 🐶 your furry friends! You can also purchase items like electric lemonade, movie popcorn, and candy for a full of experience!
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East Texas

Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot
You step aboard the vintage train, you instantly become a part of the classic Christmas tale. Wrapped in the cozy warmth of the train cabin, expect to be greeted by a hot cup of cocoa as you embark on your journey to the North Pole. The mere sound of the train chugging along the tracks, coupled with the sight of the snow-capped landscapes outside, is a spectacle to behold. Throughout the ride, passengers are treated to a live reading of Chris Van Allsburg’s Polar Express, with carols and jovial cheer filling the air. It’s a very kid centered activity but we still loved the nostalgia as adults!
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TX Hill Country

Main Street Bethlehem
The First Baptist Church hosts this impressive recreation of ancient Bethlehem. It is complete with a bustling marketplace, resident artisans, live animals, and, of course, the revered nativity scene. As you wander down the lamp-lit streets, you’ll find blacksmiths and bakers, merchants and weavers, all donned in biblical-era attire and fully immersed in their roles. It’s an interactive experience that both educates and charms visitors of all ages. You might even spot a shepherd guiding his flock or the elusive Wise Men on their pilgrimage. Main Street Bethlehem Schedule for 2025 (FREE): December 5, 6, 7 and 12, 13, 14, 2025, from 6 PM to 9 PM
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Marble Falls Walkway of Lights
Marble Falls goes all out for the holidays! Sparkling lights, festive treats, and ice skating under the stars-it's holiday heaven. Winter Ice Skating Rink: Glide at the Winter Ice Skating Rink, open nightly Walkway of Lights: Over 2 million lights and 350+ sculptures make this free display a must-see! Ms. Lollipop Parties: A sweet stop for holiday treats and unique gifts, with employees decked out in festive attire! Light Up Parade: Don't miss this illuminated parade date TBD
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Lakeside Park
Bumper Cars on ice is definitely one of the coolest experiences! It’s on certain weekends and you have to book online ahead of time. It’s pretty popular and does sell out.
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DFW

Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center
Gaylord Texas is the ultimate holiday hotel in Texas! You Free Holiday Light Show and Santa sightings & stilt walkers Snow tubing & snowball throwing • ICE! featuring Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Ice skating fun Holiday cocktails And more!! Overnight guests get Free holiday movies Letters to Santa Early access to the Christmas Village
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Grapevine Towne Center
Completely different vibe at night!
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Town Square
Grapevine is known as the Christmas Capital of Texas and once you visit the downtown it’s easy to see why! Grapevine’s charming Main Street is transformed into a Christmas card that comes to life. It’s brimming with twinkling lights and oversized decorations. Note: This place gets PACKED. You’ll get less crowds on weekdays but can still expect it to be busy
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Galleria Dallas
Galleria Dallas lights up the season with the largest indoor Christmas tree and a dazzling free holiday celebration! Watch as fireworks sparkle above while ice skaters perform a stunning show on the rink below.
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The Adolphus, Autograph Collection
The Adolphus is like the adult version of a Christmas hotel with all different types of things like Indulge in the warmth the hot cocoa lounge, where rich cocoa meets festive flavors. Elevate your holiday experience with a touch of elegance with some fancy high tea and tasty treats. Cozy up in the rooftop winter yurts with plush blankets, providing the perfect setting for adorable moments.
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The Village Dallas
If you're looking for the ultimate holiday experience in Dallas the Village has gone all out with A Very Merry Village! Think floor-to-ceiling festive decor, over 200K ornaments, and delicious seasonal sips and bites. You have to try their: Grinch Juice (in a Christmas tree glass!) Salted Caramel Espresso Martini Rudolph-themed grilled cheese & tomato soup
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Miracle On 134th Street
Miracle on 134th St is an hour north of Dallas and it is simply a must do holiday activity. Make sure to check it out before Santa has to head out the 24th! You can enjoy your time by: Stopping at their hot cocoa station Interacting with the elves as they make toys Taking pictures with Mr & Mrs. Claus Eating smores with your loved ones Riding on the Reindeer Railroad
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Downtown Plano
FREE Snow Slides in Plano, TX On the first weekend of December from 4 to 9 pm there will be a festive extravaganza in Downtown Plano where you can: Listen to Dickens carolers Slide down a snowy hill Watch holiday performances Take pictures with Santa Shop at the Children's Entrepreneur Market And more!
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Campo Verde
Each year, this festive spot transforms into a Christmas wonderland with 50+ decorated trees, 500,000 twinkling lights, and a 260-ft train track that wraps through the restaurant. Perfect for soaking in the holiday cheer, snapping photos, and sipping your favorite drink under the glow of the lights.
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Hurricane Harbor Arlington
Pet & Family Friendly HUGE Light Display- Multiple TX Cities It has MILLIONS of lights to get you in the holiday mood The Light Park! Your ticket includes anyone in the car + 🐶 your furry friends! You can also purchase items like electric lemonade, movie popcorn, and candy for a full of experience!
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Heritage Farmstead Museum
Heritage Farmstead Museum in Plano TX transforms into a world with 2 million lights and enchanting holiday displays along a quarter-mile trail. There is a a towering 20-foot Christmas tree and tons of animated light displays. You can also enjoy delicious treats like hot cocoa, donuts, and DIY s’mores!
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Decorator's Warehouse
The largest Christmas store in Texas Decorator’s Warehouse is a holiday wonderland filled with endless Christmas inspiration — both in-store and online. From sparkling ornaments and festive ribbons to elegant florals and sprays, you’ll find everything to create your dream holiday look. Want a perfectly styled tree? Their designer-crafted bundles make it easier than ever to decorate with style and joy.
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Little Elm Park
Pet & Family Friendly HUGE Light Display- Multiple TX Cities The Light Park It has MILLIONS of lights to get you in the holiday mood! Your ticket includes anyone in the car + 🐶 your furry friends! You can also purchase items like electric lemonade, movie popcorn, and candy for a full of experience!
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Austin

