Texas is a state that knows how to celebrate the holiday season in style. From the German-inspired festivities in Fredericksburg to the grand light displays in Grapevine and College Station, these ten cities each offer a unique and magical holiday experience. Whether you’re seeking traditional Christmas markets, sparkling light displays, or unique celebrations, these top 10 festive Christmas cities in Texas are sure to make your holiday season merry and bright.
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1. Grapevine: The Christmas Capital of Texas
Known as the “Christmas Capital of Texas,” Grapevine goes all out for the holiday season with more than 1,400 events throughout November and December. Main Street is adorned with lights, and the entire town buzzes with festive activities. Don’t miss Grapevine’s North Pole Express, where children and adults alike can take a ride with Santa, or the Parade of Lights, which is the largest lighted Christmas parade in North Texas.
Must-Do Experience: Visit Nash Farm for an old-fashioned Victorian Christmas celebration, featuring wagon rides, historic crafts, and a cozy bonfire.
2. San Antonio: River Walk Holiday Lights
San Antonio is known for its enchanting River Walk, and during the holidays, the walk becomes a magical pathway lined with thousands of twinkling lights. The Holiday River Parade kicks off the season, and the area remains lit up until the New Year, creating a beautiful backdrop for boat rides, shopping, and dining. Visitors can also enjoy Fiesta de las Luminarias, where traditional luminaries light up the River Walk, adding a nostalgic touch to the season.
Must-Do Experience: Take a riverboat ride at night to experience the festive lights reflecting off the water and enjoy live music from carolers along the way.
3. Fredericksburg: A German-Style Christmas
With its strong German heritage, Fredericksburg offers a unique take on Christmas. The town square features a massive 26-foot-tall German Christmas Pyramid, and the Marktplatz is filled with holiday decorations and a seasonal ice rink. Stroll through the town’s boutique shops for unique holiday gifts, or visit the Christmas Wine Affair for a festive wine-tasting tour of the local wineries.
Must-Do Experience: Attend the Christmas Nights of Lights show at Marktplatz, where the town’s iconic tree is illuminated to music, creating a magical holiday atmosphere.
4. Galveston: Dickens on the Strand
Step back in time with Galveston’s Dickens on the Strand festival, held every December. This historic event transforms downtown Galveston into a Victorian wonderland, complete with costumes, street performers, and themed vendors. Throughout the holiday season, the city also hosts the Festival of Lights at Moody Gardens, featuring more than a million lights, holiday films, and a train ride through the beautiful displays.
Must-Do Experience: Dress in Victorian attire and join the fun at Dickens on the Strand, or take a ride on the Polar Express Train at the Galveston Railroad Museum.
5. Waco: A Silobration of Holiday Cheer
Home to the famous Magnolia Market, Waco becomes a festive wonderland during the holidays. The Silos at Magnolia are adorned with twinkling lights, offering a beautiful backdrop for holiday shopping, photos, and family fun. Waco also hosts the Waco Wonderland, a holiday celebration in downtown Waco featuring a Ferris wheel, ice skating, live entertainment, and visits from Santa.
Must-Do Experience: Take a walk through Magnolia Market at the Silos to experience the beautiful decorations and grab a hot chocolate from the on-site vendors.
6. New Braunfels: Christmas by the Comal
New Braunfels is another Texas town that embraces its German roots during the holidays. The Santa’s Ranch light park features over 1.5 million lights and animated displays. In downtown New Braunfels, you can visit the Christmas Market, filled with handcrafted gifts and festive foods. The annual Gruene Christmas Market Days offers more holiday shopping and a chance to visit with Cowboy Kringle, a Texas-style Santa.
Must-Do Experience: Experience Wassailfest, where local businesses serve up hot wassail and compete for the title of best recipe—it’s the perfect way to warm up on a cold winter night.
7. Jefferson: Enchanting Holiday Season
For a small-town Christmas full of charm, head to Jefferson. Known as the “City of Spirits,” Jefferson turns into a festive wonderland each December with its Christmas Express Train ride and historic home tours. The Annual Candlelight Tour of Homes offers a glimpse into the beautifully decorated historic houses, complete with guides in period costumes, while downtown Jefferson is filled with holiday decor and horse-drawn carriage rides.
Must-Do Experience: Hop aboard the Christmas Express Train for a journey through the twinkling lights and scenic beauty of this East Texas town.
8. Austin: Trail of Lights at Zilker Park
Austin may be known for its live music and food scene, but it’s also home to the stunning Trail of Lights at Zilker Park. This beloved tradition draws thousands of visitors each year to walk through dazzling light displays, enjoy live performances, and take photos with Santa. The Downtown Holiday Stroll also brings festive cheer to the heart of Austin, with carol singing and holiday markets.
Must-Do Experience: Spin under the Zilker Holiday Tree, a 155-foot-tall tree made from over 3,000 lights, and enjoy food from local vendors while listening to live music.
9. Marble Falls: Walkway of Lights
Marble Falls is home to the Walkway of Lights, a free event that features over two million lights along Lake Marble Falls. The light displays are synchronized to music, creating a mesmerizing experience for all ages. The charming downtown area is also worth exploring, with festive decor and plenty of local shops to find the perfect holiday gifts.
Must-Do Experience: Walk through the lighted path at Lakeside Park and take in the magical views of the lights reflecting off the lake, then warm up with a cup of cocoa from a nearby cafe.
10. College Station: Santa’s Wonderland
Located just outside College Station, Santa’s Wonderland is the largest Christmas attraction in Texas. With millions of lights, a Texas-sized gingerbread village, and plenty of activities like ice skating, carriage rides, and a petting zoo, Santa’s Wonderland is a must-visit for families. The park also features live music, festive food, and an opportunity to visit with Santa Claus himself.
Must-Do Experience: Take a hayride tour through the millions of lights that make up Santa’s Wonderland, and enjoy the festive sights and sounds of this iconic Texas attraction.
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