Miracle on 5th Street
Miracle on 5th Street at The Eleanor has always gone all out with their holiday decor, and this year is no exception! Stepping inside feels like walking into a festive wonderland-think over-the-top decorations and creative cocktails like a unicorn & marshmallow drink served in the cutest unicorn cup. It can get pretty packed, so reservations are the way to go. Drinks are on the pricier side, but trust me, the atmosphere makes it 100% worth it for a magical night out.
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Zilker Metropolitan Park
The Trail of Lights is back at Zilker Park! Stroll through dazzling displays, enjoy festive activities, savor local eats, and soak up the holiday magic. Whether it’s your first visit or a yearly tradition, celebrate the season from December 10–23, 2025.
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Lala's Little Nugget
Step into Christmas all year long at Lala’s Little Nugget, an Austin favorite since 1972. Decked out with twinkling lights, vintage Elvis memorabilia, and a retro jukebox spinning timeless tunes, this cozy bar keeps the holiday spirit alive no matter the season. Grab a drink, shoot some pool, and bask in the nostalgic magic.
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Wonder Bar
All dressed up in over-the-top holiday décor and serving cocktails that taste like pure festive magic, this spot is made for sipping, snapping pics, and celebrating with friends. 🎄 Think giant ornaments, glowing lights, and playful photo ops 🍸 Try crowd favorites like the “Disco Bull” or “Wonder Water” 🏠 Book a private event in one of their themed rooms—disco, space, or clouds
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Austin Motel
If you’re looking for something different, here’s why you need to go: Austin Motel ✨ Rainbow Decor: A courtyard filled with colorful Christmas trees. Entry is FREE! 🍹 Seasonal Drinks: Try holiday-themed beverages like the famous shotskis 🔥 Cozy Atmosphere: Relax by the fire in charming ski chalets
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Dell Diamond Parking
Pet & Family Friendly HUGE Light Display- Multiple TX Cities It has MILLIONS of lights to get you in the holiday mood The Light Park! Your ticket includes anyone in the car + 🐶 your furry friends! You can also purchase items like electric lemonade, movie popcorn, and candy for a full of experience!
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Nickel City
Here's why it's a must-visit: 🍸 Unique Drinks: Enjoy holiday-themed tiki cocktails like the "Parrot in a Pear Tree" and "Rum Rum Rudolph." 🎅 Festive Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in a vibrant setting adorned with over-the-top holiday and island décor. 🎁 Souvenir Glassware: Take home themed glassware, with a portion of proceeds benefiting the Seva Foundation. 🎉 Holiday Parties: From themed parties to live DJs, there’s always something happening!
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Circuit of the Americas
Peppermint Parkway is the ultimate holiday experience — festive, family-friendly, and packed with fun for all ages! Here, you can: 🎄 Cruise through dazzling interactive light displays ❄️ Meet your favorite holiday characters 🏎️ Join a go-kart race 🍫 Indulge in delicious seasonal treats 🦮 Snap a family photo with Santa (pups included!) 🏁 Drive your own car on the official racing track 🎢 Ride exciting roller coasters 🐇 Visit the adorable petting zoo
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Fairmont Austin
For the ultimate holiday vibe, spent an evening at the Fairmont Austin’s Ugly Sweater Pop-Up Bar at Rules & Regs — and it was pure festive fun! The light show synced to music was such a vibe, and the cozy drinks (hello, Penguin & Penguin!) paired perfectly with their chocolate fondue and baked brie.
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Gibson Street Bar
A winter wonderland with dazzling lights, merry cocktails, and the perfect photo spots. There’s plenty of space when this place gets packed with their Christmas tent
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Small Town Itineraries

The Martin & Frances Lehnis Railroad Museum
Brownwood transforms into a holiday wonderland, and as their ambassador, I'm here to share all the festive fun you need to experience at some point! So It all starts with their Lighted Christmas Parade Mini train rides with Santa at the Lhenis railroad museum Magical glasses and Christmas shakes at Runaway Train Café For adventure, zipline under the stars Heart of Texas Baptist Camp Cozy up with books and puppy snuggles Intermission Bookshop Discover 3D-printed treasures Rocking Oak Woodworks Enjoy craft beer under the stars Pioneer Taphouse Treat yourself to holiday pastries from Baked Artisan Goods Shop some last minutes gifts at Shaws Marketplace
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Dallas

Dallas Silk Art
With the holidays around the corner, Dallas Silk Art invites you to create your own Christmas ornaments through the art of water marbling! Design colorful, one-of-a-kind pieces and bring a personal touch to your holiday décor. Why you’ll love it: 🎨 Unique Souvenirs: Craft and take home your own hand-painted ornaments. 🎅 Festive Fun: A joyful hands-on experience to share with family or friends this season.
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Commerce Street
Kick off the holiday season at one of Dallas’ biggest celebrations — the Dallas Holiday Parade! 📅 Saturday, December 6, 2025 📍The parade route begins at Commerce and Houston streets. 🎉 Step off begins at 8:30 AM —
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Tianyu Lights Festival Dallas
From November 7, 2025, to January 18, 2026, step into a world of wonder at Koda’s Adventure to the Magical Ocean at the Texas Trust CU Theatre Festival Grounds in Dallas. Stroll through a glowing dreamscape and experience Koda’s story come to life through dazzling light displays and luminous art installations.
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Riders Field
Pet & Family Friendly HUGE Light Display- Multiple TX Cities The Light Park It has MILLIONS of lights to get you in the holiday mood! Your ticket includes anyone in the car + 🐶 your furry friends! You can also purchase items like electric lemonade, movie popcorn, and candy for a full of experience!
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The Henry
This holiday-themed pop-up rooftop bar in Dallas with a special holiday menu. You’re welcomed with a red carpet and beautifully decked out holiday decor The Henry Rooftop Dallas. Located on the rooftop of The Henry Restaurant
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Houston

Typhoon Texas Waterpark Houston
It has MILLIONS of lights to get you in the holiday mood The Light Park! Your ticket includes anyone in the car + 🐶 your furry friends! You can also purchase items like electric lemonade, movie popcorn, and candy for a full of experience!
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Sam Houston Race Park
Pet & Family Friendly HUGE Light Display- Multiple TX Cities The Light Park It has MILLIONS of lights to get you in the holiday mood! Your ticket includes anyone in the car + 🐶 your furry friends! You can also purchase items like electric lemonade, movie popcorn, and candy for a full of experience!
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Hurricane Harbor Splashtown
Pet & Family Friendly HUGE Light Display- Multiple TX Cities The Light Park It has MILLIONS of lights to get you in the holiday mood! Your ticket includes anyone in the car + 🐶 your furry friends! You can also purchase items like electric lemonade, movie popcorn, and candy for a full of experience!
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May not happen this year - will update

Trip Highlight
If you’re looking for the small town to escape your corporate job and star in your own Hallmark movie, Boerne TX is that town! Filled with the cutest small town vibe, cozy coffee shops, and holiday activities, it’s the perfect holiday weekend getaway (or save money by visiting on the weekdays)!
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